Whitney Houston’s Legacy Celebrated at Atlanta Gala
Family and friends of the late music legend Whitney Houston gathered in Atlanta to commemorate her historic visit to South Africa three decades ago. The gala, hosted by Pat Houston, president of the Whitney E. Houston Legacy Foundation, and Kevin Frazier from "Entertainment Tonight," brought together music industry professionals, charity representatives, and loved ones to pay tribute to the iconic singer’s enduring legacy.
Whitney Houston’s visit to South Africa in the early 1990s was a significant milestone, as she became the first major recording artist to perform in the post-apartheid nation. Her landmark concert was a testament to her commitment to empowering others, particularly children, and her profound love for them.
Mirriam Solani Mazibuko, director of the Orlando Children’s Home, a charity that Houston visited during her South African trip, attended the gala as a special guest. She shared a heartfelt account of her encounter with Whitney, recalling the singer’s warmth, kindness, and generosity. Mazibuko was struck by how down-to-earth Whitney was, saying, "She gave me a warm hug and her signature sweet smile. I could not believe that she was really there with us."
The gala featured performances by renowned artists, including Yolanda Adams, who delivered a soulful rendition of "I Love The Lord," a song that Whitney had performed at all her concerts in South Africa. Gary Houston, Whitney’s brother and long-time duet partner, also took the stage, leading the final performance of "We Can Touch The World" alongside Pat Houston and the Sauce background singers.
Pat Houston honored her sister’s legacy, stating, "She was a phenomenal musician, phenomenal, just iconic. But for community, she was grand. She was everything. She was just so grand and we appreciate that. And that’s why her legacy will continue to just build and build, to help build a generation…"
Whitney’s dedication to serving the community inspired her to establish the foundation, which she financed herself, leveraging her status as Whitney Houston. Today, it is our responsibility to continue her legacy, as Gregory Sams, who recently won the foundation’s Cover Song Competition, demonstrated with his powerful performance of "Miracle."
Whitney Houston passed away at the age of 48 in February 2012, but her music, message, and philanthropic efforts continue to inspire and uplift people around the world. The Atlanta gala served as a poignant reminder of her enduring legacy and the impact she had on the lives of those she touched.
