Whitney Houston has returned to centre stage, for the first time in 10 years. She has every reason to smile. Her latest album, I Look To You, and tour, Nothing But Love, are about strength, optimism, gratitude and love. “My intention is – I want the people to feel that it’s coming from my heart,” Houston says. “At one point in time, I almost decided that I didn’t want to be in it anymore. “The music had changed, the industry had changed, the quality had changed. And I didn’t like it.” However, Houston felt encouraged by two things – supporters pleading for her to get back in the game and a new generation of powerhouse singers.
“Christina Aguilera, Jennifer Hudson and Beyoncé – they stirred my curiosity about coming back and making a record. But that’s only one part of the industry,” Houston says firmly. “To actually sing, perform and have people come to hear a real voice, a God-given gift, is really important to me.”