BEVERLY HILLS, Calif. (AP) — Last year, Whitney Houston died hours before Clive Davis‘ annual pre-Grammy gala. This year, the music executive says she’ll be remembered.
“In saying I’m proud of her legacy, I’m going to make sure that she’s felt somehow during that night, yes,” the 80-year-old said in an interview Thursday.
Davis’ gala will take place Saturday night at the Beverly Hilton, where Houston died on Feb. 11, 2012, at age 48.
The annual event is where Davis introduced a young Houston to the music world more than two decades ago. Davis — Houston’s mentor, producer, champion and longtime friend — memorialized her at last year’s gala, held downstairs from the hotel where she died.
“Whitney and I had great times at this party over the years,” he said, smiling. “I’d played her new songs and she’d come over in her pajamas and be listening late at night … so it is bittersweet. Tragedy is still foul.”
Houston was found drowned in a bathtub. Coroner’s officials ruled her death accidental, with heart disease and cocaine use contributing factors.
The night continued last year after Houston’s death — and the music will live on this year.
R&B singer Miguel, who’s up for five awards at Sunday’s Grammys — including song of the year for “Adorn” — will hit the stage. He rehearsed some of the song happily Thursday.
“I’ve dreamt about coming to this party,” the singer said. “It’s a huge honor to be included and perform.”
Davis, per usual, was tight-lipped about the other performers.
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