Recorded in 1994, Whitney Houston’s The Concert For A New South Africa (Durban) is a time capsule of hope and unity, another chance to hear a legendary voice at a special moment. This release also marks the debut of the heartfelt ballad "Love Is."
Whitney Houston’s legendary 1994 performance in Durban, South Africa, is finally available on CD and vinyl, capturing an unforgettable night that even at the time was clearly more than just another concert from a singer with undeniable talent. Finally available to longtime fans, The Concert For A New South Africa (Durban) celebrates the 30th anniversary of Houston’s historic visit to the newly liberated South Africa, making her the first major Western artist to perform in the country following Nelson Mandela’s election. With over 200,000 people attending her three-city tour, in hindsight it ended up being much more than simply a tour; it was a moment in history.
The setlist for this live album is as stacked as Houston’s legacy. Fans can experience the magic of hits like “How Will I Know,” “I Wanna Dance With Somebody (Who Loves Me),” “I Have Nothing,” and the powerhouse anthem “I Will Always Love You.” But the biggest surprise is the first-ever release of “Love Is,” a previously unheard track that adds a fresh touch to an already monumental collection. Pat Houston, executor of the Whitney E. Houston Estate, speaks to the emotional power of this release: “This album will remind not just her core fans, but music lovers worldwide of Whitney’s virtuosity as a recording artist.” For those who witnessed it, the concert was transformative, as Houston’s voice soared through South Africa, offering a soundtrack of joy and liberation to a nation emerging from apartheid.
The concert film, directed by Marty Callner, hit theaters in late October, remastered in 4K and with pristine audio quality. With screenings across 30 countries, Houston’s magic is primed to inspire a global audience once more. Clive Davis, the music mogul who signed Houston to Arista Records, says it best: “There will never be another Whitney Houston.”
Whitney Houston’s legacy continues to break barriers, and The Concert For A New South Africa (Durban) is proof that, three decades on, her music is as meaningful as ever. And this powerhouse performance will once again bring people together in awe of a voice that defined an era and a spirit that inspired a nation.