Whitney Houston Stages A Comeback

chris-leo
September 13 2006, 4:37PM

as far as i'm concerned, whitney houston never has to sing another note to me. like you said, keith, she's sold over 120 million albums. nothing can take that or those remarkable performances away from her. she doesn't owe me or the world anything else.

my only concern is that she'll concentrate on her health and recovery and that she'll stay healthy.

i hope this is it. good luck, whitney houston.

DDC
September 13 2006, 4:41PM

Yuck.... Whitney Houston is a disgusting humiliation that I wish the entire world could all forget ever happened. And before anyone points out her past triumphs and her once (VERY PAST TENSE) stunning beauty, it's those very memories that makes me shake my head in pity. In fact I have more respect for Michael Jackson's powdery, child-lovin' arse than her. *Wishing I could go back to 1985 when Jackson was still black and Whitney was still together....* I do wish her good health and peace of mind, just wish she'd quietly go away and stop embarrassing herself and us.

charles
September 13 2006, 5:04PM

I pray that she can find her way back. DDC, I pray people will love and support you if you ever find that your life is low.

alicia banks
September 13 2006, 5:07PM

look how she has aged!...shame

getting rid of scum like bobby is the first step to a new life...

god bless her!

peace
ab
eloquent fury
www.geocities.com/ambwww

Blue
September 13 2006, 5:09PM

Thank God ... I've been ready for Whitney to come back. Much like MJ, if she sticks to the music and leaves her personal life out of our faces, we'll all be ready to receive her. I'm all about a good comeback story, so I wish her much success! :-)

-G-
September 13 2006, 5:11PM

DDC, you seem miserable and bitter for some reason....however, we are all entitled to our own opinion. Nonetheless, a person that is recovering, is just doing that "recovering". Whitney Houston is a very big part of black culture, black music, and black people for that matter. She's like the Barbara Streisand of the black community, and you should be very supportive of those that have went through what she had to go through....

But perhaps that most disturbing thing about your comment is that you too is a human being capable of error, just like Whitney Houston. In this life we never know where it may take us, and there are thousands of people that say,"it will never happen to me", because they feel they are in a better place now...and that is probaly where your comments is coming from...However, one day you might need some moral support, and oh what a suprise(maybe not)it will be if someone felt the same way about you as you do about her...hoping that you would just disappear.

havin_my_say
September 13 2006, 5:17PM

Yes, I second that Charles. People are so quick to kick somebody when they're down and cast judgement. 'Disgusting humiliation'? Come on, I think that's a bit much. Whitney unfortunately cracked under the pressures of superstardom. And, unlike most people, her issues were aired for the whole world to see. I pray that she finds her way back for her daughter especially if for nothing else...

Rockinrob
September 13 2006, 5:21PM

God is good!

I have prayed off & on over the years for Whitney and Bobby, but mainly Whitney regarding her addiction...be that addiction drugs, Bobby or whatever. You see, I, like any other American born into sin, cannot pass judgement against her.

Her knowing that she is a child of God, and I truly believe that she believes that, is all she needs. All she has to do is place her life in His hands to guide her path. She really doesn't have to do anything more than that. And if she never sings another note, with Christ truly being 1st in her life, she'll become greater than she ever was...in so many, many ways.

BRAVO Whitney!

Kwesi
September 13 2006, 5:35PM

Please let's stand behind Whitney in her efforts to get her life back in order. It would be terrible if we turned our backs on her. It appears that she is now REALLY trying to move forward by getting rid of the ROOT of her problem. May their divorce be a speedy one! Also, let's ignore BBC's comments. Comments like that are just a reminder that some people really possess some very serious issues. And when they open their mouths or release their fingers over a keyboard, it shows!

theeunuch
September 13 2006, 6:06PM

Poor Whitney. I know she has made some bad choices (husband, drugs, ect.), but I still feel for her. I hope and pray she finds her way back.

qtmia
September 13 2006, 6:36PM

I hope she gets well ... and I hope Bobby is well also ...Whitney is sooo ghetto!!!!

Tyler
September 13 2006, 7:12PM

I think we want to be careful and not equate Bobby with Whitney's downfall. Her image, as created by Clive, was not the real Whitney. So who is to know whether she has always been "ghetto" or not. I also think working with Clive again could be disastrous. He is single-handedly resposible for white-washing her sound. She should work with Jamey Jaz or Mike City. Someone who can let her be her.

More importantly, let's hope she gets clean first and gets a vocal coach that can help her restore what she has undoubtably lost. Equating Bobby with Whitney's downfall is to deny her agency in her own life. She is owed more than that, as a person, a woman, and an artist.

DDC
September 13 2006, 7:13PM

Looks like a couple of you guys made a couple of ASSumptions about my post. Thanks for asking me to clarify before judging it. First, my criticism of her has less to do with her slip from grace and more to do with all the stank attitude and ghetto-ish behavior she's been displaying over the last decade. The entertainment industry's filled with drug addicts who aren't making a public spectacle of themselves and what they represent, just as it's filled with classless jerks who, as far as we can detect, are basically clean and sober. And as for me personally, I've been down the path Whitney is on, and in fact have sank lower- again, thanks for ASKING BEFOREHAND. It's still a struggle for me week-to-week. So I can relate her problem and I pray for her. But Whitney's still a sore for sighted eyes, and though Dionne has never been considered a great beauty, Whitney has her looking like Diahan Carroll in that photo.

Larry
September 13 2006, 8:16PM

Well, Dionne Warwick was considered a a beauty, and a paragon poise and grace back in the 1960's...and was nicknamed the "Black Pearl" during her apperances in France with Marlene Dietrich. Derogatory or not...hell The Supremes were called Negresses when they landed in Britian in 1964...but Dionne Warwick ...in her day. Not that bad to look at...

theeunuch
September 13 2006, 8:17PM

To Tyler. I agree that we are all responsible for our own actions, but you have to admit Whitney never got much negative press until she married Bobby.
He may not be responsible for her downfall as you say, but he sure as hell didn't help her get back up.

