I couldn’t think of a better song or better way to wrap up our AOM song of the day series.

“Excuse me Miss. What’s your name…” The song “Take You Out” proved Luther Vandross was going to transition quite nicely into the new millennium and be fresh and current yet classic all at the same time. From the 2000 album Luther Vandross.

Check out the bonus video below of Luther performing “Take You Out” live.

I won’t tell… we’re all “Grown” here :)

We’re going to get things going this morning with another often overlooked classic from AOM! Special shout to Steve Flemming on the FB site for putting this on the radar for some shine. Happy Monday!

Merry Christmas everyone!  Today focus on what you do have, as opposed to focusing on what you do not have.

Bonus Live Version with Chaka Khan:

By now, you’ve probably guessed that Luther should have been crowned the music industry’s official cover slayer, because he knew how to put his foot into a song remake. Guess what? “Love Won’t Let Me Wait” is also a cover. It was originally released by former Delfonic’s member Major Harris in 1975. “Love Won’t Let Me Wait” appeared on Luther’s full length cd entitled “Any Love”.

Let’s be honest. From the lyrics to the arrangement to the melody, “Love Won’t Let Me Wait” is a beautiful song. Take all of that beauty and add Luther Vandross’ signature runs and ad libs, and you have a quiet storm classic.

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I’ve always been enamored with this particular song from Luther due to its transparency and real emotion. If you’re a kid, this song may sound like a cool tune. Fast forward a few years and this song may start talking to you in an applicable way.  The theme of wanting or finding love is a subject we all can relate to whether you be a hopeless romantic or a philanthropistic player. Luther, as always, sings this song with much conviction and may have been preaching his own testimony as well. If you really look at the lyrics you may find a bit of Luther’s diary in this song.

I speak to myself sometimes, and I say, “Oh my,
In a lot of ways, you’re a lucky guy and
Now all you need is a chance to try any love”

In my heart there’s a need to shout
Dyin’, screamin’, cryin’ let me out
Are all those feelings that want to touch any love?

What a world for the lonely guy
Sometimes I feel I’m gonna lose my mind
Can anybody tell me just where to find any love?

- Any Love, Luther Vandross & Marcus Miller, 1988

“Anyone Who Had A Heart” was originally recorded by Dionne Warwick in 1963 and has been subsequently covered by other artists over time, but there is something about Luther’s version… He had a way of breaking down a song and building it back up again. “Anyone Who Had A Heart” from the album Give Me The Reason.