whitney houston

“Waiting To Exhale” Cast: Where Are They Now?

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In 1995, Waiting to Exhale took the world by storm. The classic movie offered a poignant exploration of friendship, love, and self-discovery among four black women. Directed by Forest Whitaker and based on Terry McMillan’s bestselling novel, the movie not only struck a chord with viewers but also showcased a talented ensemble cast. It soon became a staple in homes around the world. Moreover, the film’s soundtrack is still widely adored today. Almost three decades later, fans still wonder: where are the stars of Waiting to Exhale now? Here’s what they’ve been up to.

Whitney Houston (Savannah Jackson)

Whitney Houston’s portrayal of Savannah Jackson, a successful television producer struggling with the complexities of love and career, was equal parts powerful and relatable. After Waiting to Exhale, she continued her incredibly successful music career. She also ventured further into acting, starring in films like The Preacher’s Wife, Cinderella, and Sparkle. Houston passed away in 2012, leaving behind a legacy of unparalleled talent, and an unmistakable voice. 

Angela Bassett (Bernadine Harris)

In Waiting to Exhale, Angela Bassett took on the role of Bernadine Harris, a woman dealing with betrayal, and rebuilding her life. As is expected of Bassett, her performance was nothing short of mesmerizing. After the film, her career continued to grow exponentially. Bassett is now an Oscar winner, and known for her powerful, gripping roles in film and television alike. Decades after Waiting to Exhale, and her drive hasn’t stopped. Angela Bassett’s talents continue to shine, earning her numerous accolades and admiration from audiences around the globe.

Loretta Devine (Gloria Matthews)

At the time, Loretta Devine, like much of the Waiting to Exhale cast, was already a household name. She starred as Gloria Matthews, the supportive friend and single mother facing her own romantic challenges. She has since then remained a prominent figure in Hollywood, appearing in numerous films and TV shows. Now in her 70s, Devine is still capturing the audience’s attention, with no indication of slowing down. 

Lela Rochon (Robin Stokes)

Lela Rochon’s portrayal of Robin Stokes resonated deeply with audiences. Robin Stokes was a woman searching for love and fulfillment, while juggling her personal demons. Since Waiting to Exhale, Rochon has continued to work in entertainment, particularly in television. She will star in a lead role in the upcoming BET+ drama, The Family Business: New Orleans.  

Gregory Hines (Marvin King)

Gregory Hines brought charm and sophistication to the role of Marvin King, Gloria’s neighbor and love interest. Before Waiting to Exhale, Hines was already a respected figure in the entertainment industry. In the same vein, he continued to showcase his talent in several projects. Hines sadly passed away in 2003 as a result of liver cancer. He left behind a catalog of incredible performances and contributions to the arts. 

Dennis Haysbert (Kenneth Dawkins)

The iconic Dennis Haybert played Kenneth Dawkins, a man entangled in a complicated affair. His portrayal definitely added depth and complexity to the film. Since then, Haysbert’s career has soared, particularly in television. He became widely recognized for his roles in projects like Soul Food and, most notably, 24. His illustrious career spans film, television, theater, and voice acting. 

The post “Waiting To Exhale” Cast: Where Are They Now? appeared first on HotNewHipHop.

Offset Reveals Just How Sweet Whitney Houston Was When He Danced In Her Music Video

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These days it would be pretty hard to not notice Offset appearing in something. The rapper rose to prominence as a member of Atlanta hip hop trio Migos around a decade ago and hasn’t left the public view since. Last year he released his new album Set It Off which did impressive numbers. It spawned hits like “SAY MY GRACE” with Travis Scott and “JEALOUSY” with Cardi B. The track “WORTH IT” featuring Don Toliver recently re-entered the Hot 100 and sits at #93 this week.

