Whitney Houston's real mother was Emily "Cissy" (née Drinkard) Houston, widely known as Cissy Houston.
The Matriarch Behind the Voice
Born on August 9, 1963, at Presbyterian Hospital in Newark, New Jersey, the iconic singer Whitney Elizabeth Houston was the beloved daughter of Emily "Cissy" Houston and John Russell Houston Jr. Cissy Houston is not only recognized as Whitney's mother but is also a celebrated American soul and gospel singer in her own right. Her profound musical background significantly influenced Whitney's unparalleled vocal talent and eventual global career.
Key Family Details
To clarify the direct lineage, here are the primary biological parents of Whitney Houston:
| Relationship | Name |
|---|---|
| Mother | Emily "Cissy" (née Drinkard) Houston |
| Father | John Russell Houston Jr. |
A Legacy of Music and Family
Cissy Houston's extensive career includes her role as a founding member of the Grammy Award-winning gospel group The Sweet Inspirations, who provided background vocals for legendary artists such as Elvis Presley and Aretha Franklin. This deep-rooted exposure to the music industry from a young age provided Whitney with an innate understanding and appreciation for vocal artistry, instrumental in shaping her into the superstar she became.
For more details on Whitney Houston's life and family, you can refer to her profile on Wikipedia.
