Last Wednesday, Whitney Houston performed a mini-concert for “Good Morning America” and thousands of diehard fans in New York City’s Central Park, her first appearance on television in seven years. Needless to say, fans and music critics alike waited anxiously to see whether disappointment or applause would greet Houston in what is considered to be the most anticipated comeback of the year. While Houston was criticized for losing her breath on stage and missing a few high notes, she brought an upbeat attitude and a surprisingly gorgeous appearance — especially for the former drug addict famously quoted saying, “Crack is whack.” It was obvious from the energy in the crowd that fans were glad to have the diva back.
And Houston is grateful for their constant support. Her latest album, I Look to You, is dedicated to her fans, and since most of them loved Houston for her sound a decade ago, she wisely chose to stick to her roots. I Look to You is undoubtedly a flashback album, with powerful ballads and ’90s dance pop tracks. Houston did not attempt to create a novel sound or try to reinvent herself. It is exactly what you would expect from Whitney. If you are a classic Houston fan, this album is what you’ve been waiting for.
Although her range during her live performance received scrutiny, her voice does not sound faded or overproduced on I Look to You. It remains as commanding and smooth as it was a decade ago on her famous The Bodyguard soundtrack. It is the truth behind the narrative that makes songs like title track “I Look to You” and “I Didn’t Know My Own Strength” compelling. Houston’s reckless, very public struggle with drugs as well as her tortuous relationship with ex-husband Bobby Brown give lyrics like, “And every road that I’ve taken/ Led to my regret/ And I don’t know if I’m gonna make it” more emotional for listeners.
Among slower ballads are high-energy tracks such as “Million Dollar Bill,” written by Alicia Keys. It is an upbeat, danceable song that is one of the best on the album. It is the only song that has potential to top charts. Other tracks are good, but fall short when it comes to becoming mainstream hits. “Nothin’ But Love” is dedicated to the “haters” and is reminiscent of Houston’s work in the early ’90s. “Call You Tonight” has a more modern sound, but has a country-like twanging that makes it a little questionable. An interesting addition to the album is the vocal abilities of Akon on the track “Like I Never Left.” This is the only real effort Houston makes to connect her self to the modern music scene. “A Song for You” starts out strong with just Houston’s distinct voice and piano, but then breaks into a dance beat that ruins the initial power of the track.
After listening to I Look to You, a younger generation that might have missed the reign of Houston can definitely see the influence she has had on modern female vocalists such as Keys and Keri Hilson. That being said, the album will most likely only gain popularity with old fans of hers, but Houston’s is one not to be dismissed. Check out her appearance on “The Oprah Winfrey Show” Sept. 14..It will be Houston’s first major TV interview in seven years.
4 stars out of 5.