But during a recent appearance on The Jennifer Hudson Show, Offset recalled a time before he was famous. He told the story of his mother seeing a billboard advertising auditions for a Whitney Houston music video. I pulled up. I remember my mama told I’ll never forget, ‘When the music come on, just go out there and do your thing. I was smaller than everybody. Everybody was 11 or something, and I was like 8. Then I did it,” he begins. Clearly something about his dancing impressed Houston. “I remember she came from the back and pointed me out. When we shot the video, she was just a nice, sweet soul. Bobby Brown was cool too. He was making us laugh. He was cool. Yeah, both of them. I got a lot of cameos too,” he revealed. Check out the music video that a young Offset danced in below.

Read More: Cardi B And Offset’s Georgia Home Swatted By Police: Watch

Offset Talks Meeting Whitney Houston

After a few months of questions about their relationship, Cardi B and Offset seem to be righting the ship. Things started back in December when when fans noticed they had unfollowed each other on Instagram. But Cardi just released her new single “Like What” last week. The Migos rapper served as the director of the music video attached to the song, which fans had a variety of reactions to.

What do you think of Offset appearing in a Whitney Houston music video before he was famous? Are you surprised to hear that he was a childhood dancer before becoming a successful rapper? Let us know in the comment section below.

Read More: Offset’s Gifts To Cardi B Blasted By PETA

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Sony Music Sues Producers of Whitney Houston Biopic Over Unpaid Music Licensing Fee

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i wanna dance with someboy

The producers of Whitney Houston’s biopic, I Wanna Dance with Somebody, are being sued by Sony Music Entertainment (SME) for not paying to use the late singer’s music in the film.

Music Business Worldwide notes a California lawsuit stating Boston-based Anthem Films, NYBO Productions, and Los Angeles-based Black Label Media entered a licensing deal days before the film’s release. The filmmakers never paid the agreed licensing fees with the deal in place.

“Unlike other types of films, musical biopics by their nature require use of the subject musician’s music, as it is nearly impossible to explain the importance of a musician’s creative genius or unique style and talent without the use of the musician’s music,” the legal team states. “To date, Anthem has not paid the fees, or any portion of the fees, due under the agreements.”

SME seeks unspecific damages, including potential profit loss, citing the producers’ “willful and deliberate infringement.”

The post Sony Music Sues Producers of Whitney Houston Biopic Over Unpaid Music Licensing Fee first appeared on The Source.

The post Sony Music Sues Producers of Whitney Houston Biopic Over Unpaid Music Licensing Fee appeared first on The Source.

The Whitney Houston Biopic’s Producers Are Being Sued By Sony Music For Alleged Copyright Infringement

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whitney houston
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Years after the release of the 2022 Whitney Houston biopic, Whitney Houston: I Wanna Dance With Somebody, Sony Music Entertainment has sued the film’s producers for allegedly failing to pay still for using Houston’s music, according to Rolling Stone.

Specifically, Sony has filed a lawsuit against Anthem Films, Nybo Productions, and Black Label Media, claiming that payments for including Houston’s catalog in the movie should have been paid by July 2023. The publication noted that the exact amount owed is unknown.

“As a result of Anthem’s failures, Defendants’ use of the SME Recordings in the Film has been unauthorized, and Defendants have had no legal right to use the SME Recordings,” Sony’s claim said. “Despite being given notice of their infringing conduct, Defendants have continued to distribute and otherwise exploit the SME Recordings in connection with the Film without authorization.”

“Defendants’ conduct has caused and continues to cause substantial and irreparable harm to Plaintiffs and the estate of Whitney Houston while enriching Defendants at the expense of Plaintiffs and the estate of Whitney Houston,” it added.

The producers are now being accused of “direct copyright infringement” and “vicarious copyright infringement,” but both parties did not return Rolling Stone‘s request for comment on the lawsuit matter.

First Things First: A Timeline Of Black Music History Milestones

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Black History Month
Getty Image/Merle Cooper

When it comes to diversity and inclusion in our everyday lives, we’re reminded both of how far we have come and how far we still have to go. While there have been immeasurable societal strides, particularly within the last few years, the work won’t end until all races, ethnicities, and genders feel seen, accepted, and included.

