The Estate of Whitney Houston has unveiled plans for “The Voice of Whitney: A Symphonic Celebration,” a North American concert tour launching September 20 to honor the 40th anniversary of the legendary singer’s career. This marks the first wave of a year-long celebration commemorating Houston’s musical legacy that began with her self-titled debut album released on February 14, 1985.
The tour kicks off at Cincinnati Music Hall featuring the Cincinnati Pops Orchestra conducted by Daniel Wiley. Additional performances will take place across North Carolina, California, Indiana, Illinois, and Arizona, with more dates planned throughout 2025 and 2026.
Whitney’s Voice Lives On Through Symphonic Experience
This unique concert experience features Houston’s original master recordings and remastered vocals paired with live symphony orchestras. Fans will hear her iconic voice while enjoying historic performances enhanced by full orchestral arrangements.
“There’s so much excitement happening around this tour, even the discussions and plans to take the tour internationally, where there’s a great amount of interest, which is where Whitney did a majority of her concert tours throughout her career,” said Pat Houston, executor of The Estate of Whitney E. Houston and President of The Whitney E. Houston Legacy Foundation.
The show includes never-before-seen video footage and interviews, with Houston herself narrating the entire performance through archival recordings. This creates an intimate connection between the audience and the late superstar.
Early Success Shows Strong Fan Demand
The symphonic celebration has already proven popular with audiences at earlier preview performances. The concept premiered last August at The Ravinia Festival with the Chicago Philharmonic conducted by Sean Mayes.
The tour continued with a November 2024 performance at the Kennedy Center featuring the National Symphony Orchestra under the direction of Steven Reineke. Both shows drew packed houses, demonstrating the enduring appeal of Houston’s music.
Before the full fall tour begins, fans can catch a special performance on June 25 at the Schermerhorn Symphony in Nashville. This show will feature the Nashville Symphony conducted by Sean Mayes, offering another preview of the full tour experience.
Historic Legacy Honored Through Music
February 15 marked a significant milestone in Houston’s story – the 47th anniversary of her debut performance at New York City’s historic Town Hall. At just 14 years old, she performed “Tomorrow” from the Broadway musical Annie.
To honor this moment, “The Voice of Whitney” recently returned to Town Hall for an exclusive special performance. The 35-member Pops of Color Orchestra, conducted by Mayes, performed “Tomorrow” in tribute to where Houston’s extraordinary journey began.
The Estate and Primary Wave Music have designed this concert series as part of a broader celebration of Houston’s immense impact on music and entertainment. The symphonic format allows her unparalleled vocal talent to take center stage while giving fans a fresh way to experience her timeless music.