Cocoa Rican
September 13 2006, 8:35PM

We can't be young, beautiful and talented forever. Unfortunatley, when you're star has shined as brightly as Whitney's has and your life has been under the microscope for more than twenty years, the pressure can be overwhelming. Yes, she's aged - we all have and hopefully we will continue doing so. Yes, she's taken quite a public spill - some of have and thankfully, in a more private setting. The truth is, she's still here and now has the opportunity to do what she was obviously blessed to do - be a light to others. If all goes well, Whitney can serve to highlight how whether you're at the top of your game or at the bottom of the heap, there's hope... you can overcome...you can rise again.

Remember that karma is a bitch. How we choose to judge and scrutinize others is usually the same ruler that will be used to measure our own life.

Good luck Whitney...live baby... the alternative is a tragedy.

Chet
September 13 2006, 9:07PM

It brings joy to my heart to hear that Whitney Houston is recovering and taking the necessary steps to heal her wounds. I relish the thought of: seeing her grace the stage again.

a.p.
September 13 2006, 9:57PM

As this obviously, specially talented black woman has to live her life in public (while most of you would never even catch the attention of your neighbors), it would seem that our community, the world community and the black community, would have the presence of spirit to encourage her recovery and growth in this often difficult world.

pc
September 13 2006, 10:03PM

I wish Whitney a full recovery. If nothing else, her story is rich and varied and adds context and texture to the world around her. Go Nippy! Just hope the divorce plans are real and not threat and game play that adults often employ.

Caliguy
September 13 2006, 10:49PM

DDC... you poor thing, you. It's clear why you've "sank lower - again" It's called NEGATIVE KARMA. I would never want to be you... you don't even want to be you. More important: Whitney will always be fabulous... and we all go through it at some point or another. Come back and sing yo face off, Whitney!! Let Love Rule.

DDC
September 13 2006, 11:18PM

It's clear why you've "sank lower - again" It's called NEGATIVE KARMA. I would never want to be you... you don't even want to be you

What does this even mean, dude? Do you personally smoke crack, yourself? There's that ASSumption again when it comes to my posts. You catty divas need to quit! I just think all the people defending her blindly are fans of her golden-oldie music. You all know if this topic was about Courtney Love or spitting, iron-throwing Foxy Brown you all wouldn't be so generous with your sympathy. Don't get mad when someone calls a spade a spade. Grow a thicker skin or get bent.

bubba
September 13 2006, 11:56PM

I'm confused, Tyler. Whitney had a sound before Clive Davis? LOL.

lamarsoulangel
September 14 2006, 12:02AM

I am glad whitney houston is making a comeback . whitney needs to be at top where she belongs, I hope she is at peace whatever she's been going through. one of the most talented singers out there, hell most of these girls today can't even sing.

meme
September 14 2006, 1:37AM

Whitney is rich yall fags are not, do you really think she cares about a bunch of broke sissy and bull dykes!

DDC
September 14 2006, 2:21AM

I hate to agree but that is probably right. Whitney's deeply religious and has always carried herself in a sexually conservative way. She's also close to The infamous Winans family. Since when has she ever reached out to or acknowledged you gay fans who are breaking your necks to defend her honour here? And no, the rumored affair with her assistant doesn't count as reaching out. Oh, I forgot, she's never said anyting homophobic so that means she probably isn't right? Please... She's probably just another Donna Summer. And if Whitney does "slip" and make some insensitive comment like Summer was accused of doing, you same rabid defenders will be the first to turn on her. I say Whitney needs to go and sit her pityful, embarrasing self down, rest and recover, and let Mariah handle this decade.

Sexbox
September 14 2006, 8:54AM

I loved Being Bobby Brown, this is the end of an era! Maybe blame Bobby, but you can watch that show and see she's the mean one. She screams at her fans, it clearly on drugs and just is a mess. That old matted wig she wore was ridiculous! 120 million records and she couldn't afford a decent wig? And don't even get me started on her doo doo bubbles...

But I do love Dionne Warwick! Someone on another board posted a lot of her music and I'm in love! Her voice is flawless, one of the best and most distinct I've ever heard. She was a magical combination with Burt Bacharach. I'd love to see her live one of these days.

havin_my_say
September 14 2006, 10:11AM

Sexbox, I agree with you about Dionne Warwick. Her voice was crystal clear back in her heyday. The stuff she recorded with B. Bacharach can't be touched.

Mervin Malone
September 14 2006, 10:23AM

I am glad to see the talented Ms. Houston return to the fold. I've missed her voice immensely and am eager for her to record music again.

Derrick from Philly
September 14 2006, 10:33AM

Drug addiction doesn't mean the end of an singing artist's (or any artist's) ablility to grow and comeback with an even greater talent for interpreting human emotion, human suffering, human joy. Let's not forget Lady Day. By the mid 1950s, Billie Holiday's delightful sounding voice was gone, but her ability to project complex emotions with her "damaged" voice had become astounding and almost supernatural.

J. Dyson
September 14 2006, 10:46AM

Although I somewhat understand the desire to feel sorry for Whitney. However, I don't. I feel sorry for the homeless guy on the street. I feel sorry for the crack-head mother who can't live her life because of her addiction. I feel sorry for the kids of crack-head parents. Can many of you, who have been praying for this multi-platinum, multi-millionaire artist, say that you share the same sympathy/empathy for those I listed above? Or do you them criticize every chance you get? Have you been praying for them as much as you have for Whitney? Puhleeze!

Charles
September 14 2006, 11:06AM

I've never read or heard Whitney utter a negative word about the SGL community. The first time I saw Whitney perform was at the legendary Paradise Garage. The next time was at an AIDS benefit here in Los Angeles. On both occasions, she seemed genuinely please to be performing before us. Once again, let's pray that she lives to have a long, happy, and healthy life

J. Mathis
September 14 2006, 11:13AM

The Bible says...blessed are the merciful for they shall receive mercy....Lets us keep in mind that it is by God's grace that we all have not made the wrong choices that Miss Houston did. She is human...like us all. If all our bad choices were aired in the international media like hers, how would we feel? Lets remember that these are human beings, with families,who also bought alot of joy and good music back in their prime. Now about Miss Dionne Warwick....She is a LEGEND...pure and simple. Please study the history of music before you make nasty comments about OUR TRUE DIVAS. Show some respect for those women who paved the way for all the new stars of today!!!!!! God bless you Whitney.....prayers for healing, restoration and happiness are being directed towards you.

