They Was Jammin’! Johnny Gill’s Luther Tribute Turns Star-Studded Cookout Into A Vibe | WATCH & Groove
Johnny Gill Sings Luther Vandross at the Ultimate R&B Cookout
*Imagine pulling up to a cookout and Johnny Gill is on the mic belting out Luther Vandross’ “Never Too Much”—yes, that happened. Social media erupted when X users posted videos of Gill singing his heart out at what might be the most Black excellence-filled (Memorial Day) barbecue of the year.
Gill, known for hits like “My, My, My,” didn’t just sing—he channeled the spirit of Luther. It wasn’t karaoke; it was an experience. One X user declared, “This cookout altered my nostalgic brain chemistry.” Another simply wrote, “Johnny Gill is the only person allowed to touch Luther. Period.”
Cedric the Entertainer, Judge Mathis, Jeffrey Osborne and Others Were There Too
This wasn’t just a backyard hangout—it was a grown & soulful Avengers assembly. Attendees included Cedric the Entertainer, Jazze Pha, Jeffrey Osborne, Kenny Lattimore, Anthony Anderson, Flex Alexander, and even Judge Mathis.
Yes, Judge Mathis. You know it’s real when you’re eating ribs next to a federal judge and Jeffrey Osborne is harmonizing in the background.
- Cedric vibing to the music like it’s 1999
- Judge Mathis giving side-eye approval from his lawn chair
- Kenny Lattimore looking like he might break into a setlist next
- Anthony Anderson playing the unofficial hype man
It was the kind of lineup that makes you text your cousins: “Why weren’t we invited?”
Johnny Gill was spotted singing Luther Vandross’s song “Never Too Much” at a cookout that included guests such as Cedric the Entertainer, Jeffrey Osborne, Jazze Pha, Judge Mathis, Kenny Lattimore, and actor Anthony Anderson. pic.twitter.com/XqGO1QV5y5
— The Art Of Dialogue (@ArtOfDialogue_) May 28, 2025
X Users Lose Their Minds (and Chill)
Social media couldn’t get enough. One post said, “This is what reparations should look like.” Another joked, “I just know the potato salad had no raisins, and the playlist was elite.”
Fans also noted how Gill’s rendition of “Never Too Much” hit different—part nostalgia, part vocal masterclass, and part spiritual experience. “Johnny Gill’s throat blessed that grill,” one user quipped. Others pointed out the Luther comparisons: “He’s not imitating. He’s testifying.”
Where Was This? Don’t Worry, We’re All Bitter We Missed It
The exact date and address of the cookout remain a mystery, but sources say it took place in late May 2025. Whether it was in LA, Atlanta, or some undisclosed R&B utopia, the vibes were clearly immaculate. And let’s be honest: the only way this event could’ve been more iconic is if Frankie Beverly showed up in a white linen suit to close it out.
Why Johnny Gill and Luther Still Hit So Hard
Johnny Gill’s vocal power has always drawn comparisons to Luther Vandross—and not lightly. Fans online noted how Gill is one of the few artists who can pay tribute to Luther without falling flat. His ability to blend control, emotion, and range made his performance more than just nostalgic—it was healing.
“It wasn’t just singing,” one post read. “It was communion.” If that sounds dramatic, you’ve clearly never been to a cookout where Johnny Gill hits a falsetto while someone flips a ribeye.
We Need This Cookout Every Year. No Notes.
Between the elite guest list, legendary vocals, and social media buzz, this cookout has set the new standard for Black celebrity gatherings.
Forget red carpets—give us soul, laughter, and someone’s uncle on the grill with Judge Mathis nearby.
Until next time, we’ll be watching reruns of the footage and trying to replicate the playlist. If anyone finds the potato salad recipe, please share with the class.
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