Everyone has something that they do well. Everyone stands out in some way. Everyone has an outstanding skill in one area or another. This skill may be natural, or it may require practice and instruction. Often the skill is a combination of those things.
Whitney Houston had a gifted singing voice. When she sang at New Hope Baptist Church in Newark, New Jersey, the parishioners realized that she had a remarkable voice.
Houston's mother, Cissy Houston, realized that her daughter had a special voice. Cissy Houston trained Whitney and took her to recording sessions that she was involved in. Cissy Houston was a part of a background group known as "Sweet Inspirations." The group sang back up for multiple recording artists. Whitney Houston attended these sessions and learned about the record business. By the time Whitney Houston was 17, she was offered recording contracts, which her mother turned down because Whitney was too young. Finally, when Whitney Houston was 20, she was signed to a national recording contract.
Due to mistakes she made in her lifestyle, Whitney Houston's voice declined in her 30's. She was never able to regain the strength and range of her voice. While working with voice coach Gary Catona, Houston was able to regain about 80% of her voice. While she never regained her full singing range, her desire to be a good singer remained strong.
When discussing Houston's vocal style, Guthrie P. Ramsey says "Houston possessed the perfect vibrato. This effect was facilitated by her deceivingly effortless diaphragmic support." Her vibrato allowed her to vary her pitch. She would routinely vary the pitch of a note.
Ramsey continues by saying "Houston was famous for having a very wide range. Some of her songs spanned quite a bit of vocal territory, from alto to the highest soprano." Her vocal range made her voice easy to listen to. Her vocal dexterity added a different layer to her music. Her ability to reach many different notes and pitches helped make her music soulful. Her style was a combination of her natural talent, hard work and her mother's tutelage and support. In any event, her voice was one of the most memorable in the history of popular music.
Ramsey points out that "Houston seemingly had no natural break between the high and low registers of her instrument.: Houston was able to move between registers without experiencing a snapping or cracking sound in her voice. She seemed to transition from high to low notes seamlessly. This helped make her voice smooth and clear.
Lauren Everett points out that Whitney Houston had the skill of "melisma." Everett says "An early 'I' in Whitney Houston's "I Will Always Love You" takes nearly six seconds to sing. In those seconds the former gospel singer turned pop star packs a series of different notes into the single syllable. This technique is repeated throughout the song, most pronouncing on every 'I' and 'You.' The vocal technique is called "melisma", and it has inspired a host of imitators.' Everett states that other singers practiced this technique before Houston, but her use of it made it more popular with other singers.
Everett observes that "In order to achieve Houston's vocal acrobatics it takes a combination of arduous training and natural talent." Houston was blessed with a special singing voice that she developed through hard work and training. Of course, much of the training came from her mother.
While Houston had this skill, she did not overuse it. Everitt says "In a climate of reality shows ripe with 'over singing', it's easy to appreciate Houston's singing ability to save "melisma" for just the right moment." In addition to singing talent, Houston showed good musical judgement. She understood how to utilize her voice.
Carrie Grant says "She never overhang, and people, therefore, were touched and moved by the emotion and the story of that song. She's the singer that would give you goosebumps." Houston had a powerful impact upon millions of listeners because of her talent, emotion and sound musical judgement. She was simply meant to be a singer.
In 1983, Whitney Houston gave one of her first interviews on the "Merve Griffin Show." After the interview, Houston and her mother sang a medley of Aretha Franklin songs. The talents of both women were highlighted during the performance. Both voices were clear and dynamic. They harmonized their voices well, and gave an outstanding performance. At times, Cissy Houston sang background vocals as Whitney Houston sang lead. At other times, they harmonized their voices and sang the same parts. Their performance was strong and entertaining. It was easy to notice her mother's influence on Whitney's singing.
In 1984, Whitney Houston gave a national interview on "Entertainment Tonight." She recounted how she grew up around music and had been recording in the studio since she was 12. She recounted in the interview that her mother and her aunt Dione Warwick had a strong musical influence on her. Houston said "I am honored to be associated with those two ladies. They give me so much and everything I have today, I got from those two ladies." She told her mother at a young age that she wanted to be a singer. However, she said that she felt no pressure because of her musical family. With confidence and sincerity, she said "I give myself and that's it. That's all I have to give."
She performed the "Star Spangled Banner" before Super Bowl XXV in 1991. The song occurred during the war in the Persian Gulf. The stadium was full of flag waving people who eargerly anticipated the game and the national anthem. F-16 jets flew over the stadium after the song was completed. The Florida Orchestra played the music during the anthem. Houston's version of the anthem was re released after 9/11. Her performance was enduring and memorable. Her voice rang out strongly in the midst of a packed and appreciative stadium. It's hard to imagine anyone giving a better performance. Houston showed no traces of nervousness or trepidation. Instead, the performance was strong, confident and perfectly delivered.
