Whitney Houston was an American singer, actress, and model who became one of the most successful and influential artists of the 20th century. Born on August 9, 1963, in Newark, New Jersey, Houston began singing in the church choir at a young age, influenced by her mother, gospel singer Cissy Houston. She later signed with Arista Records and released her self-titled debut album in 1985, which became the best-selling debut album by a female artist at that time.
Houston’s powerful and emotive voice quickly made her a sensation, and she became a fixture on the pop and R&B charts throughout the 1980s and 1990s, with hits such as “How Will I Know,” “I Wanna Dance with Somebody,” “Greatest Love of All,” and “I Will Always Love You.” She won numerous awards throughout her career, including six Grammy Awards, two Emmy Awards, and 30 Billboard Music Awards.
Houston also became a successful actress, starring in films such as “The Bodyguard” and “Waiting to Exhale.” Her rendition of “I Will Always Love You” from “The Bodyguard” became one of the best-selling singles of all time.
Despite her massive success, Houston’s personal life was plagued by drug abuse and tumultuous relationships. She tragically passed away on February 11, 2012, at the age of 48, leaving behind a legacy as one of the greatest singers of all time. Her music continues to inspire and influence generations of artists, and she remains an icon of pop culture.
1. I Will Always Love You (1992)
“I Will Always Love You” is a powerful ballad originally written and recorded by Dolly Parton in 1974, and famously covered by Whitney Houston for the 1992 film “The Bodyguard”. Houston’s rendition became a massive hit, with her soaring vocals and emotive delivery elevating the already beautiful melody and lyrics to new heights. The song expresses the pain of letting go of a lover, but also the enduring love and respect that remains. With its iconic opening notes and unforgettable chorus, “I Will Always Love You” has become a classic love song that continues to resonate with audiences of all ages and backgrounds.
2. I Wanna Dance with Somebody (Who Loves Me) (1987)
“I Wanna Dance with Somebody (Who Loves Me)” is a pop and dance hit by the late American singer Whitney Houston, released in 1987 on her second album “Whitney.” The song features a catchy and upbeat melody with Houston’s soaring vocals inviting the listener to hit the dance floor and find love. Written by George Merrill and Shannon Rubicam, the song became an instant hit for Houston, reaching the top of the charts in multiple countries and earning her a Grammy Award. “I Wanna Dance with Somebody (Who Loves Me)” remains a beloved classic of the 1980s pop and dance music.
3. Greatest Love of All (1986)
“Greatest Love of All” is a powerful ballad recorded by Whitney Houston in 1986. The song was written by Michael Masser and Linda Creed and originally recorded by George Benson in 1977. Houston’s rendition became a massive hit, reaching the top of the charts and becoming one of her signature songs. The lyrics emphasize the importance of self-love and inner strength, highlighting the idea that the greatest love of all is the love we have for ourselves. The song features Houston’s incredible vocal range and emotional delivery, making it a timeless classic that has inspired countless listeners over the years.
4. How Will I Know (1985)
“How Will I Know” is a catchy pop song by Whitney Houston, released in 1985 as part of her self-titled debut album. The song’s upbeat rhythm, bright synths, and infectious melody make it an irresistible dance tune, while Houston’s powerhouse vocals add a touch of soulful depth. The lyrics express the excitement and uncertainty of falling in love, with the singer questioning whether her feelings are reciprocated and wondering how she will know if the love is real. “How Will I Know” became a massive hit, catapulting Houston to international stardom and cementing her status as one of the greatest voices in pop music history.
5. Saving All My Love for You (1985)
“Saving All My Love for You” is a ballad by the late American singer Whitney Houston, released in 1985 on her debut self-titled album. The song features Houston’s powerful and emotive vocals over a soft and romantic instrumental arrangement. Written by Michael Masser and Gerry Goffin, the lyrics describe a forbidden love affair between a woman and a married man, with the woman saving all her love for him. The song became a hit for Houston, reaching the top of the charts and earning her a Grammy Award. “Saving All My Love for You” remains a classic of Houston’s catalog and a beloved ballad of the 1980s.
6. So Emotional (1987)
“So Emotional” is an upbeat and catchy pop-dance song recorded by Whitney Houston in 1987. The song was written by Billy Steinberg and Tom Kelly, who had previously written hits for artists like Madonna and Cyndi Lauper. The lyrics describe the exhilaration and intensity of falling in love, with Houston’s powerhouse vocals conveying the excitement and passion of the emotions being described. The song’s memorable hook and infectious rhythm made it a chart-topping hit, cementing Houston’s status as one of the biggest pop stars of the era. “So Emotional” remains a beloved classic of the 1980s pop scene, and a testament to Houston’s incredible talent as a performer.
7. Didn’t We Almost Have It All (1987)
“Didn’t We Almost Have It All” is a poignant ballad by Whitney Houston, released in 1987 as part of her album “Whitney”. The song’s haunting melody and emotive lyrics tell the story of a love that was once strong and all-consuming, but ultimately fades away. Houston’s powerful vocals bring an extra layer of emotion and heartbreak to the song, as she sings about the pain of losing a love that was once everything. “Didn’t We Almost Have It All” became a chart-topping hit, cementing Houston’s status as one of the most gifted and beloved vocalists of her time.
8. Where Do Broken Hearts Go (1988)
“Where Do Broken Hearts Go” is a power ballad by the late American singer Whitney Houston, released in 1988 on her album “Whitney.” The song features Houston’s signature powerful vocals over a soft and emotional instrumental arrangement. Written by Frank Wildhorn and Chuck Jackson, the lyrics express a sense of confusion and longing after a heartbreak, asking where the broken-hearted can turn for love and comfort. The song became a hit for Houston, reaching the top of the charts and earning her a Grammy nomination. “Where Do Broken Hearts Go” remains a beloved classic of Houston’s catalog and a powerful anthem of heartbreak and healing.
9. All the Man That I Need (1990)
“All the Man That I Need” is a soulful ballad recorded by Whitney Houston in 1990. The song was written by Dean Pitchford and Michael Gore, and originally recorded by Linda Clifford in 1982. Houston’s rendition became a massive hit, reaching the top of the charts and becoming one of her signature songs. The lyrics describe the singer’s longing for a man who can fulfill all her emotional needs, with Houston’s powerful vocals conveying the depth of her desire. The song features a lush and melodic arrangement, with a soaring chorus that showcases Houston’s incredible range and emotive delivery. “All the Man That I Need” is a timeless classic that continues to inspire and move listeners with its message of love and emotional fulfillment.
10. One Moment in Time (1988)
“One Moment in Time” is an inspirational ballad by the late American singer Whitney Houston, released in 1988 as the official theme song of the Summer Olympics held in Seoul, South Korea. The song features Houston’s powerful and emotive vocals over a grand and uplifting instrumental arrangement. Written by Albert Hammond and John Bettis, the lyrics speak about striving for excellence and seizing the moment to achieve greatness. The song became a massive hit for Houston, reaching the top of the charts and earning her a Grammy Award. “One Moment in Time” remains a timeless and inspiring anthem of perseverance and achievement.
Edward Tomlin is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