This fact is especially pertinent in the arts, as this portion of the culture largely serves as a microcosm for the world at large. Many of the artists we know and love had their share of struggles when it came to inclusion, yet their hard work and dedication to their craft paid off in historic spades.

As Black History Month commences, take a look at some of the iconic “firsts” in music history throughout genres. Black musicians helped to pave the way for artists all over to create magic of their own, and continue to do so decades — even centuries — later.

GENERAL

1890: George W. Johnson is the first Black person to record a best-selling phonograph record. His novelty vaudeville hit “The Whistling Coon” showcased his vocal abilities in more ways than one.

1955: Marian Anderson is the first Black singer to perform with the New York Metropolitan Opera.

BLUES

1920: Mamie Smith’s “Crazy Blues” is heralded as the first significant blues song ever recorded by a Black musician. It was entered into the Grammy Hall of Fame in 1994 and was entered into the Library of Congress’s National Recording Registry in 2005.

1969: Blues trumpeter WC Handy becomes the first Black musician to be featured on a U.S. postage stamp.

JAZZ

1925: Louis Armstrong records his Hot Five and Hot Seven combos, considered by many as the pieces of music that kicked off the jazz revolution.

1958: Ella Fitzgerald and Count Basie become the first Black musicians to win a Grammy Award. Both artists took home two trophies.

1992: Thanks to her album Unforgettable… With Love, Natalie Cole becomes the first Black woman to win the Grammy Award for Album Of The Year. So far, there have only been two other Black women to take this award home: Whitney Houston and Lauryn Hill.

GOSPEL

2018: Due to her work on the SpongeBob SquarePants musical, Yolanda Adams is the first gospel artist to be nominated for a Tony Award. (Best Original Score (Music and/or Lyrics) Written for the Theatre.)

COUNTRY

1971: Charley Pride is the first (and so far last) Black artist to win the Country Music Association’s most prestigious award, Entertainer Of The Year. In 2000, he became the first Black inductee at the Country Music Hall Of Fame. Harmonica player DeFord Bailey is the second (and only other) Black artist to be inducted into this prestigious academy.

2020: Mickey Guyton becomes the first Black female musician to be nominated for a country music Grammy Award in a solo performance category: Best Country Solo Performance for her song “Black Like Me.” (The Pointer Sisters won the award in 1974 for their writing work, not their music.)

ROCK

1977: Black Death — widely acknowledged as the first Black heavy metal band — is formed.

1986: The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inaugural class is announced, and the first Black musicians inducted are Chuck Berry, James Brown, Ray Charles, Sam Cooke, Fats Domino, and Little Richard.

1987: Aretha Franklin is the first Black woman (and first woman) inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

1990: Thanks to their song “Cult of Personality,” Living Colour becomes the first Black band (and first musicians) to win the Grammy for Best Hard Rock Performance. They would go on to win it again in 1991.

HOUSE

1984: “On & On,” Jesse Saunders’ single with Vince Lawrence, becomes the first record featuring a house DJ to ever be pressed and sold to the public.

1987: Steve Silk Hurley’s single “Jack Your Body” becomes the first house track to top the UK charts.

POP

1950: Nat King Cole becomes the first Black solo artist to have a No. 1 hit on the Billboard charts. His song “Mona Lisa” hit the top of the now-defunct “Best Sellers In Stores” chart.

1958: Tommy Edwards becomes the first Black artist to have a No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 for his song “It’s All In The Game.” A year later, The Platters became the first Black group to have a No. 1 on the Hot 100 with their song, “Smoke Gets In Your Eyes.”

1983: Michael Jackson’s “Billie Jean” is the first music video by a Black artist to play on MTV, which was heavily focused on rock in their earliest years. In 1991, MJ was also the first Black artist (and first artist) to have a song debut at No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100, thanks to his song “You Are Not Alone.”

1987: Whitney Houston becomes the first Black woman (and first woman) to have an album debut at No. 1, thanks to her eponymous album. In 1992, she also became the first Black artist (and first artist) to have an album sell a million copies in a single week with The Bodyguard soundtrack.

