Whitney Houston: A Role Model or Just an Imitation?

Whitney Houston, an icon in the music industry, has a significant influence on aspiring singers and performers. However, the question arises: should she be considered a role model, and if so, how can one emulate her while avoiding the pitfalls that led to her downfall?

Behavioral Habits and Communication

Some express fascination with Whitney Houston's lifestyle and habits, suggesting behaviors that are not recommendable for learning from a role model. For instance, one reader described engaging in drug-enhanced orgies and maintaining an extravagant appearance. Such habits have raised concerns about the appropriateness of emulating her lifestyle.

Another user challenged the idea of using someone who was heavily reliant on drugs as a role model, emphasizing the importance of finding inspiration from individuals who lead healthy and productive lives. This perspective highlights the need for aspirants to choose role models who demonstrate positive behaviors and lifestyles.

Hearing Whitney Houston's Musical Legacy

Even with the concerns about her lifestyle, Whitney Houston's music endures as a source of inspiration. Jackie Wilson, often referred to as the "King of RB," has been cited as a predecessors who embodied excellence in vocal performance. Artists like Jackie Wilson, as well as Whitney Houston, hold a special place in music history for their incredible vocal range and infectious stage presence.

Highlights from some of Whitney's iconic songs include:

"I Wanna Dance with Somebody (Who Loves Me) - " A powerful and soulful performance that showcases Houston's vocal abilities. "The Greatest Love of All" - " This song, with its uplifting message and standout vocal performance, is another testament to her incredible talent. "I Will Always Love You" - " Originally a duet with Dolly Parton, this song became a signature hit for Whitney, demonstrating her ability to touch hearts with heartfelt delivery.

Learning from Whitney Houston's Music

While Whitney Houston's recordings are a rich resource for learning, imitation alone does not guarantee success. Many have attempted to replicate her style but have fallen short. This is a clear indication that music should be approached with a deep understanding of the artist's personal style and techniques.

To truly learn from Whitney Houston, aspiring musicians should:

Study Her Live Performances - Watch her live performances and study her stage presence, vocal techniques, and emotional delivery. Practice Consistently - Like any other skill, consistent practice is key to developing mastery. Regular practice helps internalize her techniques and allows for personal interpretation. Create Your Own Style - While it's important to understand and appreciate Houston's techniques, developing your own unique style is crucial. Originality sets you apart and reflects your authenticity.

Embracing Imitation vs. Developing Originality

Imitation can be a valuable tool for learning and understanding what makes a great performance. However, striving to create your own music and style is the best way to stand out. As one expert noted, all stars rely on "star power" rather than just connecting with songs, making imitation a limited approach.

To truly emulate Houston's legacy, it's important to:

Internalize Techniques - Avoid merely mimicking her style. Focus on understanding and internalizing her techniques, allowing them to become part of your own unique sound. Build Authentically - Believe in what drives your desire to perform and let that drive your music. Authenticity is key to creating a compelling and unique musical identity. Stay Inspired by Her Voice - Whitney Houston's powerful voice and emotional delivery can be a source of great inspiration, but it's how you interpret and express that inspiration that truly matters.

Whitney Houston will always be remembered as an iconic member of the music industry. Her contributions to music should be celebrated, but one must also be cautious of the lifestyle and behavioral habits that led to her downfall. By focusing on the positive aspects of her legacy—such as her musical talent and the depth of her performances—and developing a unique style, aspiring musicians can honor Houston's memory without replicating her less inspiring behaviors.