What is Whitney Houston’s Net Worth?
| Net Worth: |
$-20,000,000
|
|---|---|
| Birth: | August 9, 1963 – February 11, 2012 |
| Age: | 48 |
| Height: | 1.72 m (5 ft 7 in) |
| Source of Wealth: | Singer, Model, Film Producer |
| Nationality: | USA |
| Instagram: | None |
| Last updated: | 2024 |
Introduction
Whitney Houston is a legendary singer and actress who dominated the music industry for decades before her untimely death in 2012. With millions of fans all over the world and an impressive career that spanned over 30 years, Houston achieved a level of fame and success that few others can match. But just how much was she worth at the height of her career, and where did all that money go?
Early Life
Whitney Houston’s early life was shaped by her upbringing in Newark, New Jersey. Born in 1963, she was the daughter of gospel singer Cissy Houston and businessman John Russell Houston Jr. Growing up, she was exposed to music through her mother’s involvement in the church choir. At a young age, Houston began showcasing her vocal abilities by performing alongside her mother at various church events.
Personal Life and Tragic Loss
In the 80s, Whitney Houston had relationships with Jermaine Jackson, Eddie Murphy, and Randall Cunningham. She married singer Bobby Brown in 1992. Brown’s troubles with the law, including drunk driving and drug possession, became well-known. They had a daughter named Bobbi Kristina Brown in 1993.
By the late 90s, Houston’s behavior became erratic and her appearance changed. Rumors of substance abuse with her husband spread. In 2000, she was caught with marijuana at an airport. In a 2002 interview, Houston admitted to using cocaine. She sought rehab in the following years.
On February 11, 2012, Houston was found unconscious in a hotel bathtub. The coroner’s report revealed accidental drowning with cocaine and other drugs in her system.
Career
In the 1980s, Houston embarked on a successful career in the music industry. She signed a record deal with Arista Records and released her debut self-titled album in 1985. The album instantly achieved widespread acclaim, spawning multiple number-one hits such as “Saving All My Love for You” and “How Will I Know.” Houston continued to release albums over the following years, solidifying her position as the best-selling female artist of the 1980s.
Beyond her music career, Houston also ventured into acting and achieved crossover success. She appeared in films like “The Bodyguard” and “Waiting to Exhale”, further expanding her influence and fan base.
Rise to fame
Whitney Houston’s rise to superstardom began with the release of her self-titled debut album in 1985. Although it initially took time to gain traction, the album eventually skyrocketed to the top of the charts, dominating the Billboard 200 for an impressive 14 weeks in 1986. Houston’s remarkable vocals captivated listeners, and the album spawned a string of number-one hits, including “Saving All My Love for You,” “How Will I Know,” and “Greatest Love of All.” The album’s success extended beyond the United States, reaching the top of charts in various countries and solidifying Houston’s status as a global sensation.
In 1987, Houston continued her ascent with the release of her second studio album, “Whitney”, This monumental achievement made her the first woman ever to have an album debut at number one on the Billboard 200. The album remained at the top for an astounding 25 weeks and showcased Houston’s incredible range and versatility. It featured four chart-topping singles, including the infectious “I Wanna Dance with Somebody (Who Loves Me)”. which became an international sensation.
Financial Struggles
Whitney Houston’s untimely passing on February 11th, 2012, left behind a legacy of musical greatness. Throughout her career, she sold over 200 million albums and earned accolades like two Emmys, six Grammys, 30 Billboard Music Awards, and 22 AMAs.
Despite her massive success, Whitney faced significant financial challenges. She had a habit of spending money faster than she earned it. In 2001, she faced financial ruin before signing a $100 million recording contract with Sony/Arista. However, due to lower album sales, she only received $40 million, leaving her owing the record label nearly $20 million. As a result, Sony/Arista gained control over Whitney’s past recordings.
Whitney Houston’s story teaches us the importance of managing our finances wisely, regardless of success and fame.
Net Worth
At the time of her death in 2012, Whitney Houston had an estimated net worth of around $20 million. However, her estate has continued to earn significant income in the years since her passing, thanks to the continued popularity of her music and merchandise.
In 2019, Whitney Houston’s net worth was estimated at $7 million, with the majority of her fortune coming from music royalties, album sales, merchandise, and licensing fees for her likeness and image.
At the time of her unfortunate death, Whitney Houston encountered significant financial difficulties. It was also reported that she had a negative net worth of $20 million.
Spending Habits
Despite her immense wealth, Whitney Houston’s spending habits were often extravagant and sometimes concerning. She once famously claimed to have spent over $300,000 on drugs in a single year, and she reportedly owned multiple properties, including a mansion in New Jersey and a home in Atlanta.
Houston was also known for her love of luxury items, including designer clothing, high-end jewelry, and exotic cars. Her spending habits often seemed to be fueled by a desire to maintain her superstar status, as well as by her personal demons.
Conclusion
Whitney Houston’s net worth reflects the incredible success and fame she achieved as one of the greatest singers of all time. Despite a personal life marked by challenges, Houston’s legacy has continued to inspire millions of fans around the world. Her timeless music and timeless beauty will always be remembered, firmly placing her among the music industry’s most transcendent and transformative icons.
Frequently Asked Questions about Whitney Houston
What was Whitney Houston’s biggest hit?
Whitney Houston’s biggest hit was her cover of Dolly Parton’s “I Will Always Love You,” which was featured in the movie “The Bodyguard” and spent 14 weeks at the top of the charts.
Did Whitney Houston write her own songs?
Houston did not write many of her own songs, but she collaborated with some of the most talented songwriters of her time and made their work her own.
What was Whitney Houston’s favorite song?
Houston once said that her favorite song to perform was “I Will Always Love You,” which became one of her most iconic hits.
Did Whitney Houston have any children?
Yes, Whitney Houston had one child, a daughter named Bobbi Kristina Brown. Brown passed away in 2015 at the age of 22.
Who is Whitney Houston’s estate managed by?
Whitney Houston’s estate is managed by her sister-in-law, Pat Houston, and the executor of her will, lawyer Robert W. Selverstone.
How tall is Whitney Houston?
Whitney Houston is approximately 5 ft 7 in (1.72 m) tall.