-G-
September 14 2006, 11:54AM

Caliguy...I agree with you about your opinion of DDC..I have to say that regardless if Whitney care about the gay community or not, there are some people that are deviant and heartless, compassionless. And without those emotions, WE ALL KNOW WHATS LEFT IN THEM(hurt and dysfunction)...And like you stated "They can't stand themselves". There is so much negativity and shade in the black community as a whole, and if you magnify that same shade 1 million times, there you have the black gay community..Remember, a fag is what a fag does, and if people are demeaning and none-supportive of their own, you know what they think about themselves and their place in a world that will continue to exist even after they are gone...BAD KARMA is it, and so it shall remain.
That is EXACTLY wrong with the black gay community and black community as a whole...BAD KARMA, NEGATIVITY, and fukk support, it does not exist...

Luddite
September 14 2006, 12:41PM

I have to agree with sexbox. Watching "Being Bobby Brown" was literally like watching a car wreck unfold in front of you. You know you shouldn't watch it, but you can't help BUT watch! I have always been amused about the "Bobby is ruining Whitney's life" buzz. The show proved to me that although Bobby may not be helping her life, he is NOT the problem. SHE is, and I have no pity for her low class ghetto antics and behavior.

I have known many people who have struggled and still struggle with additctions to drugs/booze. Most of them continue to do so with a quiet class and dignity. Whitney has never had either of those traits in her life.

MissRossToYou
September 14 2006, 12:54PM

I understand DDC's comment;
Ah, Dionne Warwick in her day AFTER her teeth were fixed for about the 3rd time was indeed a great beauty. Her very high cheek bones, cat-like eyes and grand poise made her a stunning creature indeed.

Whitney Houston is in many people's eyes a disgrace not because of her struggles and bad marriage to Bobby but because she behaved herself in a disgraceful and disgusting manner on her husband's television show. Farting, talking about impacted feces, screaming "kiss my ass" and all the rest of her behavior that was suited for the circus. It's one thing to have a problem but it is quite another matter to agree to have your dysfunction blasted all over the airwaves for everyone to see. That is what "our diva" did. Not to mention to bring her child up in the madness that was her crazy life. She has a lot to live up to. I'm waiting and watching.

DDC
September 14 2006, 1:21PM

Wow, G, I'm really striking a chord with you aren't I? If I was some sadistic bully, I'd really be getting a kick out of it. But who cares? I'm only giving my opinion on a public figure which none of us will never know personally. A public figure who continuously chooses to go on stage and before cameras and embarass herself and black women even though she doesn't even have to. So get a life and get bent. Courntey Love has a daughter, too, happens to be on drugs, but worst of all throws nasty temper tantrums all the time. In other words, she's an obnoxious bee-otch. Russell Crowe, with no known history of drugs, throws telephones at people, kidnaps producers and flips the bird to fans with cameras. So would any of you supporters go ballistic if I told it like it was with them, too? Get bent!

Ks25
September 14 2006, 2:03PM

First of all DDC you need to stop hating on the VOICE because her past! Thats right Whitney Houston is the VOICE of our generation and one of the best female vocalists of all time, if not the best! Everybody has a past but that does not have to be your future! Besides people overseas give Whitney mad mad love despite her problems so you can continue to be negative toward Nippy about her past. Whitney ultimately hurt nobody but herself, and people are just so cruel to hold on to her past with drugs and her marriage to Bobby! Bobby is a shady man! For one, he has physically abused Whitney many times while they were married and cheated on her numerous of times. Furthermore, he has allowed his Mom and his Sister to disrespect his wife. Cissy, Dionne, and the Houstons have never disrespected the Browns. But what comes around goes around and Bobby will get his!!!!

Jay
September 14 2006, 2:13PM

No more Whitney & Bobby duets!!! Thank you LAWD!! lol, I am so very happy for Whitney Houston these days. I honestly believe this is a new beginning for her....can't wait for the new music to come out. May God continue to bless & keep her.

C. Baptiste-Williams
September 14 2006, 2:17PM

While I love her to death and happy she is divorcing Bobby, I think calling Whitney making one appearance in public is a little premature, I mean she has done this several times before.

DDC
September 14 2006, 2:32PM

Thank you MissRoss, I was beginning to lose hope for reason. But don't expect anyone to respond to the points you've made. I mean all the Houston supporters are still pretending like J. Dyson's valid questions don't exist but are going tit-for-tat with me.

I do agree that Dionne Warrick is a lovely woman with a lot of grace and poise. It's just that when people are talking about beautiful women, her name doesn't come up they way a Diahann Carroll or Iman does.

Lastly, everyone needs to know that just because Houston's filed for divorce doesn't mean that it'll go through. People sometimes just do that to scare their husbands. Remember Juanita Jordan and Jerri Hall? And even if it goes through, doesn't mean they may not reunite after its finalized. The End.

mau
September 14 2006, 2:42PM

The divorce will go through trust I have my sources and it is for real. Also Whitney has been seperated from Bobby since April and her Bobby Christina have been LA. Also some you act like it was Nippy idea to create Being Bobby Brown? Bobby shady self decided to create the show to tarnish Nippy reputation. She was vulnerable because she was in love and drug abuse. You got remember Bobby was physically and mentally abusive to Nippy!!!! It was suppose to be a show about Bobby, but ended up showing Bobby is the sane one trying to self is drug addict superstar wife, which is not true. I respect Whitney cause least she can admit she took drugs, Bobby only admits to weed and acts like he does not have problem.

J. Dyson
September 14 2006, 3:18PM

lol...DDC They don't exist because people allow their infatuation w/celebrities to cloud any sense of reason. I laugh to myself when I hear people invoke the spirit of prayer and forgivness when discussing Whitney. Did her performance on BBB really exist or did I make it up? Did her "he's still my man" (while picking him up for jail AFTER she had him arrested for hitting her) exist or did I make that up? In her time, Whitney HAD a phenomenal voice. It was not the best I've heard but it was phenomenal. Unfortunately, it will never be that way again.

ks25
September 14 2006, 3:36PM

Whitney will don't ever have to sing another to prove she is the voice and she is already legend! However, I am confident that some you will be eating your words when she returns. Whitney is down, but she no where near out. She is much stronger than you think she is!!!!!!!!!

joaquin
September 14 2006, 3:43PM

I must comment on this because I want the best for Whitney Houston...or as some call her...Nippy. She is a legend and a deeply moving soul....I wish her the best!!!!

