Whitney Houston On Her Gay Pride Perfomance, Lesbian Rumors And More

Back in 1999, Whitney Houston performed at the Pier Dance, the signature closing event at New York City’s gay Pride weekend. Though not so much anymore, it was something of a tradition for top-tier divas to make surprise appearances at the event, with queens throughout the city placing bets on who would grace the stage. (Other divas who performed at the Pier Dance include Janet Jackson,  Jennifer Lopez and Cyndi Lauper.)

In a chat with MTV’s John Norris (remember him?), Houston discusses her appearance at Pride—”what I received was lots of love. Mad love.”—but makes it clear she’s not family. “It’s their pride they’re celebrating…I’m just there to entertain.”

The interview also reminds us that once upon a time, a gay dance remix could make or break a pop star’s album. “The clubs are happening. People—the gay community keeps them happening,” she tells Norris. “It’s where they go to release, to get their stuff off. And they like to hear music—good bangin’ music.”

Thank you, Whitney, for the years of good banging’ music.