Expect a concert in 2016, Whitney Houston fans.
Hologram USA and Houston's estate announced in a joint statement last Friday, as per LA Times that a hologram of the late pop singer Whitney Houston will arrive next year.
According to CNN, Greek billionaire Alki David's Hologram USA in partnership with Whitney Houston's estate as represented by Pat Houston is behind the hologram. Recently, Hologram USA's CEO, David was the subject of controversy for teaming up with infamous rapper Chief Keef, whose concert was shut down.
Fans can view a live streaming of Houston's digital version on FilmOn.com. LA Times reports that the live show will open at a major U.S. venue and tour the world.
Pat Houston, Houston's sister-in-law and the Houston estate's president, as per CNN, says in a press release that the partnership will "bring back" Whitney Houston. "It's a great opportunity for her fans to see a reinvention of one the most celebrated female artists in history and to continue a legacy of performances that will not be forgotten in years to come. I look forward to the partnership," she says.
It can be recalled that when Houston was asked in 2014 regarding a "Whitney hologram" that she expressed mixed feelings: "I don't know how I would feel about [a hologram] and certainly I've been approached to do a project of that magnitude and I said, 'No.' But who knows what the future holds," she said, as cited by CNN. "I mean, it's just been only two and half years. Maybe down the road."
Whitney's greatest hits are slated to be included in the concert. LA Times notes that it will be interactive and shall incorporate audiences and special guests.
Presently, Hologram USA and FilmOn are working on icons Patsy Cline, Buddy Holly and Bing Crosby. The former is also reported to have a deal with the Apollo Theater in Harlem to make it the first U.S. venue with a long-term hologram stage -- pegged to house performances from the past entertainers of Apollo Theatre.
"The opportunity to help share [Whitney's] spectacular gifts with the world again is exactly what I hoped for when I built the hologram business," David said in a statement as per LA Times. "We've got technology that's causing a seismic shift in the entertainment industry, and a wonderful partnership with Pat Houston and the estate -- I'm confident we'll create the ultimate celebration of Whitney's amazing artistry."