Whitney Houston, one of the most gifted performers of our time, passed away Feb. 11. While her career and life became a series of ups and downs, it appeared she was on the road to a comeback, much like Michael Jackson. Sadly, like Jackson, she never had the opportunity to experience that comeback.
Las Vegas paid tribute to Houston’s memory the evening of Feb. 11 at the Fremont Street Experience with many of Houston's fans gathered under the canopy to remember the singer.
The six-minute presentation featured portions of three songs by Houston, including “Greatest Love of All,” “One Moment in Time,” and “I Will Always Love You.” The crowd sang along as photographs of the singer flashed through the songs.
"I think like many people, we're just heartbroken. She was such an amazing talent, and at her best she was unbelievable," said Jeff Victor, president of Fremont Street Experience.
Gabe Ginsberg, Las Vegas photographer, tweeted, “@FREMONTSTREETLV just saw the dedication to Whitney Houston - Real Classy! Job Well Done!”
At the height of her fame, Houston performed in Las Vegas several times, including appearances at the MGM Grand Garden Arena and Paris Las Vegas.
Throughout the years, she was also honored in tribute shows, including Legends in Concert. The show always makes a point that there is no lip syncing during the performance.
According to the Las Vegas Sun newspaper, Houston’s ties to Las Vegas included:
- In 2009, the legendary pop diva was rumored to be in talks for a show or engagement on the Las Vegas Strip, but nothing materialized.
- At the Palms, Houston recorded her "I Look to You" album — her seventh and final studio compilation, which was released in 2009.
- She was also a performer in the 2002 and 2003 “VH1 Divas Las Vegas” shows at MGM Grand Garden Arena.
- Houston appeared at MGM Grand during her “Bodyguard World Tour,” Aug. 12, 1994.
According to the Grammy’s official website, grammy.com, Jennifer Hudson will perform the tribute for Huston during the 54th Annual Grammy Awards to air Feb. 12 on CBS. Check your local listings for times.
Visit www.vegasexperience.com for information about the Fremont Street Experience. Click here to see the video of the tribute artist for Huston.
Comments