I remember dancing to Ray Charles in my parents’ living room as a child. Hearing about his personal struggles reminds me that even legends are human.
When I raised my own kids in the 80s, Luther Vandross was always playing in our home. His voice carried so much soul, and that’s still what I choose to hold on to.
My husband and I went to see Lionel Richie live on our 10th anniversary. Despite the scandals, his music still brings back that night of joy for us.
I taught high school music for 30 years, and I often told my students that artists can be flawed but their art can still inspire. This video really brought that lesson home.
Hearing about Whitney and Bobby’s chaos reminded me of how fragile love can be. My own marriage wasn’t perfect either, but we fought for 40 years together.
Aretha Franklin’s songs played at my daughter’s wedding. No matter the rumors, “Respect” will always be tied to that happy memory for my family.
I grew up in Detroit, where Motown shaped our culture. Marvin Gaye’s music carried us through hard times, and that’s what I choose to remember.
My grandchildren don’t know these artists’ private lives, but they know their songs because I play them on long car rides. That’s how the legacy continues.
Life has shown me that talent and personal choices don’t always line up. What matters to me at this age is the gift they left through music.
This video reminded me that we all carry cracks and mistakes. But the beauty of these R&B legends is that their voices still give us hope, even with the flaws.