James
September 14 2006, 3:48PM

I just wish Whitney the best. Maybe now she can take some time and pull herself together.

Mitch
September 14 2006, 8:00PM

Diane Sawyer is a racist quack who was trying to pimp Whitney / us for rich, white supremacist racist media (enquirer) america.

Juan in DC
September 14 2006, 10:54PM

Interesting comments. Whether it is Whitney or Neesey down the street, or Tyrone from around the way, we should be encouraging in our attitude towards anyone trying to recover from an addiction. Remember, there but for the grace of God go any of us.

I knew Whitney before she was a "superstar" and yes, the girl is ghetto but we all have potential to be.

I hope none of you ever find yourself down and trying to get back up.

sunburn
September 15 2006, 8:25AM

I am not a singer so I don't know anything about how a singer's vocal chords work. But the last time I heard Whitney singing live her voice sounded very worn out. I know that she smokes cigarettes and used drugs, but my question is "Can a singer's voice recover or be restored to it's former glory?"

J.Dyson
September 15 2006, 9:34AM

The answer is that it's virtually impossible.

Jason
September 15 2006, 9:52AM

Sunburn.... J. Dyson said that it's virtually impossible.. But, with God's favor which she clearly has it can be done! I just pray her strength through it all. It's going to take some major self control!

Luddite
September 15 2006, 9:52AM

The Washington Post has a great article on this divorce today:

Wildly Whitney

By Eugene Robinson
Friday, September 15, 2006; Page A19

We'll get to the war on terrorism in a moment, but first, somehow, we've got to absorb the news about Whitney and Bobby. After all these years, is it really over? No more shocking tabloid photo spreads of Whitney Houston's powder room (and that's not a euphemism)? No more jittery, vertigo-inducing episodes of "Being Bobby Brown"?

Assuming it was Houston -- not some well-meaning friend or Class 1 controlled substance -- who had control of the situation last week when she signed the papers filing for a legal separation, it does appear that her 14-year marriage to bad-boy Brown is history. We should wish them both well, because they have performed a priceless public service, at great pain to themselves. Together, they were a living just-say-no public service announcement, a caution against the ravages of a whole catalogue of self-destructive behaviors.

So familiar

J. Dyson
September 15 2006, 10:11AM

JAson...of course anything is possible through God. So is everyone being cured from AIDS. God can do that too. But, from a realistic point of view...she won't get "the" voice back.

MissRossToYou
September 15 2006, 10:14AM

Darling Mitch,

Let's not forget that Whitney WORKS for the racist, white media and became very wealthy for doing so. Why excuse her drug addled conversation with Diane Sawyer? She did that to herself. She in a very real sense "pimped" herself. I most certainly am not trying to kick Whitney while she is down but a part of recovery is TO ACKNOWLEDGE THE HARM YOU HAVE DONE TO YOURSELF AND OTHERS! Whitney embarassed herself, her child, her family, her fans and most of sound thinking, forward moving, black America with her antics. Much of it was due to her drug use. I hope Whitney gets it together....I'm waitng and watching.
By the way, I don't think Bobby Brown's reality nightmare show revealed him as sane at all. He is just as sick if not moreso than Whitney; and so is much of his family. Did you see his father? No Wonder!

Ks25
September 15 2006, 11:08AM

Whitney has embrassed herself enough already you think if she still did not have the pipes she be coming back to sing. She don't need the money! Arista could just pay her off and retire if she thought she could not sing anymore. She has been singing all her very life, I think she knows her own voice better than we do!!!

Robert
September 15 2006, 11:15AM

As for my two cents.

I love Whitney. I loved her music for years and I have loved her DIVA antics. Yes she has made some mistakes in life, but haven't we all? I am glad that she has dropped Bobbys ignorant behind and I hope she sticks to her recovery plan. And when she gets back I dont want any of you haters on this message board trying to jump on the Whitney lovefest bandwagon. She is a dynamic vocalist and her legendary chops will go down in history!!

J. Dyson
September 15 2006, 11:24AM

And the "iluvwhitneysomuchsoicantcreason" people continue. No one is "hating" on Whitney. We're merely stating facts. As much as some of you (i'm sure) talk about and turn your nose up at "ghetto" folk, why is it "hating" to talk about Whitney. She is what she is. Just don't expect the "the greatest voice in the world" as it was in the past. THAT one is gone. There is a cause and effect of any and everything we do.

Ks25
September 15 2006, 11:45AM

Whitney's talent should never be underestimated especially when she is sober. She comes from an extremely talented family and legacy and was born to sing. Its a gift given by the Creator from birth, it is one of her life purposes. All this drama she be through would just give her something more to sing about and more reason to want to sing!!!

Jeff
September 15 2006, 12:11PM

Well, that's good and all but let's be real about this shall we? As you get older, the voice naturally loses some of its elasticity. If you've been smoking, drinking, or using drugs, this can speed up the process. I can count on one hand at least two singers who still have close to what they had twenty years ago. One of them is Chaka and the other one is Patti Labelle (Oh, and Gladys Knight). Dionne's voice is not what it was. Neither is Aretha's. They had to learn a new way of singing which meant either altering the melody some especially as it pertains to the high notes or sing the high notes in a lighter voice without the power they once had. For me this is fine because the one thing you can't take from these singers (Whitney included) is their ability to emote feeling into what they sing.

J. Dyson
September 15 2006, 12:21PM

Jeff...you are absolutely correct. It's funny how none of her die hard fans can accept that. Check out Natalie Cole Live in 1978 (if you can find it). If I'm correct this was recorded in the midst of her drug days. Natalie can't do what she did then and to her credit she does not try. Whitney should still be able to emote quite well, as w/Natalie. If Whitney turns into the "chantuese" like Natalie has..she'll be fine. Just don't expect another "I Have Nothing" or a "Star Spangled Banner" but more of a "Shoop"

MAXQTHRUST
September 15 2006, 1:15PM

IF WHITNEY DOES NOT SING A SINGLE NOTE I AM JUST GLAD THIS CHAPTER OF HER LIFE I OVER. I WISH HER PEACE, HAPPINESS,ENDURANCE, LOVE OF HER SELF, HEALING,AND SOME TIME FOR SELF EXAMINATION OF MIND, SPIRIT, AND SOUL.IT'S WHEN U GO THRU THE LOWEST VALLEYS IN LIFE IS ONLY WHEN U CAN SEE AND REACH YOUR HIGHEST MOUNTAIN TOPS. U GO MIZZ WHITNEY AND SHUT DA HATERS UP FO' REAL.