R&B

1972: Isaac Hayes becomes the first Black artist to win an Academy Award in a non-acting category. The “Theme From Shaft” won the Oscar for Best Original Song. He is also the first musician to have written and performed their own Oscar-winning song.

1974: Stevie Wonder is the first Black artist to win the Grammy Award for Album Of The Year for Innervisions.

HIP-HOP

1980: “Rapper’s Delight” by Sugarhill Gang becomes the first rap song to chart on Billboard’s Hot 100, peaking at No. 36.

1989: DJ Jazzy Jeff & The Fresh Prince win the first Grammy in the hip-hop genre. “Parents Just Don’t Understand” won for Best Rap Performance, but the duo famously boycotted the ceremony to protest the historic honor not being televised.

1990: Tone Loc becomes the first rapper to be nominated in the Best New Artist category.

1999- Lauryn Hill becomes the first hip-hop artist to win a Grammy for Album of the Year for her sole solo LP, The Miseducation Of Lauryn Hill. She is still the only woman hip-hop artist to do so.

2006: Three 6 Mafia becomes the first hip hop group to win an Oscar for Best Original Song. (“It’s Hard Out Here For A Pimp” from Hustle & Flow.) Per an interview with Variety, Juicy J recalled the win seeming “unreal.” (“We didn’t prepare no speech because we didn’t think we was gonna win,” he said.)

2018: Kendrick Lamar becomes the first rapper to win the Pulitzer Prize for Music, thanks to his album DAMN.

Kelly Clarkson, The Beatles, Justin Timberlake, And Other Musicians Had Some Of TV’s Most Impactful Moments Ever, Says The Emmys

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The Beatles 1965
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A few days ago, The Academy Of Television Arts & Sciences (aka the Television Academy, the organization behind the Primetime Emmy Awards), shared a list of the “Top 75 Most Impactful Television Moments.” As for how the list was decided, they explained, “In celebration of the Emmy Awards’ 75th Anniversary, we invited Television Academy members to review several hundred programs and news moments submitted by our Peer Group Executive Committees, and to then vote on those they felt have had the greatest impact on the viewing public over the past 75 years.”

Music has long played a major role in TV history, and this new list makes that clear. Two music moments made the top 10: The Beatles’ iconic performance on The Ed Sullivan Show is No. 3, behind only the Apollo 11 moon landing at No. 1 and 9/11 news coverage at No. 2. At No. 9 is the first music video that aired on MTV, The Buggles’ “Video Killed The Radio Star.”

Just outside the top 10, at No. 11, is an Elvis Presley performance on The Ed Sullivan Show. Other notable moments include Live Aid (No. 37); the first season finale of American Idol, which saw Kelly Clarkson named the winner (No. 44); the debut of Michael Jackson’s “Thriller” video on MTV (No. 48); Justin Timberlake exposing Janet Jackson’s breast during the Super Bowl XXXVIII Halftime Show (No. 61); and Whitney Houston singing the “Star Spangled Banner” before Super Bowl XXV (No. 65).

This list was compiled and shared ahead of the 75th Primetime Emmy Awards, which airs tonight (January 15) at 8 p.m. ET (learn how to watch the show here). Ahead of then, check out the full list here.

From Beyonce To Aaliyah: Songs Fans Probably Didn’t Know Were Covers

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Beyonce, Aaliyah, Whitney Houston

Many fan-favorite tunes are covers of earlier melodies created by pioneers that may have been unknown by some fans. Some include top hits sung by chart-topping artists such as Aaliyah, Beyoncé, Salt-N-Pepa, and more.

Beyoncé – ‘If I Were A Boy’

Queen Bey surprised fans with her 2008 hit “If I Were A Boy,” a cover of BC Jean and Toby Gad’s song. This rendition reached No. 3 on the US Billboard Hot 100 chart and garnered multi-platinum certifications in various countries.

