Luther Vandross – Dance With My Father
A classic by all standards, Luther Vandross’ hit song “Dance With My Father” launched him into the industry. The song, which was certified Gold by the RIAA, was written based on his personal experience.
The lyrics, co-written by Richard Max, recalled childhood memories of Luther Vandross and his father who he saw several times dancing with his mother. Irrespective of the lack of promotion due to Vandross’ illness at the time, the song sold itself and became the most requested song of all time.
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His father died due to complications with diabetes. According to co-writer, Max, writing the song was emotional for Vandross because it is “a subject matter [Vandross] hadn’t written before”
His mother, Mary Ida, said, “I was amazed at how well Luther remembered his father, how we used to dance and sing in the house. I was so surprised that at 7 1/2 years of age, he could remember what a happy household we had.”