MissRossToYou
September 15 2006, 2:01PM

Miss Whitney's voice would have changed whether she used drugs or not, smoked cigs or not. She has probably increased the damage to her voice by her addiction. She will not be whom she was. I recall an interview/article I read in people magazine by a very famous voice coach (Seth Riggs?) about Whitney's voice. The interviewee predicted that Whitney would do unreparable damage to her voice if she didn't learn to sing differently. He maintained that Whitney sang too much from her throat, creating undue stress on her vocal chords, as opposed to using her diaphram more efficienlty. He predicted this would happen in about 10 years. The same thing happened to her mother and her aunt. Whitney's was a great voice and sound. Why do you Whitney devotees blame Booby for all of her problems? If Whitney was inclined to be anything other than "ghetto" to quote many. She would never have been remotely attracted to Bobby Brown in the first place. Think about it!

J. Dyson
September 15 2006, 2:43PM

Ross...yep..you're correct. That goes for any singer who never learns to sing from their diaphragm(sp). It's inevitable. It's a reason that classical singers are able to belt out arias..night..after night..after night..for years..after years...after years. It's because they are trained properly. Think..Jessye Norman..Danyce Graves, Kathleen etc.

ChicagoChild
September 15 2006, 2:55PM

Did somebody say that Chaka Khan still had a good voice? I'm sorry, but today's Chaka is very embarassing!

Chaka used to be the bomb! Either singing those high notes or singing in that low sexy voice.

I recently saw Chaka when she received a life time award---and was so embarassed that I had to turn the channel.

It was that bad! I couldn't handle it. I have heard that this isn't the first time she has given a less than stellar performance. I mean, she doesn't have to scream---although she was trying to do just that---but it was some kind of SCREACHING!!

Please, please, older superstars---please don't go out like this. Have some self-control!

saint james
September 15 2006, 3:48PM

I already know this isn't the kindest thing for me to say but I can't resist it right now...Does anyone else see the resemblance of Whitney Houston (in the photo above) to Endora, Samantha's mother in Bewitched? She looks like the negative of Agnes Moorehead. She has really aged in the past couple of years.

ks25
September 15 2006, 4:00PM

Please Whitney does need any tips from us and Seth in the singing department. She been singing all her life and Whitney sings mostly from diagpharm how else she going to produce those full notes, with full vibrato like that! I am a singer and Whitney prime was a very very very technical singer!!!!!!!!!!!! She had a head and superhead register like better than most opera singers and some of do not know what your talking about with Cissy. Cissy is near 80 years old and she still can blow!

J. Dyson
September 15 2006, 4:22PM

ks25..considering that you're a singer, you should know it is surely possible to produce "full notes" w/o proper technique. Many gospel singers are able to do that and a number of them sing straight from the throat. Many of them, have no voice after a performance and sound even worse in their latter years..ie..Mavis Staples. Also, to suggest that her technique is better than most opera singers is ridiculous. Everything about singing opera is technique..from knowing where to place your diaphragm when hitting a high C to melismas. Maybe you're a cabaret singer and are judging from such a background.

MissRossToYou
September 15 2006, 5:23PM

Dear ks25

I beg your pardon, I most certainly do know what I am talking about. I am a singer and I have been a professional for the past twenty five years. In my youth I was trained in opera, so I know of what I speak. Seth was right. Whitney's register dropped before she admitted to drug use. She mostly used her head voice in her high notes. Her true voice was where her strength was. Please listen with an artist's ear to her rendition of "I'll Always Love You". You can hear the breaks and the little fissures in her sustained notes. Listen without looking at her. It is entirely possible to produce a 'full' without using the proper technique. That is what I think she did. Seth Riggs(?) recognized it. Look at "Retha. Full sound, wrong way = diminished instrument.

My reference to Cissy Houston was not a dis or dig to her. I mentioned that she too over taxed her chords. She cannot sing anything that approximates her former soprano days. Blowing is not the question it is the quality of the voice that i

Jeff
September 15 2006, 7:57PM

Okay, now I have to get it on this a little more. Where does the sound initially start? From your vocal folds. And where are the vocal folds? In your throat. So a more preferable saying should be that some people sing with throat muscle tension.

I also have to disagree with the notion of opera singers being able to sing night after night. First off, opera singers aren't working nearly as much as contemporary singers like Whitney because their music doesn't dictate that. They don't have to promote their music because it's been around for centuries. How many opera singers you know are doing concerts where they sing consistently by themselves (meaning no breaks for them like in an actualy opera) for more than an hour or so? Two hours? Night after night? I think not.

Contemporary music is a music of commerce (touring/promoting). Let me say that if they had the kind of schedule contemporary singers have (the ones riding the charts), their voice wouldn't be so pristine either. Overuse is overuse.

Jeff
September 16 2006, 12:40AM

Also, think about the kind of music they sing. Female opera singers don't use chest voice whereas it's almost a must if you are are serious singer in the contemporary field. It is a lot harder to take chest voice up than it is to bring head voice down. If you never use your lower register then of course your voice is going to last longer. What happened to a lot of the singers we talk about is not necessarily improper technique as it is bad habits/abuse. Aretha, Dionne, and Whitney are smokers so there was abuse done on their part. Celine Dion belts with the best of them and her voice is still there. So is Patti's. When I hear voice teachers critique singers like some do, I always say to myself "Well, you do what they're doing". You sing night after night for two to three hours for ten or more years and then tell me how wonderful your technique is, how it sustained you. My hats off to ya if you can but it's more than just a notion.

WW
September 16 2006, 3:00AM

I enjoy reading comments from such famous people and your qualified diagnosis and opinions.

