Free Republic

MORRIS PLAINS, N.J. -- From a Picasso charcoal drawing to diamond watches, mink coats and crystal vases, Luther Vandross lived large. Fans of the legendary singer, who died in 2005 at 54, will have a chance to bid on more than 1,000 items that offer a glimpse into his superstar existence. On Dec. 5-6, his estate will auction just about everything: his handwritten lyrics to "Love Forgot"; the army green thermoses from which he sipped hot tea during his concerts; designer loafers and boots; Lalique crystal vases, glasses and doorknobs. The items come from his former homes in Beverly Hills,...

R&B Crooner Luther Vandross Dies at 54 AP NEW YORK - Grammy award winner Luther Vandross, whose deep, lush voice on such hits as "Here and Now" and "Any Love" sold more than 25 million albums while providing the romantic backdrop for millions of couples worldwide, died Friday. He was 54. Vandross died at John F. Kennedy Medical Center in Edison, N.J., said hospital spokesman Rob Cavanaugh. He did not release the cause of death but said in a statement that Vandross "never really recovered from" a stroke two years ago.

<p>When the National Collegiate Athletic Association's men's basketball tournament ends Monday night, CBS, as it has for the past 16 seasons, will end its broadcast of the final with tournament highlights set to the song "One Shining Moment."</p> <p>Written on the back of a napkin by a virtual unknown, the wholesome song hasn't appeared on the Billboard charts, nor has it ever been played on the radio as far as anyone knows. A compact-disk single has barely sold 1,000 copies. But with the exception of a couple of college fight songs to which nobody knows the words, "One Shining Moment" is arguably the most famous song in sports.</p>