You know, to be honest I never cared for any of her music, but I’m fine with those who did having their say and remembering her talent. Just as I hope they do when I get all weepey-eyed over the death of one of my 50s or 60s idols.
But I do remember her singing the National Anthem at one of the Superbowl games, and she did a magnificent job of it, with all the respect and dignity that it deserved, and for me that will always be her greatest contribution.
It is always a loss when someone so talented passes before their time, but the best way to honor their memory is to remember the joy they brought, and keep the speculation and moral judgements to ourselves.
“the death of one of my 50s or 60s idols.”
Unfortunately, I’m usually surprised to find out some of these are (or were, 24 hrs prior) alive!
Then I find out many of them are “only” my parents’ age or a bit younger - and it seems impossible! Sometimes 1960 seems not so long ago, other times it seems it’s been a century.
Being a fan of music in general (yes, I listened to “oldies” about as much if not more than ‘80s), I am always interested and a bit saddened by these deaths. In Houston’s case, though, she is a bit young and thus it’s somewhat super-shocking. I’m surprised to find she’s younger than my sister.