Salt- N- Pepa’s ‘Whatta Man’

Salt N Pepa’s timeless hit “Whatta Man” was a cover of Linda Lyndell’s 1968 original. The duo’s version reached impressive positions on the Billboard Hot 100, the UK Singles Chart, and the UK Dance Singles Chart.

Aaliyah’s ‘At Your Best’

Aaliyah’s 1994 hit “At Your Best” was a beautiful rendition of The Isley Brothers’ 1976 smash hit “At Your Best (You Are Love).” The single spent weeks on the Billboard charts, peaking at No. 3 in September 1994.

Destiny’s Child – ‘Emotion’

Destiny’s Child, the iconic girl group, also tried their hand at covering songs. In 2002, they released their version of Samantha Sang’s 1978 hit, “Emotion,” which became a top ten hit on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.

Lauryn Hill’s ‘Killin’ Me Softly’

Lauryn Hill captivated audiences in 1996 with her rendition of Roberta Flack’s “Killing Me Softly.” This cover topped the Mainstream Top 40 chart, leaving an indelible mark on music history.

Whitney Houston’s “I Will Always Love You”

Whitney Houston’s 1992 rendition of “I Will Always Love You” is considered a classic. 

However, not many people know that the original belongs to Dolly Parton. Houston’s emotional tribute to Bobby Brown took the song to new heights.

Aretha Franklin’s “Respect”

Aretha Franklin’s iconic anthem “Respect” won her a Grammy and became a major feminist anthem. But it was originally written, and performed by the late music great Otis Redding in 1965.

These surprising covers remind us of the innovation and creativity that artists bring to their craft. While making a song, they pay homage to the original creators and introduce these timeless melodies to a new generation of listeners.

What’s The Problem? 

In the world of hip-hop, sampling has been a long-standing tradition. 

However, there are concerns about the overuse of sampling by newer artists, which some argue leads to a lack of originality in the genre. Hip-hop fans are divided on the issue, with some appreciating the homage paid to older tracks, while others feel it stifles the growth and creativity of the genre. 

Goodie Mob Gets Real

Sampling has been a prominent element of hip-hop, and artists like Goodie Mob have witnessed its impact. In an exclusive interview with SOHH, members of Goodie Mob discussed their perspectives on hip-hop sampling, the state of the modern hip-hop world, and the influence of Drake’s success.

The post From Beyonce To Aaliyah: Songs Fans Probably Didn’t Know Were Covers appeared first on SOHH.com.

Sharon Osbourne Claims Whitney Houston Once Accused Her of ‘Trying to F–k’ Bobby Brown

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Bobbi Sharon Whitney

Sharon Osbourne recently shared a wild story about a time when legendary singer Whitney Houston accused her of wanting her then-husband Bobby Brown. Sharon says Whitney was finishing her sound check and noticed Bobby sitting next to Sharon when she interrupted herself onstage to ask Sharon,”Mrs Osbourne, are you trying to f**k my husband?” Sharon says she ran down the aisle to profess her innocence when Whitney noticed Sharon’s pave diamond ring to which Sharon tossed at her as a distraction.

The Daily Mail reports:

Sharon Osbourne has revealed that Whitney Houston once accused her of trying to sleep with her husband Bobby Brown, leaving her so flustered by the shock encounter that she gave the late singer her ring in an attempt to calm her.

The former X Factor judge, 71, said the confusion occurred during rehearsals for VH1 show, Divas Duets, in 2003, when Whitney was rehearsing, and Bobby and their daughter Bobbi Kristina, ended up sitting alongside Sharon to watch.

According to Sharon however, her apparent closeness with Bobby didn’t sit too well with Whitney when she finished her sound check on-stage.

‘I was hosting the Divas for VH1 and I was at sound check and Whitney was up on stage doing her sound check,’ Sharon recalled on her family podcast, The Osbournes.

‘Her little girl obviously liked watching [our former MTV reality show] The Osbournes and she came up and sat next to me – gorgeous little thing. And then suddenly her dad came and sat the other side of me, Bobby.’

