Mattel is paying tribute to the legendary vocalist Whitney Houston with a brand new Barbie doll, meticulously designed to capture her memorable style from the 1987 music video for her smash hit, 'I Wanna Dance With Somebody (Who Loves Me)'. This special edition collectible, retailing at $60, is set to launch on August 8th, offering fans a unique piece of music history. It will be accessible at Target stores and online platforms including Amazon, Walmart, Target, and Mattel Creations, making it widely available for enthusiasts and collectors alike.
The doll meticulously replicates Houston's distinctive appearance from the iconic music video, featuring a vibrant purple tank dress, eye-catching drop earrings, and bold eye makeup, truly bringing her energetic stage persona to life. Completing the ensemble, the Barbie also comes equipped with a miniature microphone stand, ensuring it's always ready for a performance. This attention to detail highlights the collaborative effort behind the doll's creation, aiming to authentically represent the beloved singer.
The creation of this Whitney Houston Barbie was a collaborative endeavor, involving close cooperation between Mattel and Houston’s estate. Pat Houston, who serves as the executor of the Estate of Whitney E. Houston and president of the Whitney E. Houston Legacy Foundation, worked alongside Primary Wave Music and the Barbie design team. Their combined efforts ensured that every aspect of the doll, from its meticulously chosen wardrobe to the recreation of Houston’s signature glamorous look, met the highest standards of authenticity and respect for her legacy.
Scheduled for an official unveiling this Saturday at the fifth annual Legacy of Love Gala in Atlanta, hosted by the Whitney E. Houston Legacy Foundation, the doll's debut coincides with a period of ongoing celebration for Houston's enduring impact. This special release marks another milestone in acknowledging more than four decades since Whitney Houston first captivated the world with her unparalleled vocal talent, establishing herself as one of pop music's most formidable and cherished voices.
'I Wanna Dance With Somebody,' released as the lead single from Houston's sophomore album, 'Whitney,' quickly became a defining anthem of her career. This track not only solidified her status as a global superstar but also earned her the Grammy Award for Best Female Pop Vocal Performance in 1988, marking a significant achievement in her illustrious journey. The album itself shattered records, being the first by a female artist to debut at number one on the Billboard 200, and the song contributed to Houston's unprecedented streak of seven consecutive number-one singles, a testament to her immense popularity and talent.
This latest addition enriches Barbie Signature's distinguished collection, which celebrates a diverse array of musical and cultural icons. Previous releases have honored legendary figures such as Tina Turner, Stevie Nicks, Gloria Estefan, and Mariah Carey, showcasing the brand's commitment to recognizing influential women across various creative fields. The Whitney Houston Barbie continues this tradition, offering fans a tangible tribute to her indelible mark on music and culture.
This initiative by Mattel serves as a heartfelt homage to Whitney Houston, a cultural icon whose influence transcends generations. The Barbie doll, faithfully recreating her iconic 'I Wanna Dance With Somebody' look, not only celebrates her musical prowess but also her lasting impact on fashion and pop culture. It represents a tangible connection for fans to one of the greatest voices of all time, immortalizing her vibrant spirit and legendary career in a new, accessible form.
