Luther Vandross Documentary: Did We Need the Drama?

Luther Vandross Documentary: Did We Need the Drama?

The Luther Vandross documentary has finally landed, and honey, the tea is piping hot—but not necessarily in the best way. I watched a video by the one and only Funky Dineva on YouTube, and let’s just say they didn’t hold back. Apparently, the filmmakers decided to dedicate an entire segment to Luther Vandross’s sexuality. Now, was that necessary? Some of us are side-eyeing Jamie Foxx, who owns the rights to this documentary, wondering why that had to be the focus when there’s so much more to Luther’s legacy.

First of all, let’s address the elephant in the room: Luther Vandross’s sexuality has always been a whispered “best-kept secret.” And for many, that’s where it should have stayed. Why? Because in a world where LGBTQ+ folks are still fighting for basic respect, tearing open the pages of someone’s private life posthumously feels… messy. And you know Jamie Foxx is no stranger to the mess. Don’t get me wrong, Jamie’s a talented guy, but does he need to dip his hands in every pot of drama?

Here’s where it gets shady. One of the guests in the documentary reportedly said they’re “taking Luther’s stand now.” Excuse me? Taking his stand on what? Luther wasn’t out here waving a flag or writing op-eds about his personal life—he was giving us timeless music. So why drag his name into this? His ballads like Dance With My Father and Never Too Much didn’t need a sexuality disclaimer to touch hearts and top charts. The people loved Luther for his voice, his artistry, and his ability to make us feel something, not for who he was (or wasn’t) dating.

Could they have handled it better? Absolutely. Imagine if they had focused on his incredible musical career, his influence on R&B, and the way he inspired generations of singers. Instead, they chose to delve into his private life—a choice that feels more exploitative than enlightening. Did we really need to discuss who Luther loved, or could we have just loved him for who he was?

And let’s be real: why are we still acting like sexuality is the most interesting thing about someone’s life? Do we demand this level of scrutiny from straight artists? Doubt it.

Maybe they’ll get it right in the next documentary (if there is one). Until then, we’re left with a project that feels like it missed the mark. The question is: Did Luther’s fans—and the man himself—deserve better? What’s your take? Let me know in the comments, and don’t hold back—because neither will I.

Messily yours,

Spencer