Please remember "He without sin, cast the first stone"

I'm amazed at the lack of compassion from HOMOSEXUAL men, who long daily for acceptance from family and friends.

ks25
September 16 2006, 1:42PM

Celine Dion as well as Patti by far can't sing like they use too. Their tone is not the same at all and now Patti mid range is totally not there. Celine can no longer hit that F5 she did in All By Myself in full chest all you get are high notes from Patti, not full notes with vibrato, the full notes that Whitney still can bring and hold. Patti notes are very much from throat! You must did not listen to those full notes on That's What Friends Are For. When you can hold notes with full fast vibrato like Whitney does for a long time then talk back to me about singing properly. All I know is the singers you consider singing properly have off diction sorry. Whitney in prime could annuciate all her notes from the top of range to bottom of it. Whitney still belt out G5# A5 and I think she reached a Bb5 in full chest in her 2004 Asia and Soul Divas tour. Patti sings mostly in mx voic

Jeff
September 16 2006, 3:14PM

And who do you know that sing exactly like they used to from ten or tweny years ago? Pavarotti? I don't think so. We must stop putting western european notions of singing on such a pedestal. There are just as many of them seeing the otolaryngologists as their pop counterparts. For the record, I never said Whitney wasn't singing with proper technique. That was one of the other posters. Trust me I'm not hating on Whitney. You have to admit though that out between Patti, Celine and Whitney that Nippy's voice has changed the most. My main gripe is with what we perceive as singing "properly". There are many indigenous cultures out there that don't prescribe to the western european idea of singing. Chinese classical music is sung with a high larynx and they aren't damaging their voice. There's a lot of progress scientifically that refutes some of the antiquated ideas of what it means to sing properly. You mean to tell me that they're all doing it wrong and a choice few are doing it right? Yeah, right

Tyler
September 16 2006, 6:57PM

Yes, Whitney had a sound. She recorded her debut. Clive told her it was too black and made her record it again. Everyone knows that. It's why many black folks didn't like Whitney at first. Revisionist history is a bitch huh? She was NOT a darling in the black community when she first dropped, because Clive never let her do any black radio interviews or anything. He solely wanted her to be for white folks.

Learn your history people. Her voice is amazing. True. Her talent is incomparable. True. But she was a fantastically wasted talent that has never reached the true peak of what she's capable of.

Similarly, her public image was created. Whitney grew up in Jersey. She was not rich. Cissy did not make that much money singing back up, so understand that Whitney may have always been ghetto and when she met Bobby that was perhaps a catalyst for her being "closer to her true self". We don't know. But to blame a man for a woman's downfall is patriarchal nonsense. She deserves more than that.

marcus e.
September 16 2006, 6:58PM

Miss.WH!!! I've witness drag artist perform to her golden voice on numerous occassions. The energy and detail of every performance witnessed seems to burst from their souls like they were payin homeage to a queen. Therefore. She is loved, as we all are by GOD. The divine has and can substain. Her mortal being has a purpose.

ks25
September 16 2006, 7:19PM

Take into account most of time since 2000 when Whitney has sung live she was not sober!!!!!!! In 2004 Beijing concert you can tell she was totally sober singing her heart out there. It is on youtube and you could hear for your self that her voice when sober is still there. Of course there some change but Whitney is full of surprises. For instance, in Zurich 1999, and Las Vegas 2000, I swear her voice , and high soprano range was like 1986 Whitney, no crack in her voice, no raspy note pure flawless throughout the whole concert singing all over the octave scale. If Whitney is truly sober her voice will be there I guarantee you that! I am familiar with all of Whitney performances so I know what the woman is capable on a good sober and healthy day even now!

Jeff
September 17 2006, 1:55AM

It just goes to show you can't please everyone. When she first came out, some of us thought she was too white. We thought she was a sell out white-washed pop star. Now we say she's too ghetto. I wish her the best and hope she'll do what she needs to do. She's certainly paid her dues and doesn't owe anyone anything.

Larry
September 17 2006, 2:15AM

All this talk...and I don't see one sentence about on 60 something lady that can knock you off your ass. Named Bettye Lavette...granted she has been a rather obscure singer for her 45 year career. but all y'all should check out "I've Got My Own Hell to Raise" if at all things...not ever having a serious R&b hit other that "Let Me Down Easy" in 1965 maybe having perserved her voice...she might actually sing better than she ever has..

Reality
September 17 2006, 4:14AM

Ying Yang Ying Yang. I must start by saying that I am sick of the word ghetto. Though I may not be from the ghetto, I can say that some of the greatest things come from the ghetto. I personally love Whitneys mix of rough edges and classic diva. I personally dont think Blacks know what the hell they want. One minute a person is too white and then she is too black and then she is too ghetto. No one knows this woman. And we all make mistakes. Its just that the world couldnt care less about most of our lives enough to report it or air it! Im sure the woman has faced many challenges that lead to her problems. Until we walk in her shoes, chill out. However I dont think most naysayers of Whitney couldnt even begin to get half his foot in. Pay attention to your own filthy closets before speaking your self projected trash on someone else.

ks25
September 17 2006, 12:36PM

Whitney has been hated on since day one she probably always will but one thing you can't take away from her is her voice. Whether she sounds like a flawless technical angel or sounds like raspy soulful gospel singer the woman can blow! I have not seen yet any singer that could match her diversity, style, power, range, vibrato, flawless diction, and soul yet!!!! Like Whitney said there will never be another Aretha, there will never be another Barbara, there WILL NEVER BE ANOTHER ME! Her legacy the haters or no one can talk away from her also her strength as a woman. Whitney is very strong and ambitious innerly and all this drama she has been through only made her stronger and more determined. Whitney is not the type of sista going to sit at home, and think life is over because she divorced Bobby, and somebody think she can't comeback and sing. Tell her No, she will show she can!

saint james
September 18 2006, 11:41AM

I think when people refer to someone as "ghetto" they are speaking of the embarrassment factor that accompanies people who are traveling in the mainstream and making faux pas that make colored folk cringe. I can only assume that the expectaion of most of us is that our celebrities represent us well in the public eye. I don't think people have a problem with being urban or edgy like, Patti Labelle or Samuel L. Anderson, Jada Pinckett and many others. Ghetto refers to the inappropraite speech, demeanor and behavior that crosses the line when in the eye of the majority public.
I suppose there is still some value in being able to float between both worlds; white and black and do so effectively. Oprah Winfrey has done this quite well. She is clearly black with a professional side and yet maintains her flava and she is not uncomfortable showing it on TV. Who she really is behind the scenes we don't know. We just do not want to see her actin' a fool on TV.

