For many, Whitney Houston is the golden standard of vocal performance – a status that remains intact nearly 40 years after she first burst onto the music scene.

And while her enduring legacy is seen and heard with the treasure chest of albums and videos she created over her career, it’s also felt in the work of the artists she influenced.

Prominently among the latter is R&B icon Monica, who was one of the few stellar vocalists who can count Whitney as a direct mentor.

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When not putting final touches on her long-awaited ninth studio album, ‘Trenches,’ Mo’s been a mainstay on the touring circuit headlining a number of R&B revues around the globe.

A standout of her live showings always comes courtesy of the concert series ‘Femme It Forward,’  a “female-led music and entertainment experience” that celebrates and empowers women through music and comedy shows (as well as other formats).

Recently, Monica took to Philadelphia’s The Met to headline a ‘Forward’ event lined with names like Tweet and Lil Mo.

During her hits-filled set, the GRAMMY winner – in the spirit of Thanksgiving – gave thanks to a number of late friends who have impacted her life. Among them was Whitney, who Monica paid homage to with a capella showings of some of the legendary Pop diva’s greatest hits (e.g. ‘I Will Always Love You’ and more).

See the tribute above before watching Mo’s full performance below.

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