Vandross emerged in the late 1970s and gained popularity during the 1980s and 1990s. His soulful voice, smooth delivery, and ability to convey emotions through his singing made him a standout artist. However, many other singers before him had already left an indelible mark on the music world with their incredible vocal talents.
Here are a few examples of exceptional vocalists who preceded Luther Vandross:
1. Frank Sinatra (1915-1998):
- Known as "The Voice," Sinatra was renowned for his smooth, velvety vocals and impeccable phrasing.
- His crooning style influenced generations of singers.
- Sinatra's hits include classics like "My Way," "Fly Me to the Moon," and "New York, New York."
2. Ella Fitzgerald (1917-1996):
- Dubbed "The First Lady of Song," Ella Fitzgerald was a jazz icon with an unmistakable voice.
- Her scat singing and vocal agility made her one of the most influential jazz vocalists.
- Fitzgerald's iconic songs include "Summertime," "Cheek to Cheek," and "A-Tisket, A-Tasket."
3. Nat King Cole (1919-1965):
- Cole's smooth, velvety vocals and emotive delivery made him a prominent figure in jazz and pop music.
- His signature songs include "Unforgettable," "Mona Lisa," and "Smile."
- Cole's effortless singing style paved the way for many future artists.
4. Aretha Franklin (1942-2018):
- Often called "The Queen of Soul," Aretha Franklin possessed a powerful, soulful voice.
- Her commanding vocals elevated her songs to iconic status.
- Franklin's hits include timeless tracks like "Respect," "(You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman," and "Think."
5. Stevie Wonder (born 1950):
- Wonder is a multi-talented singer, songwriter, and producer.
- Blind since childhood, he overcame challenges and became a musical prodigy.
- Wonder's soulful vocals and innovative songwriting made him a global superstar.
- His songs include classics such as "Superstition," "I Just Called to Say I Love You," and "Signed, Sealed, Delivered (I'm Yours)."
These examples illustrate the rich tapestry of vocal talent that existed before Luther Vandross. While he undeniably made a significant impact on music, his contributions should be viewed in the context of the wider history of exceptional singers who graced the music scene before him.