Anyone who has a love and appreciation for music knows about the longevity of Whitney Houston’s career. With the one of the most powerful voices in music history, Houston captivated audiences across the globe with hits such as, “I Will Always Love You,” “The Greatest Love of All,” “I Wanna Dance With Somebody,” and “I Have Nothing.” However, nothing proved to be more spectacular than Whitney Houston’s rendition of the National Anthem. Still to this day it is one of the most viewed YouTube videos on the planet and is claimed to be one of the most respected anthems in United States history.
Ayla, who has been singing the anthem at the Philadelphia 76ers games this year said, “Whitney’s anthem is one to be grateful for. I’ve played that song over and over again as inspiration. If you want to be the best, you learn from the best. Whitney’s rendition of the anthem was the best that has ever been sung.”
Although a lot of people remember Whitney’s 1991 rendition of the Anthem at the XXV Superbowl in Tampa, Ayla has a favorite of her own. Watch below:
Whitney Houston was an inspiration to artists, vocalists, and performers throughout the world. Her songs resinated through generations of music lovers, and her hits will remain at the top of history for many years to come. Although I never met Whitney Houston, my favorite memory includes her hit duet, “When You Believe,” with Mariah Carey from the movie, The Price of Egypt. I can’t tell you how many hours I spent up in my room singing that song and practicing every vocal trill and lyric. This Whitney song became the first of many that I fell in love with. I am saddened to hear about her death, but grateful for her many years of musical inspiration. -Ayla Brown
Make sure you visit the Sixers game this season to hear Ayla’s rendition of the National Anthem!