Remembering Whitney Houston, R.I.P.
With the instantaneous news cycles of our internet age, everyone within reach of an electronic device has doubtless already heard the upsetting news of the passing of singer--no, diva--Whitney Houston, widely regarded as the greatest voice of her generation. News of Houston's death spread exactly as the music industry was preparing for the Grammys--a night which in some sense was hers, having not only won 6 Grammys herself but having also undeniably owned its stage with her legendary appearances. Her live performance of "One Moment in Time" (above) at the 1989 ceremony is often touted as both her personal best and the most memorable in the show's history. Such is the size of her talent and her impact on pop culture that people will certainly remember years from now where they were when they heard the news. This moment time will be forever associated in most people's minds with the heartfelt tributes from Jennifer Hudson at the 54th Grammy awards last night and Alicia Keys at the annual pre-Grammy held by Houston's mentor Clive Davis (after the jump--there was also a touching tribute from Elle Varner, backed by The Roots at their own Grammy jam--we will do our best to bring you that video soon). Others will hold on to other mementos--the yardies in our midst will surely be pulling up the needle on her epic Wyclef collaboration "My Love is Your Love"--or the legendary dub plate he cut with her--many times at reggae bashments all over the world this week. But the clip we have on rewind is Whitney's acceptance speech--eyes clear and face glowing with joy--for her first Grammy in 1986 (below)
