Whitney Houston

Definition

Whitney Houston was an iconic American singer and actress known for her powerful voice and emotional delivery, which made her one of the best-selling music artists of all time. Her work blends elements of R&B, soul, and pop, showcasing the influence of jazz vocal techniques in her performances, particularly in her use of improvisation and phrasing. Houston's style not only dominated the music charts but also paved the way for future artists in both R&B and soul genres.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Whitney Houston was born on August 9, 1963, and began her career as a model before transitioning to music, making her debut album 'Whitney Houston' in 1985.
2. Her cover of 'I Will Always Love You' became one of the best-selling singles of all time and showcased her ability to convey deep emotion through song.
3. Houston won numerous awards, including six Grammy Awards, and is often cited as a major influence on contemporary R&B artists.
4. Her performance style featured a blend of pop sensibilities with jazz vocal techniques, allowing her to connect with audiences across various musical genres.
5. In addition to her singing career, Houston also starred in several films, including 'The Bodyguard,' which further solidified her status as a multifaceted entertainer.

Review Questions

• How did Whitney Houston's vocal style reflect influences from jazz in her R&B and soul music?
  • Whitney Houston's vocal style incorporated elements of jazz through her use of improvisation, phrasing, and emotional expression. She often employed techniques such as melisma and dynamic control, which are hallmarks of jazz vocalists. This blending of styles allowed her to convey deep emotion in her performances, setting her apart from many contemporary artists and influencing the evolution of R&B and soul music.
• Discuss the impact of Whitney Houston's cover of 'I Will Always Love You' on the music industry and its connection to jazz influences.
  • Whitney Houston's cover of 'I Will Always Love You' had a monumental impact on the music industry, becoming a defining moment in pop culture. The song showcased her extraordinary vocal range and emotional depth, reminiscent of jazz singers who interpret songs with personal flair. This interpretation not only revitalized the original song by Dolly Parton but also highlighted how R&B can be enriched by jazz techniques, influencing future generations of artists across genres.
• Evaluate Whitney Houston's legacy in the context of R&B and soul music, considering how her blend of styles has shaped contemporary artists.
  • Whitney Houston's legacy in R&B and soul music is profound, as she redefined what it meant to be a pop artist by seamlessly blending these genres with jazz influences. Her emphasis on vocal technique and emotional storytelling has set a high standard for artists who followed. Contemporary singers frequently cite Houston as an inspiration for their own work, demonstrating how her innovative approach to music continues to resonate today. Moreover, her success paved the way for other female artists to explore similar fusions of style, enriching the landscape of modern R&B and soul.

Related terms

R&B: Rhythm and Blues is a genre that originated in the African American community, characterized by soulful singing and a strong backbeat, often incorporating jazz elements.

Soul Music: Soul music combines elements of gospel, rhythm and blues, and jazz, emphasizing emotional expression and vocal performance.

Vocal Improvisation: Vocal improvisation is a technique where singers spontaneously create melodies or embellishments during their performance, commonly found in jazz and R&B.