Whitney Houston’s legacy as a global icon and a voice of hope continues to shine as PBS, in collaboration with Sony Music Vision, Legacy Recordings, The Estate of Whitney E. Houston and Primary Wave Music, prepares to air The Concert for a New South Africa (Durban). The remastered concert, marking its television debut, will be broadcast on PBS stations beginning December 1, 2024, with streaming available through PBS Passport.
The concert, originally performed in Durban on November 8, 1994, was part of Whitney Houston’s groundbreaking visit to South Africa, where she became the first major Western artist to perform in the country following Nelson Mandela’s historic election. The three-concert series—held in Durban, Johannesburg and Cape Town—drew over 200,000 attendees and transcended mere performance, embodying hope and unity in a nation transitioning to freedom.
“This concert was more than music; it was a message,” said Pat Houston, executive producer of the film and executor of Houston’s estate. “Whitney created a magical, once-in-a-lifetime event with director Marty Callner and music director Rickey Minor. Now, with the holiday season approaching, we’re honored to share that magic with PBS viewers.”
The broadcast follows the worldwide theatrical release of the concert film in October, which reignited demand for Houston’s electrifying performances and showcased her enduring artistry to a new generation. Featuring hits like “I Will Always Love You” and “Greatest Love of All,” alongside soul-stirring renditions of “Amazing Grace” and “Home,” the newly remastered concert is also accompanied by the release of The Concert for a New South Africa (Durban) live album on CD, vinyl and digital platforms.
Among the album’s highlights is “Love Is,” a previously unreleased studio track co-written by Carvin Winans, offering fans a fresh glimpse of Whitney Houston’s unparalleled artistry. “The fans have been crying for this concert for decades,” Pat Houston added. “I knew I had to do something special for them, and this is it. If you’ve never seen her in concert, this is the one to watch.”
The event is steeped in both historical and personal significance. Portions of the original concert proceeds supported South African children’s charities, a cause dear to Whitney Houston’s heart. This year, in honor of the 30th anniversary, the Whitney Houston Legacy Foundation awarded a grant to the Orlando Children’s Orphanage in South Africa. “It was important to reach back because I knew how much it meant to Whitney,” shared Pat Houston.
Whitney Houston’s remarkable ability to connect with audiences shines in every frame of this newly remastered concert. Pat Houston reflects on its enduring impact, saying, “When a young person watches this film, I’m sure they will say, ‘My God, what a voice,’ because she has one. She has such a voice of conviction and a voice of passion that resonates all over the world.” This celebration of Whitney Houston’s achievements comes shortly after the passing of her mother, gospel legend Cissy Houston, in October.
For those who may have only grown-up hearing Whitney Houston’s music through their families or discovered her voice through platforms like TikTok and Instagram, this concert offers an unfiltered experience of her magic. “When a young person watches this film, they’ll realize what an extraordinary voice she had,” Pat Houston said. “Her legacy resonates globally, and even today, children everywhere know her name.”
The Concert for a New South Africa (Durban) will premiere on PBS stations nationwide beginning December 1, 2024 (check local listings). The full concert film will also be available for streaming through PBS Passport on the same date.