Regarding Whitney Houston's rendition of "The Star Spangled Banner," Cinque Henderson says the following: "It was this knowledge of how a song should be shaped and her bodily understanding of where her voice should fall that Houston brought to her famous performance of 'The Star Spangled Banner' in 1991, at the outset of the first Iraq War...In its way, the performance remains as influential a moment in television history as Elvis on 'The Ed Sullivan Show.' Houston's rendition of the anthem is studded with vocal gems and remains a master class in vocal prowess. Its hold on us, however, can be attributed, ultimately, to a single powerful effect: the startlingly beautiful sound Houston makes when she sings the word 'free'. This was a sound for the ages." Truly, Houston's rendition has an emotional impact upon the listener. The rendition is moving and emotive. Houston's powerful performance has inspired vocalists and music fans for decades. The memorable performance will continue to inspire listeners for a long time.
Houston's rendition of Dolly Payton's song "I Will Always Love You" is one of her most famous songs. Alex Macpherson says the following regarding the song: "For me, it was the first time in my life that music left me awestruck. I sat open-mouthed in front of the t.v., rendered speechless by it's sheer force. Too young to understand the emotions involved, the scale of the song convinced me of it's importance." The song had a similar effect upon many people.
Joe Levy of the "Hollywood Reporter" says "I will Always Love You" is Whitney's greatest moment and one of the greatest moments in American pop... it was monumental, undeniable and, as many of her recordings were, a triumph of vocal ability that presents itself as human indomitability. The caesura just before the drum beat, and she takes off for that impossible note? It's a moonshot, and we get to be strapped into the rocket and take the ride with her. And that she laces everything up to that point with a tangle of invulnerability and joy makes it even more amazing, like she's painting 5 or 6 different pictures before deciding .... lets just go technicolor! 3D!! We'll need a bigger theater!!!"
As Levy says, there is a lot going on in the song. The song builds and grows with each chorus and verse.
Helen Brown of "The Telegraph" also made many positive comments about Houston's rendition of "I will Always Love You." Brown says "She nails us from the start with a raw and vulnerable a capella opening (for which Kevin Costner and Houston had to fight studio and record label bosses) "If I should stay, I would only be in your way"... Her soft, regretful vocal stays unaccompanied for a bold 46 seconds, and it achieves in under a minute what a film fails to manage in nearly two hours- it strips away layers of fakery to reveal the vulnerable woman beneath." Certainly, Houston's a capella beginning is memorable and strong. It sets the mood for the song and highlights her special singing voice. The introduction shows Houston's control over her voice and the notes of a song.
After the beginning,as Brown says, "the song just builds and builds." Each verse and chorus adds another layer to the song. The first chorus, accompanied by an acoustic guitar, guides the listener more deeply into the song; while the second chorus expresses, with even deeper conviction, the emotion and meaning of the song. As the song continues, the listener becomes more invested in the music and the emotion of Houston's rendition.
David Foster, the producer for the soundtrack for "The Bodyguard" was amazed when Houston recorded the song in 1992. Foster and Houston's mother knew right away that this recording would be one of Houston's greatest accomplishments. Foster added that whenever he asked Houston to sing something in the studio "99 percent of the time, it would be something better than what I asked for... that was the genius, of Whitney Houston." Foster's compliment grants insight into Houston's talent. She had an ability to sing and record above expectations.
When listening to "I Will Always Love You", Randall Roberts says one can "wonder at Houston's pure tone, one that at it's peak could not only hit a note and gracefully sustain it but also inject it with just enough flair and nuance to reinforce her control without pressing the point." This speaks to Houston's balance as a singer. Houston's memorable singing style had many attributes: Gracefullness, clarity,sustainability and pin point vocal control all helped her to produce her striking tones and melodies.
Randall also emphasized Houston's impact upon future singers. Roberts says "She knew she had a voice and that it mattered. And with this knowledge and confidence in her gift, she inspired generations of belting singers who followed. She created not only a movement, but a template, one that powered female led R&B into the center of the pop music marketplace,when it exists Within not only the music of Beyoncé and Rihanna but also in how contestants On singing shows such as "The Voice" and "American Idol" try to impress the judges." So, her musical legacy endures not only in her songs, but also in her influence upon other singers. Her voice inspired others to maximize their potential as singers.
"One moment in time" is another song that Houston is known for. It was recorded and performed for the 1988 Olympics in Seoul, Sputh Korea. Narada Michael Walden, the song's producer, says "Whitney's interpretation makes it live forever...Yes she has power (in that voice), but she has rhythmic sensibility...Whitney had that understanding of how to make a song live forever." Walden points out that the song inspired the athletes to do their best and compete to the highest level possible.
Lisa Belkin, a columnist for the 'Huffington Post', says "One moment in time" is her favorite song by Whitney Houston. Belkin says "The first time I heard it I was newly wed, in a new job, living in a new place and all I knew was that this song captured the simultaneous dread and exhilaration that comes with everything new. Whitney's best known songs are love songs, but this one is an exclamation point about life, work, creativity and craft. You have to work for it, she says, but when you do, you deserve it...And oh, that voice." Houston does a good job of expressing the meaning of the song. Her strong interpretation of the song conveys the courage and bravery of Olympic competition.
