Luther Vandross (1951-2005): His timeless music will echo through the ages.

Grammy-winning soul singer and songwriter Luther Vandross, who suffered a serious stroke two years ago as he was about to relaunch his career, died on Friday (July 1) in a New Jersey hospital, officials said. He was 54.

Vandross was considered the premier soul balladeer of his generation, with a silky voice that seduced millions of fans and won over collaborators such as David Bowie and Aretha Franklin.