Luther Vandross Recalled Being Discovered by David Bowie, Said He Was the Forgotten Fourth Harlette for Bette Midler in Old Clip

In a recently surfaced excerpt from ‘The Rosie O’Donnell Show,’ celebrated Grammy-winning artist Luther Vandross opened up about his early career experiences, specifically his time performing as a back-up singer for the iconic Bette Midler. Although he is widely known for his own remarkable music career, Vandross revealed that his first significant roles often left him in the shadows.

In the clip, Vandross recounts being a part of Midler’s ensemble, the Harlettes, but expressed a sense of being overlooked throughout his involvement. He was referred to as the “fourth Harlette” and often performed hidden from view due to his immense shyness. The Harlettes, a renowned group of back-up singers, featured other notable talents including Katey Sagal and Jenifer Lewis, which complicates Vandross’s narrative of feeling unrecognised.

The conversation delved deeper when Vandross credited the legendary David Bowie for helping him break into the industry. During a studio session for Bowie’s ‘Young Americans’ album in 1974, Vandross inadvertently caught Bowie’s attention while singing. “I was on the couch visiting a guitar player I had gone to school with, Carlos Alomar. David overheard me,” Vandross explained. He vividly recalled Bowie’s encouraging response: “Oh, that sounds great, put it on the record.” This moment proved instrumental in Vandross’s career trajectory.

Bowie’s support did not stop there; he subsequently introduced Vandross to Bette Midler, a moment Vandross remembered fondly. He recalled watching one of Midler’s television performances where she listed her Harlettes, feeling a mix of pride and disappointment as his name was omitted. “She went through the list, and I’m thinking, ‘Okay, come on, come on’ … and she never mentioned that I was always the fourth Harlette,” he said, illustrating his frustration.

As O’Donnell chimed in, she confessed that while she had seen Midler live, she had never noticed Vandross in the background. Vandross explained the reason for his obscurity, noting, “You never saw me because I was really shy and used to stand behind a curtain with a microphone and a monitor and a music stand.” This admission highlights how his shyness significantly impacted his early public performances.

The Harlettes were renowned for their harmonies and stage presence, featuring a number of talents who went on to have their own successful careers. Alongside Vandross and Sagal, other members included Paulette McWilliams, Jenifer Lewis, Sharon Redd, and Melissa Manchester among others, showcasing the group’s impressive alumni.

Vandross’s career eventually blossomed into one of the most celebrated in music history, with hits such as “Never Too Much” and “Here and Now”. His voice and style left an indelible mark on the music industry, transforming him from a shy back-up singer into a leading star. Tragically, this vibrant artist passed away on July 1, 2005, at the age of 54, but his legacy continues to resonate with fans globally.

The resurfacing of this clip serves as a poignant reminder of Vandross’s journey in the music world, revealing both the struggles of an emerging artist and the significant influences along the way. His story remains an inspirational testament to talent, perseverance, and the sometimes hidden journey towards success.