Song and prayer poured out of the Covenant Avenue Baptist church on Thursday May 29th, as hundreds gathered to pray for music legends Luther Vandross and Barry White. Both r&b icons, recently suffered strokes and remain hospitalized.

The vigil was hosted by WRKS KISS FM, a station that truly embodies the smooth sensuality of their timeless classics. “Luther and Barry have been staples on our station since its inception,” says Toya Beasley, Program Director of WRKS. “Their music defines our station. We love them and want them to know their New York family is praying for their full and speedy recovery.” KISS “Wake-Up Club” personalities Jeff Foxx, Shaila, Talent and Bob Slade were present as well as notable personage like Cissy Houston, Melba Moore, and Ashford. and Simpson.

The 145th street establishment, filled to capacity by 7pm, erupted in harmonious orison for the two men who devoted their talents to uplifting their fans and fueling the human spirit through song. “They have dedicated their lives to filling our hearts with music and they have made plenty of changes in our lives too,” said Pinkney Parthanis of Mt. Vernon. The immense outpour of support and love was amazing. The deep connection that the fans have with both Luther and Barry is undeniable. That connection radiated in their mere presence at the night of prayer as well as their passionate and unified wishes for their full and speedy recovery. Cynthia Whitmore of Harlem who was among the many to attend the service said, “ They are a part of our generation, we grew with their music, they’re like family.”

Their music has served as the soundtrack to countless first loves, romances, passionate moments of love and lust, heartbreak, and devotion. Their odes to the deep, tender, and unavoidable feelings between people have inspired relationships, marriages, and yes__ babies. Year after year people continue to live, love, and draw strength from their music. George Ellington of the Bronx described Luther and Barry as, “legends throughout the world.” “ They made a tremendous impact on my life and it was imperative that I be here tonight. It’s about support, ” said Ellington, and support is exactly what they are getting from all of us here at HarlemLIVE as well as fans world wide.