So Amazing: An All-Star Tribute to Luther Vandross

That Luther Vandross left behind multiple generations’ worth of fans is illustrated by So Amazing, a welcome tribute to his quarter-century-plus career. Artists from Patti LaBelle, Elton John, and Babyface to Usher and Alicia Keys offer mostly faithful versions of many of the singer’s signature numbers. Aretha Franklin, one of Vandross’ ultimate inspirations (and a collaborator), lends an octave-sweeping take on “A House is Not a Home” that he would have applauded; the man himself makes an electrifying appearance on John’s remake of “Anyone Who Had a Heart.” With many of these songs borrowed in their turn from other artists’ catalogs, this album also serves as a nod to Luther’s deep affection for the roots of his music. Even after his death, those roots continue to feed a blossoming tree.