The world was gripped by an overpowering force, a force that grew as a magnificent idol, a voice that seduced every stiff-neck and an artiste who came to be called “the diva to end all divas” — Whitney Houston will always be one of the greatest artistes of all times!
“It is absolutely shocking. I’ve been very upset from the time I’ve heard the news,” says Grammy Award winner and playback singer Tanvi Shah. “I grew up listening to Whitney’s songs, I love her tracks like I Wanna Dance With Somebody, When You Believe and I Have Nothing To Lose. Her demise, just before the Grammys is very sad. It’s a huge loss to everyone,” she adds.
Whitney’s death came on the eve of the Grammy Awards, where her mentor, record mogul Clive Davis, was holding an annual pre-event party at which she was scheduled to perform.
Whitney was the first female artiste in music history to debut at number one on the Billboard 200 albums chart. “I would like to classify Whitney as a classy ‘soul’ singer. Her lyrics had so much character, they touched you,” says actress Jennifer Kotwal, a huge fan. “Her songs were mood-lifters. From the Greatest Gift of All to I’m Every Woman which is my number one — Whitney Houston was like Michael Jackson to me. Things that you grow up to treasure as a child will always stay with you. That’s how Whitney will remain too,” says Jennifer.
Music composer of the upcoming film My Heart Is Beating... Adola says, “If Michael Jackson was the king of pop, Whitney was definitely the queen of pop music. Celine Dion and Lady Gaga had admitted once that Whitney has been a huge inspiration in their lives as a singer and so she has been for a lot of musicians across countries. She started as a gospel singer and reached the stars. It’s sad that she lost her life just before the Grammy night.”
Success and fame brought with it an onslaught of nightmares. The singer battled drug addiction and domestic violence for over 14 years. In May 2011, Houston enrolled in a drug and alcohol rehab programme. “It is really sad the way things turned out. But that can never change what she means to the world,” says music director Anirudh, of Kolaveri D fame. “Houston was a phenomenal singer and a great pianist. During my childhood, I spent a lot of time learning from her music including playing the piano. I love her song I Will Always Love You. She was an inspiration to many musicians like me and will continue to be,” he adds.
Adds Luke Kenny, “Whitney’s death is a huge blow to anyone who loves pop music. She was one of those rare talents that had the potential to convert every song into a hit. Her voice is immortal.” The world stands deprived today by a loss that leaves a void deep within every fan’s heart. ‘The Voice’ (as Whitney was called) shall continue to heal and inspire, and will always remain as one of the biggest influential artistes of all times.
* * REACTIONS
First of all, I want to tell you that I love you all. Second, I would like to say, I love you Whitney. The hardest thing for me to do is to come on this stage.”
— Houston's ex-husband Bobby Brown
This is a sad day today, all I want to talk about is her music. She was the most beautiful woman I think I ever saw.... Thank you for giving us your talent, and one of the most beautiful voices I've ever heard.”
— Elton John
She had everything, beauty, a magnificent voice. How sad her gifts could not bring her the same happiness they brought us.”
— Barbra Streisand
Heartbroken and in tears over the shocking death of my friend, the incomparable Ms. Whitney Houston. She will never be forgotten as one of the greatest voices to ever grace
the earth.”
— Mariah Carey
* Whitney Houston’s 10 best singles
1. I Will Always Love You
2. The Star Spangled Banner
3. I’m Your Baby Tonight
4. Where Do Broken Hearts Go?
5. So Emotional
6. Didn’t We Almost Have It All?
7. I Wanna Dance With Somebody
8. Greatest Love Of All
9. Saving All My Love For You
10. How Will I Know
