In a fleeting moment of musical triumph in 2016, Dana Winner soared to the top of the charts, becoming the most downloaded artist on iTunes. But who is Dana Winner? If you’re not from the Netherlands, Belgium, Estonia, Germany, or South Africa, her name might draw a blank. Yet, in these countries, Winner’s star had been steadily rising since her Dutch-Top-40 hit, “Westenwind” in 1995, an adaptation of The Cats’ “One Way Wind” from 1971.
Fast forward to February 2016, Winner graced the stage of “Liefde voor Muziek,” a TV show spotlighting Flemish music akin to the popular Dutch show “Beste Zangers.” There, she delivered a show-stopping rendition of Whitney Houston’s “One Moment in Time.” The performance was electrifying, prompting immediate acclaim. Within hours, Winner’s live recording became the most downloaded song on iTunes, a feat that catapulted her to international attention. Today, the video of her performance boasts nearly 63 million views on YouTube, a testament to its captivating allure.
Listeners were quick to shower Winner with praise. Leon WP commended her with a resounding applause, while Dorian Skylar acknowledged her rendition’s distinctiveness compared to Houston’s original. Duncan Noe Smith and Patrick Conover lauded her talent and stage presence, while Lori Hicks expressed being moved to tears by Winner’s emotive delivery.
“One Moment in Time” holds a special place in music history, originally produced for the 1988 Summer Olympics and cherished as one of Houston’s iconic songs. Winner’s interpretation did justice to its legacy, seamlessly blending her own style with the song’s emotional depth. As for her breakthrough hit, “Westenwind,” while it didn’t make waves in the UK or US, its popularity in the Netherlands, Belgium, Switzerland, and Germany remains undeniable.
For those unfamiliar with The Cats’ original “One Way Wind,” a journey back to the early 1970s awaits. The vintage promo footage of the band, set against a tropical backdrop, offers a glimpse into the era’s musical charm. With over 28 million views, it’s a testament to the enduring appeal of the song and its ability to transport listeners across time.
To delve deeper into Dana Winner’s enchanting world of music, her YouTube channel offers a treasure trove of awe-inspiring performances. Fans can also stay updated on her musical journey through her Facebook page and official website, basking in the magic of her vocal prowess and the profound connection she forges with her audience through her music.