Brandy
September 18 2006, 11:43AM

I would like to say that I think that it is good that she is trying to make a come back. Lets just get a couple of things straight that people tend to forget. When she met Bobby she was an adult, therefor no one can place the blame on him. I am not taking up for him but we as humans are all given choices. From early child hood we are told not to use drugs. Therefore it is not like we are not educated on drugs and we know what drugs can and will do to people. Lets face it we all know someone or know of someone who is on drugs and look at what happened to them. Not only that but some of us may even have substance abusers in our family. So what I am saying is that she was a willing, consensual participate in there usage. Lets be real. Not only that but who are we to judge her We all sin and fall short of the glory of God so therefore "judge ye not" be cause we all will be judge one day and Im sure that you do not live in glass houses if so why are you still here on this earth?

ks25
September 19 2006, 7:07AM

Whitney has never blamed Bobby for her drug abuse never will. There is something innerly going on with Whitney to make her choose drugs and choose and stay in a dysfunctional marriage for so so long! Eventhough, Whitney is beautiful, multi-talented, and rich she actually human with insecurities and issues like we all have. It was very common and Whitney generation as well as our own to experience with drugs, but the difference is she just did not experiment she became an addict! The only thing is Whitney is life is under microscope everything she does! Sure Being Bobby Brown took to far, but what about all the lies that were told to ruin her reputation when all she wanted was to sing! The media from jump were very hard and difficult with Whitney just because she was Cissy Houston daughter, Dionne Warwick cousin, and Aretha Franklin goddaughter.

reality
September 19 2006, 11:51PM

Ghetto has many different meanings. Acting innappropriate cannot be isolated to ghetto. I grew up in the suburbs. Ive seen alot of innappropriate behavior masked behind diamonds, expensive homes, and formal education. Using incorrect english is not isolated to ghetto. Most British people think most Americans speak incorrect English and they do. It depends on who you ask. We also have to stop relying on a few Black people to act as poster children for Black people of the world. We also need to be clear on what ghetto really is, its origin and really ask what class is really all about. Not the illusions of class, but Class.

saint james
September 20 2006, 1:15PM

No, ghetto is not limited to inapropriate behavior It is the word used to describe the reaction to the emabrassment black people feel when bad behavior is displayed in the media. Ghetto is only what we call it. It is a slang term. The word ghetto and its origins are so far removed from what it means to black folk in the coloquial sense today. I was born and raised in the Ghettos of Boston and I am well able to represent myself respectfully in almost any setting. In your comment you state the obvious. Of course not all black people speak with poor diction, nor do we all use poor grammar. I don't think anyone is suggesting that we let a few black people represent all of us; but the fact is a few of them do. When they misbehave or "act the fool" in public they will be labeled as Ghetto. Twenty tears ago we may have used the word "ignorant". It is unfortunate that we are yet viewed as credits or negatives to our race in the USA but it is what it is.

angiebeee
September 20 2006, 4:13PM

It amazes me to hear all the comments made about Whitney Houston. We act as if we have not had a mother, sister cousin or friend dealing with a no good man and substance abuse. Whitney Houston was raised in the church. I truly beleive that she loves the Lord. As a result, She will be fine. We should pray foor her. And I can honestly say. I can't wait to hear her sing again. She is my girl!!!

a reader
September 20 2006, 4:16PM

When white people cross the line of appropriate behavior in public their own calls them "trailer park trash" or "white trash". Black folk use the word ghetto.

Bobby Brown
September 20 2006, 5:49PM

To My Beloved Whitney,

Where's my crack pipe bitch?

lol

Bobby Brown

Melenik
September 20 2006, 9:53PM

As for comments of trailer park trash and ghetto. Have you noticed that it is linked to being poor. That statement implies that the only inappropriate behavior is that of poor people. That is a problem. Lets stop using what white people do to justify the actions of Black people. And better yet, lets get out of the inferiority complex of being overly conscious of how Blacks are percieved by non Blacks. It always boils down to what Whites think of us. How about what Blacks think of themselves. Rest to sure. Blacks are damned if they do and damned if they dont. If we are "classy", whites will write it off as not being "Black Black", discrediting that Black can be associated with class. People pay attention to only those things that support a current belief. There is an invested interest in ones belief system particullarly if ones existence of supremecy relies on degrading or discrediting another.

reality
September 21 2006, 2:21PM

Its pretty deep for someone to be embarrassed in who they are based on ones difficulties seen on tv. Yes, there are ignorant people who will take what is displayed on tv and use it as a source to "what is it to be black in the world", but how rediculous that is. Whitney is a dynamic woman and shes human. To define her based on her recent struggles is so unfair. We should not forget the doors she has opened and her involvment as a humanitarian. Much of it unreported. As for the word ghetto being far removed from its origin. Well, so is the world Nigger. Should we continue to call ourselves that because it has become slang. "Acting a fool". There is nothing more foolish to me than a Black American referring to each other as a Nigger, buying products from companies who once made your grandparents walk through the back door, being consumers rather than producers of your own products, and following a form of a religion passed down by ones Slavemaster. Now thats what I call acting a fool. But its accepted.

saint james
September 21 2006, 3:14PM

When my people act like fools in public the main person who is insulted and embarrassed is me. Personally, I am not overly conscious of how white people percieve me (or us as a people) but there must be some concern for how our individual and collective behavior is percieved by the the majority. If you are saying that you have no concern then I don't believe you. We cannot afford to give our people passes for riddiculous behavior simply because we don't care what others think. My point was that every people group has a derogatory name for the worst behavior among themselves. The terms trailer park trash, etc. is linked to the economic staus of people but is is directly linked to behavior that reveals the lack of decorum and social ignorance that is assumed often accompanies poor people. There is another term that is used to describe poor people of good character..."The salt of the earth.."

saint james
September 21 2006, 4:35PM

Reality,

In NO WAY is the word NIGGER far removed from its origins. That word has the same connotation despite some of us attempting to diminish it by changing the spelling. Don't you contradict yourself by saying that black folk using the word nigger is "acting a fool"? If the word is different now why is that acting a fool? I never stated I was ashamed of who I was because of anyone's behavior. I am proud of who I am and want others to carry themselves in a proud and respectable manner. When we fail to do so we live beneath our heritage. We cannot afford to live unto ourselves. My thoughts are so far beyond Whitney Houston. Uplift the race.

