*Late last month, the Black Music Action Coalition (BMAC) presented the exclusive screening of “Luther: Never Too Much.”
This special event began the 2024 BET Awards Week in LA, gathering influential figures from the music industry for an unforgettable evening.
Willie “Prophet” Stiggers, BMAC’s Co-founder and CEO, opened the screening with an address to the audience praising Luther Vandross and the work BMAC is doing to push the legacy of Black music artists.
“One of the missions of the Black Music Coalition, in addition to all of the work that we do, is to ensure that the legacies of Black artists are protected and carried on, so we were honored to partner with the Luther Vandross Foundation.”
Directed by Dawn Porter, ‘Luther: Never Too Much’ brings together a compelling narrative of Luther Vandross’ life and legacy through amazing performances and intimate recording sessions.
Onscreen appearances by icons like Jamie Foxx, Mariah Carey, Richard Marx, and Patti LaBelle highlighted the remarkable journey of the legendary musical icon, showcasing both his musical triumphs and personal challenges.
The screening at CAA’s Ray Kurtzman Theater drew a distinguished audience, including influential executives such as Sylvia Rhone, Chairwoman and CEO of Epic Records, and Jeff Harleston, EVP of Business and Legal Affairs at UMG.
Following the screening, attendees were treated to a panel discussion that explored the making of the documentary and the Luther Vandross Foundation grant partnership with BMAC, which will provide financial scholarships to students attending HBCUs.
Moderated by Willie “Prophet” Stiggers, the panel featured Brenda Shields, President of the Luther Vandross Foundation, and Phil Thornton, Executive Producer of the documentary. Their discussion gave insight into the influence of Luther Vandross on music and culture, emphasizing his contributions and the ongoing efforts to preserve his legacy.
“Everybody [in the cast] just wanted to celebrate Luther, and that’s the heart and spirit of this project. I’m just honored to be a part of it and glad that his family is proud… I’m still speechless. Every time I watch this, I get emotional,” said Phil Thornton when speaking on the dynamic celebrity features in the film.
David Gottlieb, Manager of the Luther Vandross Estate, expressed gratitude for BMAC’s steadfast support and commitment to honoring Vandross’ legacy through the screening and beyond.
Willie “Prophet” Stiggers echoed this sentiment, highlighting the documentary’s power to resonate deeply with audiences by revealing Vandross’ vulnerabilities and artistic brilliance.
The event not only celebrated Luther Vandross’ musical genius but also served as a reminder of the profound impact BMAC has on the culture. As BET Awards Week continues, the screening of ‘Luther: Never Too Much’ reaffirms the importance of Black music and the need to celebrate our musical icons while they are still here to appreciate it.
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