Jennifer Hudson to Headline Whitney Houston Legacy Gala on Singer’s Birthday
Award-winning performer Jennifer Hudson will be the featured artist at the fourth annual Whitney E. Houston Legacy of Love Gala, a celebration of the iconic singer’s enduring impact and philanthropic spirit. The gala, presented by The Whitney E. Houston Legacy Foundation and Primary Wave Music, will be held on August 9th at the St. Regis Hotel in Atlanta – a date chosen to commemorate what would have been Houston’s 62nd birthday.This year’s event marks a notable milestone: the 40th anniversary of Whitney Houston’s groundbreaking career. From her self-titled debut in 1985 to becoming one of the best-selling music artists of all time (with estimated record sales exceeding 200 million worldwide),Houston’s influence on popular music remains undeniable. The gala aims to honor not only her artistic achievements but also her commitment to giving back.
The evening’s entertainment will extend beyond Hudson’s headline performance. R&B vocalist Meli’sa Morgan,who contributed to Houston’s debut album,will take the stage,offering a nostalgic connection to the singer’s early success. Jimmy avance, the victor of The Whitney E. Houston Legacy Foundation’s Cover Song Competition, will also perform. Adding a unique dimension to the program, a symphony orchestra will present a preview of “The Voice of Whitney: A Symphonic Celebration,” a forthcoming North American tour conducted by William R. Langley. This tour exemplifies the continued effort to reimagine and celebrate Houston’s music for new generations.
Music industry icon clive Davis, Chief Creative Officer of Sony Music Entertainment, will serve as the honorary chair for the gala. Hosting duties will be shared by Pat Houston, President of The whitney E. Houston Legacy Foundation and executor of Whitney’s estate, and Kevin Frazier of Entertainment Tonight. “We are incredibly fortunate to have Jennifer Hudson join us for this special occasion,” stated Pat Houston. “Her support of Whitney’s legacy is deeply appreciated, and her presence will undoubtedly make this gala an unforgettable tribute.”
The Legacy Foundation’s commitment extends beyond celebration. For 2025, they have designated Kids in the Spotlight as their grant award recipient.This organization provides vital support and empowerment programs for foster youth, aligning with Houston’s well-known dedication to children. Currently, there are over 400,000 children in the foster care system in the United States (according to the Children’s Bureau), highlighting the critical need for organizations like Kids in the Spotlight. Attendees will also have the chance to bid on rare Whitney Houston artifacts and curated experiences through auctions hosted by Julien’s Auctions and Charity Buzz, further contributing to the Foundation’s philanthropic endeavors. Continuing a tradition, the gala will also award scholarships to students pursuing arts education at Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs).
“The Foundation’s growth over the past four years has been truly inspiring,” added Houston. “Whitney’s passion for supporting children was profound.She consistently used her platform to uplift communities globally,embodying the spirit of service. Her belief, so eloquently expressed in ‘Greatest Love of All,’ that children hold the key to our future remains a guiding principle for the Foundation’s work.” The gala promises to be a powerful reminder of Whitney Houston’s artistic brilliance and her enduring legacy of love and generosity.