reality
September 22 2006, 1:19AM

No Saint James You misunderstood me. Im not saying that I feel that its far removed. Im disgusted at the fact that Blacks have popularized it. Im simply stating what many people believe.Most would say that it is far removed justify its usage by labeling it slang or changing the spelling. Using that word loosely is "acting a fool". Of course it is much bigger than Whitney and Whitney is in position to uplift the race and be an even greater role model. There are many out there hurt, abused, neglected, and have turned to drugs, food, sex, cigarettes and many other addictions as an escape from reality and problems. There is no better role model than one who overcomes great obstacles. We are watching a woman in progress. Lets wait until she completes her story before we sum her up and see her as an embarrassment. Once again, are we so desperate for a role model that we would prefer an illusion on tv rather than a full scope of a real life full of trial and obstacles. The job of being famous is full of illusion

saint james
September 22 2006, 1:17PM

Reality,

Okay, I see. I understand you now. You are correct about fame and celebrity being an illusion. You are also right about Whitney and all of us being works in progress. The only reason Whitney is being crticized at all is because she has chosen to live her private life in the public eye.
There are many other celebs who have the same issues or much worse than hers. They do not expose them on a so- called reality show. She did. I would not say that Whitney is a role model although I'm sure some people see her as such. She is a representative of the people whether we like it or not. Her fame has made her such.

I, like you am repulsed by the word nigger being used by black folk. I am deeply offended for my grandparents, parents and all of our people who marched, protested, were eaten by dogs, hung by klansmen, went through back doors and were denied access, opportunity and human dignity when it is called anything but a hateful epithet.

reality
September 23 2006, 2:41AM

Saint James. Absolutely. It was an ill advised move to do such a reality show. When I look at things Ive done in my own life, I thank God it wasnt on tv. But Ive always been one to focus on personal development. What if someone saw me at a certain stage? And I can bet that Whitney has had her moments of shame looking back now particullarly if she is sober. Unfortunately she cant take it back, but it can serve as a great glimpse and lesson into the chaos, disfunction, and sadness that can go on behind the smiles, flickering lights, politically correct PR, and perfectly airbrushed photos. And that goes beyond Entertainment. Dont get me wrong, I love the illusions of Whitney as well but I must say that she is alot more interesting to me now and Im anxious to see what becomes of her story as years go by. Im not religious but I really think God has a hand on her and her plight will serve a greater purpose going beyond the scope of a great entertainer. A testimony is brewing.

ks25
September 24 2006, 11:45AM

How many times I going to say this, it was not Whitney's idea to do show and she was asked to do it by her shady husband. Ask yourself why was Whitney protrayed liked that when the show was suppose to be about Bobby Brown? Toni Braxton even caught up to this and she said it was purposely make one person look more stable then other. Least Whitney is admitting she has a problem and getting help for it. But Bobby has been denial since one and always says the drug he uses is just weed yeah right!!! Whitney is entertainer and a role model to many singers trying to come to business whether people like her lifestyle. Girls on Idol and around the world singer her songs and want to perform and sing like Whitney around the world. Whitney is not no activist and she does not represent the entire race!!!!! She is legend and people have to respect that despite her personal choices.

agatha
October 4 2006, 4:58AM

whitney i miss your lovely voice. i know that u can do it on your own once you get rid of Bobby Brown. welcome back whitney & quick recovery

agatha

Blossom
October 5 2006, 2:15PM

Thank God you are back. Am so happy for whitney, please concentrate on your career, baby and self. I believe in you and am a lover of your music. Waiting to hear you sing once again.

Gregory Swann
October 12 2006, 2:12PM

I REBUKE ALL THE NEGATIVE THINGS THAT WERE SAID ABOUT WHITNEY HOUSTON IN THE NAME OF JESUS CHRIST. WHITNEY HOUSTON WILL ALWAYS BE A BLESS WOMAN OF GOD IN THE NAME OF JESUS. AND WHITNEY WILL RECIEVE DOUBLE FOR ALL HER TROUBLES IN JESUS NAME. THE BODY OF CHRIST WILL ALWAY CONTINUE TO PRAY AND INTERSEDE FOR THE WOMAN OF GOD IN JESUS HOLY, HOLY NAME. WE SEND OUT ALL THE BLESSING OVER YOUR LIFE WHITNEY IN THE NAME OF FATHER THE SON AND THE HOLY SPIRIT.

Gillie
October 15 2006, 4:42AM

We dont know wether her divorce would give a comeback for her.If she still stick to her drug addiction it will bring her all the way the down to bottom. I think she would never make a comeback....it's too late and she is getting old to give a beautiful voice.......

Kervin Fondren
October 22 2006, 10:37AM

God bless you Whitney! You will always be a start to me and the world! You've shown the world that no human is immune to drug abuse and problems. Some of us are addicted to sex, drugs, work,etc. We all have addictions! Yet, the Bible tells us that we should not judge unless we be judged. I wish you the best and look forward to your comeback concerts!!!! I will always Love You!

Kervin Fondren of Birmingham, Alabama

whisper
December 17 2006, 5:22AM

I just watched the reality show for the first time in my life. When Whitney became popular back in the 80's, I was stunned by her voice and her beauty. I was a teen and would stand infront of the mirror while listening to her sing, and try to sing like her. (we've all done this, Im sure) I am not one to keep up on celeb. gossip and rarely watch TV.

I cant believe what I just saw. over the years I've heard of her drug problems and abusive relationship. my GOD. She looked terrible and acted like no person I have ever met. It was as though Bobby was dragging her down and encouraging her to act like a low class idiot.

They were in a restaurant and the conversation turned to flatulence and bathroom humor, I use the term humor very loosely. I'm disgusted. I logged onto the computer to see if there were any updates.

Thank God shes dumping him. Her children deserve so much better, as does she. Good luck to her. she has so much to live for. her kids will better off and will be proud of her for getting better.

charmel
October 24 2007, 10:55AM

I loved whitney houston's music and I am sure when she comes back it will be with a bang! She can't do it by her self, but with the help of the lord on her side she will make it through!!!!!!!!!