Whitney Elizabeth Houston was born on August 9th, 1963 in Newark, New Jersey. She was an American singer, actress and film producer. She was often referred to as “The Voice” and is one of the most awarded and best-selling artists of all time, with sales in excess of 220 million records worldwide.

She is the daughter of gospel singer Cissy Houston and her cousin is the American singer Dionne Warwick. Whitney began singing in her local church at a young age, and her natural talent was immediately obvious to all who heard her.

Whilst still in high school Whitney sang backing vocals for both Chaka Khan and Lou Rawls. In 1983 at the age of 19 she signed to the Arista record label, and in 1985 her debut album ‘Whitney Houston’ was a massive best-seller containing three hit singles, elevating her into stardom.

She has won more than 400 awards, including six Grammys, and 22 American Music Awards, she also holds the Guinness World Record for most awarded female artist. Whitney has had seven consecutive number one hits, which is more than any other artist.

In 1992 she starred alongside Kevin Costner in the blockbuster movie ‘The Bodyguard‘.