Adena Andrews addressed how inspirational Houston was to athletes. Andrews said "Houston's music was the soundtrack to the groundbreaking careers of Serena and Venus Williams, Dominique Moceanu, Sheryl Swoopes and everyone in between. They came of age as Houston reigned with her girl power anthems." Female athletes, in particular, seemed inspired by Houston's singing. Serena Williams once tweeted "One Moment in Time" has propelled me to many of my grand slam victories.
Rita Williams, former UCONN basketball player, declared "Being a fan of Whitney Houston since 1987, I remember writing her a letter and sending her a picture of me to her fan club when I was a kid. When "The Preacher's Wife" soundtrack came out, I had it on constant rotation on our road trips. On the plane, bus and everywhere else, I was listening to Whitney." Inspirational music can strengthen and motivate a committed athlete. Houston's music has done that for many athletes.
Young singers were particularly inspired by Whitney Houston. Jennifer Hudson said "Whitney Houston was probably the ultimate artist that influenced me the most...I always loved everything she sang. But Whitney, that voice you know, and that music- I always liked the music and the substance and something behind it and her music was just like that." Hudson's respect for Houston's voice is something that many can relate to.
Beyoncé Knowles, one of the mot popular singers today, had respect for Houston as a person and as a singer. Knowles referred to Houston's sincerity and kindness and how well she treated others. Knowles said "She took the time to make everyone feel like they were very important to her. I, like every singer, always wanted to be just like her...Her voice was perfect. Strong but soothing. Soulful and classic. Her vibrato, her cadence, her control. So many of my life's memories are attached to a Whitney Houston song. She opened doors and provided a blueprint for all of us." Certainly, Houston's voice had many good qualities and she provided a musical example to many singers. Many were inspired to reach great vocal success because of Houston's example.
Alicia Keys, a successful R&B singer, thought of Houston as a sister. Keys also respected Houston's voice. Keys said "She was chosen to have a voice that would speak to people...So, that's what she means to me...She means like this woman who has been with me since I was a little girl and has shown me what it's like to dream." Keys believed that Houston's voice connected with people in a special way. Houston's music has been a part of Keys' life for a long time. This is true for many people. Houston's music and voice have been a part of our lives for a long time.
Celine Dion, Brandy, Ashanti and Lady Gags are a also among the singers who have cited Houston as an influence upon their music. Houston 'S music and singing will continue to influence singers in the future.
Whitney Houston was also a very generous person. She gave a lot to charity and did much for other people. Her mother Cissy Houston, who often referred to her daughter as 'Nippy' said the following: "Nippy kept on performing, and has her fame grew she started to try to do some good with it. In the summer of 1988, she sang at a benefit concert at Madison Square Garden and raised a lot of money for the United Negro College Fund. And that June, she performed in London at a big tribute concert for Nelson Mandela's seventieth birthday." According to Cissy Houston, Whitney Houston wanted to honor Mandela because she respected her courage. Throughout her life, Whitney Houston respected the integrity and the sacrificial nature of Nelson Mandela. Whitney Houston had a strong sense of social justice.
Whitney Houston gave to various charitable organizations. According to Cissy Houston, "Most of her charitable work and gifts weren't publicized- that's the way she wanted it. But she gave of her time and money to organizations like the NAACP, the Barbara Davis Center for Childhood Diabetes, the United Negro College Fund, the Red Cross, and many more local charities than I could possibly name." Whitney Houston's generosity helped a of people and organizations.
Whitney Houston gave a great deal to St. Jude's Children Research Hospital. She donated so much that she was honored at a banquet put on by the hospital in 1994. Houston donated all of her proceeds from her rendition of the "Star Spangled Banner" to gulf war troops and their families.
In 1992, she donated the proceeds from the premiere of "The Bodyguard" to the Whitney Houston Foundation for Children and the Magic Johnson Foundation for pediatric AIDS research. In 1996, her proceeds from the movie premiere of "The Preacher's Wife" went to the Whitney Houston Foundation for Children, the Boys and Girls Club of America and a third charity picked by Penny Marshall.
She raised money for other charities as well. For instance, she raised more than 1 million dollars for the New York firefighters and police. The Boston area of the National Birth Defense Center named it's Hearing and Learning Center after her because of her generous donations. The Hale house, a charity based in Harlem, NY, was able to build a Learning and Recreational Center because of her charitable donations. She also sang at a Carnegie Hall benefit that brought in $250,000 for the Wyclef Jean Foundation. She gave of her time and her money to many other organizations and causes. In addition to good music, Whitney Houston left behind a legacy of charitable giving.
When she was at her peak, Whitney Houston was one of the best female pop vocalists many of us have ever heard. Her voice stood out for it's range, strength and clarity. She was smooth and emotional at the same time. Her voice could be uplifting and inspirational. Her hard work and natural talent combined with her mother's tutelage helped make Whitney Houston one of the most memorable singers in pop music history.
