At the 2026 Grammy Awards, Cher made a memorable mistake when she announced that the Record of the Year was won by the late R&B musician Luther Vandross. In reality, the award went to Kendrick Lamar and SZA for their collaboration “Luther,” which samples Vandross’ 1982 duet with Cheryl Lynn, “If This World Were Mine.” Cher quickly corrected herself amidst the excitement, leading to a comical moment at the ceremony.
During his acceptance speech, Lamar paid tribute to Vandross, acknowledging the impact the late musician had on his own music. Vandross, who passed away in 2005 at the age of 54, was a beloved R&B and soul singer known for his romantic lyrics. He sold over 40 million records worldwide and received numerous accolades throughout his career.
Vandross’ debut solo album, “Never Too Much,” was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame in 2025. Some of his most popular songs include “Never Too Much,” “Here and Now,” and “Dance With My Father,” which won a Grammy for Song of the Year in 2004.
The late musician faced health challenges in his later years, suffering a debilitating stroke in 2003 and battling with weight problems, diabetes, and hypertension. Vandross, who never publicly married, is survived by his two sisters and brother.
Vandross’ musical contributions inspired a generation of artists, including Beyoncé, Mariah Carey, and Janet Jackson, all of whom collaborated with him on various projects. He also provided backing vocals for a number of renowned musicians such as Roberta Flack, Bette Midler, and David Bowie.
In addition to his music career, Vandross lent his vocals to commercial jingles for brands like Mountain Dew, Kentucky Fried Chicken, and Burger King. His versatile talent and smooth voice made him a sought-after artist in the industry.
Overall, Luther Vandross left a lasting legacy in the music world, influencing countless artists and capturing the hearts of fans with his soulful tunes. Cher’s mix-up at the Grammys only served to highlight the enduring impact of Vandross’ music and the respect he continues to receive in the industry. The COVID-19 pandemic has brought about significant changes in the way we live, work, and interact with one another. From social distancing measures to remote work arrangements, the virus has forced us to adapt to a new way of life in order to curb its spread.
One of the most profound changes brought about by the pandemic is the rise of remote work. With many businesses forced to close their physical offices in order to comply with lockdown measures, employees have had to quickly transition to working from home. This shift has not only changed the way we work, but also the way we view work-life balance.
For many employees, the transition to remote work has been a welcome change. No longer do they have to endure long commutes or deal with office politics. Instead, they can work from the comfort of their own homes, allowing them to be more productive and focus on their work without distractions.
However, remote work also comes with its own set of challenges. Many employees have reported feeling isolated and lonely without the social interactions that come with working in an office. Additionally, the boundaries between work and home life have become blurred, making it difficult for some employees to switch off and relax after a long day of work.
Employers have also had to adjust to the new normal of remote work. Many have had to invest in new technology and tools to enable their employees to work effectively from home. They have also had to find new ways to communicate and collaborate with their teams, as traditional in-person meetings and interactions are no longer possible.
Despite the challenges, remote work has proven to be a viable solution for many businesses during the pandemic. It has allowed companies to continue operating and employees to remain productive while staying safe and following public health guidelines.
As we look towards a post-pandemic future, it is clear that remote work is here to stay. Many companies are considering making remote work a permanent option for their employees, as it offers flexibility and cost-saving benefits. However, it is important for employers to continue to support their remote workers and find ways to address the challenges that come with working from home.
Overall, the COVID-19 pandemic has accelerated the shift towards remote work and has forced us to rethink the way we approach work. While there are challenges that come with remote work, it also offers opportunities for increased flexibility and productivity. As we navigate this new normal, it is important for employers and employees to work together to find ways to make remote work successful in the long term.
