Thats What Friends Are For

Dionne Warwick was one of the most high in his pantheon. When one surveys her Sixties output, it is undeniable: Ms. Warwick was a stylist of the highest order. She made fluff sound substantial, and gave heft and height to the most pedestrian of songs. An enthralled Luther built his career based on a foundation of craft inspired by people like Ms. Warwick and in later years reached back to offer a number of them a second wind when Luther re-recorded their material and even did duets or provided production work for some of them. He was not only talented, Luther was generous.
Over the years he had hit on top of hits. He seemed to keep on going and artistically growing. He had become an institution. Two years ago I saw him at the Essence festival and was prepared to endure a nostalgia act,

but no, once again he put on a show—not quite as dramatic as a third of a century earlier at the Saenger Theatre, but a good show none the less.

Near the end of a stellar career, Luther produced “Dance With My Father,” thereby ensuring that he would be remembered as far beyond a simple balladeer. And now he’s gone. You just never know, Thats What Friends Are For.
While most of us recall Luther as a matinee idol, he also was legendary as a club icon. And though this live version of “A House Is Not A Home” is right-on Luther to the nth degree, it would not be fair to his legacy if we didn’t include a club track. So check out “Are You Using Me,” a 1998 Masters At Work mix that is probably new news to some of Luther’s old fans.