Whitney Houston’s Surprising Memories of Elvis Presley: A Rare Interview

In a rare and insightful interview, Whitney Houston shared her unique experiences with the iconic Elvis Presley, revealing a personal connection that many fans may not have known about.

Through her mother, Whitney had the opportunity to meet Elvis at just six years old, a moment that would leave a lasting impression on her.

This article delves into Whitney’s reflections on Elvis, her time performing with him, and the impact he had on her life and career.

Whitney Houston’s relationship with Elvis Presley began when she was a young girl.

Her mother, Cissy Houston, was a prominent singer and a member of the Sweet Inspirations, a group that provided backup vocals for Elvis during his famous Las Vegas performances in 1969.

Whitney recalls meeting Elvis during one of these rehearsals, describing it as a moment of awe and admiration.

“You don’t really meet Elvis.

You actually just look at Elvis,” Whitney remarked, emphasizing the star power that Presley exuded.

She vividly remembers the atmosphere in the room when Elvis walked in wearing his trademark mink coat and sunglasses.

“Everyone just sat back and looked at him.

He was amazing—just amazing to look at,” she said, capturing the essence of the moment for a young girl meeting a music legend.

Whitney’s mother and the Sweet Inspirations sang backup for Elvis during his electrifying performances at the International Hotel in Las Vegas.

Whitney fondly reminisced about her time with the group, noting how they would often sing gospel songs together after rehearsals.

“He was wonderful. I loved him. He was such a gentleman,” she recalled, highlighting Elvis’s love for gospel music and his warm demeanor.

The Sweet Inspirations were part of the ensemble that accompanied Elvis during his first concert series at the International Hotel, which marked his return to live performances after years of focusing on films.

Whitney’s experience with Elvis not only provided her with early exposure to the music industry but also shaped her understanding of performance and artistry.

Despite only working with Elvis for a short time, Whitney’s memories of him remained vivid throughout her life.

She described him as not only a remarkable performer but also a genuinely nice person who enjoyed making people laugh.

“He would crack jokes and make you laugh while you were singing.

We had a good time,” she shared, painting a picture of a fun and relaxed atmosphere during their rehearsals.

Whitney also mentioned a special gift from Elvis—a gold bracelet inscribed with his nickname for her, “Squirly.”

This personal touch further exemplifies the bond they shared during her formative years in the music industry.

Interestingly, Whitney Houston and the Sweet Inspirations were not Elvis’s first choice for backup singers.

Before hiring them, Elvis had reached out to another girl group, the Blossoms, who had previously performed with him.

Darlene Love, a member of the Blossoms, recounted her experiences with Elvis in her memoir, noting how he had a genuine connection with the group during their performances.

Darlene shared how Elvis helped her career by promoting her music in Las Vegas, showcasing his generosity and support for fellow artists.

However, when the Blossoms declined his offer to join him in Las Vegas due to a better-paying gig, Elvis turned to the Sweet Inspirations, who had a memorable impact on his performances.

Whitney Houston’s reflections on Elvis also touch upon the broader context of his legacy within the Black community.

Despite facing prejudice in his career, Whitney expressed that she never felt any bias from him.

“I don’t think he was prejudiced,” she said, highlighting the respect and admiration she had for the King of Rock and Roll.

Elvis’s influence on music and culture is undeniable, and his collaborations with Black artists helped bridge gaps in a racially divided industry.

Whitney’s experiences with him serve as a testament to the impact he had on those around him, regardless of race.

Whitney Houston’s memories of Elvis Presley offer a glimpse into the personal side of the music icon, revealing a man who was not only a legendary performer but also a kind and supportive figure in the lives of those he worked with.

Her experiences with him shaped her understanding of music and performance, leaving a lasting impression that would influence her own illustrious career.

As we reflect on the legacies of both Whitney Houston and Elvis Presley, it’s essential to recognize the connections that exist within the music industry and the impact these artists have had on one another.

Whitney’s heartfelt recollections remind us that behind the fame and glamour, there are genuine relationships and moments that define the artistry we cherish.