Madonna is currently on her Celebration tour, and when she performs her 1986 song “Live To Tell,” about staying strong during difficult times, she flashes a montage of artists who died of AIDS. The photos include Keith Haring, Herb Ritts, Freddie Mercury, and until recently Luther Vandross — until his estate asked that he be removed from the tribute.
“Luther Vandross passed away in 2005 due to complications from a stroke suffered two years earlier,” a statement from his rep reads. “While we appreciate Madonna’s recognition of those lives lost to AIDS, Luther was NEVER diagnosed with AIDS or the HIV Virus. We’re not sure where she or her production team received false medical information claiming otherwise. We’re currently in contact with her management to remove Luther Vandross from the tribute.”