Maureen Mahon makes the argument that black women backup singers made it possible for white mail rock stars to sing in new ways. She uses–and celebrates–the example of his song “Young Americans” (1975). Listen to his song “Rebel Rebel” (1974). How are his vocals different? How might the backup singers make the difference possible?

In this live performance, the backup singers are both male and female. As Mahon, points out, one of them–Luther Vandross–would go on to become a legendary recording artist.