Cheryl Lynn & Luther Vandross, If This World Were Mine | Dazzling Duets

In the 10th edition of Dazzling Duets (2025), Cheryl Lynn and Luther Vandross collaborate on “If This World Were Mine.” 

Sometimes, two is better than one! That is the case when it comes to Dazzling Duets! On Dazzling Duets, we highlight ear-catching songs performed by two artists collaborating. These duets can be from any musical style, making Dazzling Duets a flexible, versatile column on The Musical Hype. In the 10^th edition of Dazzling Duets (2025), Cheryl Lynn and Luther Vandross collaborate on “If This World Were Mine”. Let the dazzle begin!

“If this world were mine / I’d give you anything.” Cheryl Lynn (b. 1957) and Luther Vandross (1951 – 2025) made a formidable duo on “If This World Were Mine”. Two exceptional voices. “If This World Were Mine” is the eighth track from Lynn’s 1982 album, Instant Love.  There is also a briefer, single version that concludes Instant Love. “Mine” also appears on the 1989 Vandross compilation, The Best of Luther Vandross The Best of Love.  Written by a musical icon, Marvin Gaye, the duet was originally released by Gaye and Tammi Terrell in 1967. Shockingly, the Lynn/Vandross version of the duet was NOT a pop hit. It performed sensationally on the R&B charts, peaking at number four.

Luther Vandross sets the tone, singing the first verse and refrain/chorus.  Slower than the original, Luther is in no rush. “If this world were mine / I’d give you the flowers, the birds, and the bees,” he sings, and continues, “And with your love beside me / That would be all I need.” Aww, the feels! His voice is angelic! Heavenly! Cheryl Lynn brings the heat in the second verse, asserting, “If this world were mine / I would make you a king / With wealth untold / You could have anything.” Like Luther, her instrument is stunning with her nuanced, sultry delivery. After killing it separately, for the remainder of the song, they trade lines or sing together.  In the bridge, Luther informs Cheryl, “Oh, baby, you’re my inspiration / And there’s no hesitation.” She goes on to say, “Oh, baby, you are my consolation / And I feel so much sensation / When I’m in your arms / When you squeeze me.” Accompanied by a refined, romantic instrumental, Cheryl and Luther wow on their dynamic, unforgettable cover of “If This World Were Mine”. Notably, Kendrick Lamar and SZA sampled this gem on their dominant number one hit, “Luther”, which appeared on Lamar’s fantastic 2024 album, GNX.