By ARIEL PACHECO
The Lehman Center for the Performing Arts is set to deliver an unforgettable experience on January 19, as it presents “The Greatest Love of All,” a captivating tribute to the legendary Whitney Houston. This special event will feature the remarkable talent of South African artist Belinda Davids, whose stunning vocals and heartfelt performances have enchanted audiences worldwide.
According to the organizers, Davids’ tribute is not merely a concert but a heartfelt homage that brings to life the essence of Whitney Houston’s musical legacy. Audiences can expect renditions of some of Houston’s most cherished ballads, including “I Will Always Love You” and “Greatest Love of All.” These performances will be enhanced by a live band, backing vocalists, and choreographed dancers, contributing to an immersive evening that celebrates Houston’s unparalleled contributions to music.
Belinda Davids, who hails from Port Elizabeth, South Africa, found her passion for music in the nurturing confines of her gospel-influenced childhood. Growing up as one of seven siblings, her family’s support and encouragement helped cultivate her extraordinary talent. By the age of 14, she was already performing professionally, showcasing her exceptional four-octave vocal range and ability to traverse various musical genres.
Davids’ affinity for Whitney Houston began early in her life, famously sparked by the 1983 duet “Hold Me,” featuring Houston alongside Teddy Pendergrass. This seminal track left a lasting impression on Davids, ultimately inspiring her original single “We Go Together,” which topped South Africa’s RiSA charts for six consecutive weeks in 1996. Despite her lack of formal training, her raw talent quickly garnered recognition, establishing her as a formidable artist in the South African music scene.
Over the years, Belinda Davids has shared stages with numerous global icons, including the late Michael Jackson, for whom she opened during his History World Tour. In addition to performing alongside renowned groups like The Manhattans and The Temptations, Davids has enchanted audiences in diverse locations, including Dubai, London, and Hong Kong. Her striking vocal resemblance to Houston has compelled audiences to request impromptu acapella performances, further solidifying her reputation as a tribute artist.
In 2013, Davids assumed the role of Whitney Houston in “The Greatest Love of All – A Tribute to Whitney Houston,” a pivotal opportunity that catapulted her career onto the international stage. This role has taken her to over 30 countries, earning her a devoted following and establishing her as a beloved figure in the tribute circuit. Her performance of “I Will Always Love You” on Showtime at the Apollo in 2017 amassed millions of views, further demonstrating her powerful connection to Houston’s music. The following year, she debuted an orchestral concert series of “The Greatest Love of All” in the UK, collaborating with The National Philharmonic Concert Orchestra to create a sensational musical experience.
The Lehman Center for the Performing Arts, located on the campus of Lehman College/CUNY at 250 Bedford Park Boulevard West, Bronx, NY 10468, will host this highly anticipated event. Tickets are available in various price tiers, with VIP options priced at , , and . Interested attendees can purchase tickets by calling the Lehman Center box office at (718) 960-8833 or, for Spanish speakers, by dialing (718) 960-8835. The box office operates Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and tickets can also be bought starting four hours prior to showtime on weekends or online through the Lehman Center’s website.
In an era marked by the transient nature of popular music, events like “The Greatest Love of All” serve as poignant reminders of the timeless influence and artistic brilliance embodied by Whitney Houston. Belinda Davids’ interpretation not only pays tribute to a legendary artist but also invites a new generation to appreciate the powerful ballads that defined a musical era.
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