A new documentary on late music legend Luther Vandross is heading into production.
The film will center on the Grammy-winning artist’s global rise and his personal struggles.
Award-winning filmmaker Dawn Porter, who directed John Lewis: Good Trouble, is helming the doc.
“Like so many, I have always loved Luther’s music, but I had no idea of the breadth and scope of his artistry. I think people will be surprised at how much he accomplished in his tragically short life,” Porter said in a statement to The Hollywood Reporter. “It is a joy to be able to share his true story.”
The film is being made in partnership with the singer-songwriter’s estate and will include access to his “never-before-seen personal archive.”
Related Story: ‘John Lewis: Good Trouble’ Named Top Doc at NAACP Image Awards
Oscar winners Colin Firth and Jamie Foxx are producing the documentary, according to THR.
“Luther is one of our GOATs,” Foxx said in a statement. “He’s one of the greatest singers in the history of music. It is truly an honor to be a part of the team to help bring this incredible story to the masses.”
Vandross struggled with weight and health issues and died in 2005, two years after suffering a debilitating stroke. He was 54 years old.
The music icon was known for his silky voice and his many hits, including “Never Too Much,” “A House Is Not a Home,” “Here and Now,” and “Dance with My Father.”
The New York native got his big after meeting David Bowie at a recording studio in the 1970s. Vandross went on to sing backup for Bowie and later worked as his opening act. Vandross also sang backup for Bette Midler and Barbra Streisand.
“Bowie introduced me to Bette Midler and Bette had me sing background for her on her album Songs Are An Expression of Things In The Night. Then word of mouth started getting around,” Vandross told The New Black magazine in a 1982 interview.
When record companies refused to sign Vandross to a deal, he self-produced his 1981 debut solo album Never Too Much, and wrote most of the songs.
The album reached No. 1 on the R&B charts and sold more than 2 million copies.
During his lifetime, Vandross sold over 40 million albums worldwide and won eight Grammys.
A release date for the documentary on his life will be announced later.