She continued: ‘Whitney’s up there singing and she stops singing and the track is still going, and slowly the track stops. And she goes, “Mrs Osbourne, are you trying to f**k my husband?” And I’m like, “No, no please, I’m not!”‘

Sharon, who had been married to Ozzy Osbourne for 21 years at the time, jumped out of her seat in panic and ran down the aisle professing her innocence.

‘I was going, “No no no, you don’t understand. I wasn’t”,’ she said.

Fortunately, her pave diamond ring saved her from further embarrassment, by distracting the singer, who demanded a closer look.

Sharon continued: ‘She goes, “Let me see that ring,” and I was like, “I’d love you to have it”.

‘I gave her the ring, threw it at her, and said, “I promise you, I’m not interested in your husband, I’m married!”‘

The post Sharon Osbourne Claims Whitney Houston Once Accused Her of ‘Trying to F–k’ Bobby Brown first appeared on The Source.

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Halle Bailey And DDG Dress Up As Whitney And Bobby, Tells People To Touch Grass

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Halloween, the time of the year when creativity and imagination run wild, often brings out the most spectacular costumes. This year, two notable artists, DDG and Halle Bailey, graced the occasion by dressing up as iconic legends Whitney Houston and Bobby Brown, paying a heartwarming tribute to the iconic music duo. This is another iconic look that they recreated, as the other day they dressed up as Tupac and Janet Jackson. DDG, a rapper and YouTuber known for his multifaceted talents, and Halle Bailey, also known as Disney’s Little Mermaid, decided to step into the shoes of Whitney and Bobby for Halloween this year. They definitely envoked the spirit of the legendary power couple. The tribute was visually on point as they recreated three of their iconic photos.

Halle Bailey took to social media to share the photos with her fans and well-wishers. In a post that radiated positivity and enthusiasm, she wrote, “I hope everyone has a safe and lovely Halloween!!! I had so much fun dressing up as legends this yearrr ✨ Get off Twitter, go dress up, touch grass, and have fun outside!!!!” Her message served as a gentle nudge to encourage people to immerse themselves in the joy of Halloween and escape the digital world for a while. “It’s the touch grass for me, this roughness I like it,” one person commented.

Read More: Halle Bailey’s “Baby Bump” Missing From Latest IG Post As Fans Continue To Speculate

Chloe And DDG As Whitney And Bobby

Dressing up as the iconic couple, Halle Bailey and DDG perfectly captured the essence of Whitney and Bobby, complete with the unforgettable style and grace that characterized their era. Whitney Houston, often referred to as the “Queen of Pop,” left a huge mark on the music industry with her astounding vocals, and Bobby Brown was a trailblazing artist in his own right. By donning these personas, the artists not only showcased their admiration for the legendary figures but also highlighted the timeless impact of Whitney Houston and Bobby Brown on music and pop culture. Their tribute serves as a testament to the enduring influence of these iconic artists, even in a new generation.

Nonetheless, fans were impressed with the pics. “The last photo of you two got me messed up cause y’all really look like them from the side!! Y’all are SERVING this Halloween!” one person commented. “The 7th photo is tripping me out. I thought it was the original photo for inspo and then I swiped over and literally spit my coffee out. These are so good,” another said. Halloween can be more than just a spooky holiday; it can be an opportunity to pay tribute to those who’ve left an indelible mark on our lives. What do you think of Halle and DDG’s costume?

Read More: Halle Bailey & DDG Win Halloween With Tupac & Janet Jackson “Poetic Justice” Tribute

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Dead or Alive: The Most Influential Artists Evident in Today’s Music

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Nicki Minaj, Michael Jackson, Beyonce

The music industry has been shaped and influenced by countless artists throughout history. These musicians have significantly impacted the industry, from their unique styles to powerful voices. Artists from the past continue to inspire and influence the music we hear today. Here’s a closer look at some of the most influential artists and their impact […]

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