Based: Cape Town
Belinda Davids is an internationally acclaimed South African vocalist, best known for her extraordinary interpretation of the music of Whitney Houston. Born and raised in Gelvandale, Gqeberha (formerly Port Elizabeth), Davids has built an international career around a remarkable vocal ability, commanding stage presence and an enduring connection to the music that inspired her from childhood.
Growing up as one of seven children in a musical family, Belinda was surrounded by gospel music and singing from an early age. Her influences extended across some of the greatest voices in soul and R&B, including Aretha Franklin, Anita Baker, Chaka Khan, Donny Hathaway and Michael Jackson, but it was Whitney Houston who became her defining musical inspiration. Remarkably, Belinda has never received formal vocal training and is credited with possessing an exceptional four-octave vocal range. She began performing professionally at just 14 years old.
Recording Career & International Experience
Before becoming internationally recognised for interpreting Whitney Houston’s catalogue, Belinda established herself as a recording and performing artist in her own right. In the mid-1990s she signed with Tusk Records and released the album Belinda Davids. Three songs she wrote were released as singles, with one reaching number one in South Africa.
Her career subsequently took her beyond South Africa, and she developed extensive experience as a solo performer, backing vocalist and support artist. Her performance history includes working alongside or supporting internationally recognised artists such as The Temptations, Keri Hilson, Keyshia Cole, Monica and Johnny Gill. She also opened during international tours and appearances by artists including Michael Jackson, The Manhattans, The Temptations and Peaches & Herb.
The Greatest Love of All
Belinda’s career entered a new international chapter when she was selected to star in Showtime Australia’s production The Greatest Love of All, celebrating the music and legacy of Whitney Houston. According to her official biography, producers conducted an extensive worldwide search involving almost 15,000 hopefuls before selecting Belinda for the marquee role.
The production has since taken her around the world, with performances across the United Kingdom, Europe, the United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Africa, Asia and other international territories.
Backed by a live band and full-scale theatrical production, Belinda performs some of Houston’s most demanding and celebrated songs, including “I Will Always Love You,” “I Have Nothing,” “I Wanna Dance with Somebody,” “How Will I Know,” “One Moment in Time” and “Saving All My Love for You.”
Importantly, The Greatest Love of All is an independent tribute production and is not affiliated with or endorsed by the Estate of Whitney Houston.
International Television Recognition
Belinda’s international profile expanded significantly through television appearances. In 2017, she won the BBC television programme Even Better Than the Real Thing, which showcased leading tribute performers from around the world. Her performance of Whitney Houston’s “I Have Nothing” attracted widespread attention and millions of online views.
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