Whitney Houston was one of the most talented and influential singers of all time, with a career spanning over three decades. Her incredible vocal range and power earned her numerous awards and accolades, including seven Grammy Awards, 22 American Music Awards, and two Emmy Awards. Houston’s music has had a significant impact on the music industry, and her legacy continues to inspire new generations of artists. In this article, we will explore the ten best Whitney Houston songs of all time, looking at her greatest hits that captured the hearts of millions worldwide.
Houston’s songs have been beloved by millions around the world for their soulful lyrics and her unique ability to convey emotion through her voice. Her music is timeless, and her ability to connect with her audience is unmatched. Her hits like “I Will Always Love You,” “Greatest Love of All,” and “I Wanna Dance With Somebody” have become classics that are still popular today. Houston’s music has the power to uplift and inspire, and it’s no wonder that her songs continue to be played and celebrated years after their release.
Whether you’re a long-time fan of Whitney Houston or just discovering her music, this article will take you on a journey through her greatest hits and the stories behind them. From ballads to dance anthems, we’ll explore the music that made Whitney Houston an icon and continues to captivate audiences around the world. So sit back, relax, and get ready to sing along to the ten best Whitney Houston songs of all time.
1. I Have Nothing (1992)
“I Have Nothing” is a powerful ballad from Whitney Houston’s 1992 movie “The Bodyguard.” The song was written by David Foster and Linda Thompson and produced by Foster. It showcases Houston’s stunning vocal range and emotional depth as she sings about the depth of her love for someone and her willingness to give everything to them. The song’s soaring chorus and Houston’s impressive vocal performance make it a classic, and it remains one of her most beloved hits. “I Have Nothing” earned Houston a nomination for Best Original Song at the 1993 Academy Awards and is widely regarded as one of her most iconic performances.
2. I Wanna Dance With Somebody (Who Loves Me) (1987)
“I Wanna Dance With Somebody (Who Loves Me)” is an upbeat and infectious dance-pop song from Whitney Houston’s 1987 album “Whitney.” The song was written by George Merrill and Shannon Rubicam, and produced by Narada Michael Walden. It became a massive hit and is still regarded as one of Houston’s signature songs. The song’s catchy melody, lively beat, and Houston’s powerful vocals make it an irresistible dancefloor filler. The lyrics express the desire to find love and companionship, and the song’s joyful energy and optimistic message make it a favorite among Houston fans and music lovers worldwide.
3. Exhale (Shoop Shoop) (1995)
“Exhale (Shoop Shoop)” is a soulful R&B song written and produced by Babyface for the 1995 film “Waiting to Exhale.” The song was performed by Whitney Houston, who also starred in the film. It features a smooth, laid-back groove and Houston’s emotive vocals, as she sings about finding inner peace and strength after a difficult period in her life. The song’s catchy refrain, “shoop shoop,” became a signature part of the song, and its message of resilience and self-care resonated with listeners. “Exhale (Shoop Shoop)” was a hit for Houston and remains a beloved classic in her discography.
4. My Love Is Your Love (1999)
“My Love Is Your Love” is a mid-tempo R&B and reggae fusion song by Whitney Houston, released in 1999. The song was written by Wyclef Jean, Jerry Duplessis, and Houston and produced by Jean and Duplessis. The song features Houston’s smooth and soulful vocals, with a message of unconditional love and devotion. The reggae-influenced beat and the use of a guitar riff give the song a laid-back feel, while the chorus is a soaring and powerful declaration of love. “My Love Is Your Love” was a hit for Houston and has become a fan favorite, with its message of love and unity resonating with listeners.
5. It’s Not Right But It’s Okay (1999)
“It’s Not Right But It’s Okay” is a dance-pop and R&B song by Whitney Houston, released in 1999. The song was written by LaShawn Daniels, Rodney Jerkins, Fred Jerkins III, and Isaac Phillips and produced by Jerkins. The song’s lyrics detail a woman’s decision to leave a cheating partner, with a strong message of empowerment and self-respect. Houston’s powerful vocals and the song’s infectious beat and catchy chorus made it a hit and a dancefloor favorite. “It’s Not Right But It’s Okay” won a Grammy Award for Best Female R&B Vocal Performance, and it remains one of Houston’s most popular and memorable songs.
6. How Will I Know? (1985)
“How Will I Know?” is an upbeat and catchy dance-pop song by Whitney Houston, released in 1985. The song was written by George Merrill, Shannon Rubicam, and Narada Michael Walden and produced by Walden. The song’s lyrics describe the uncertainty and excitement of falling in love and the search for true affection. Houston’s powerful and vibrant vocals are accompanied by a lively and energetic beat and a memorable synthesizer riff. “How Will I Know?” was a hit for Houston, and its infectious melody and optimistic message have made it a beloved classic of the 1980s.
7. I’m Your Baby Tonight (1990)
“I’m Your Baby Tonight” is a groovy and soulful dance-pop song by Whitney Houston, released in 1990. The song was written and produced by Babyface and L.A. Reid and features Houston’s dynamic and sultry vocals. The song’s lyrics express the singer’s desire to be her lover’s everything, promising to be there for him and fulfill his every need. The song’s memorable beat, horns, and backing vocals give it a lively and upbeat feel. “I’m Your Baby Tonight” was a hit for Houston and remains a fan favorite, with its irresistible groove and Houston’s powerful vocals making it a classic of the era.
8. I Will Always Love You (1992)
“I Will Always Love You” is a ballad originally written and recorded by country music legend Dolly Parton in 1974, but it was Whitney Houston’s version that brought it to international fame. Houston’s version was released in 1992 as the theme song for the film “The Bodyguard,” which starred Houston and Kevin Costner. The song was produced by David Foster and features Houston’s soaring and powerful vocals, backed by an orchestral arrangement. The song’s lyrics express a heartfelt message of eternal love and devotion, making it a favorite for weddings and romantic occasions. “I Will Always Love You” became Houston’s signature song, a timeless classic that still moves listeners to this day.
9. The Greatest Love of All (1986)
“The Greatest Love of All” is an inspirational ballad by Whitney Houston, released in 1986. The song was written by Michael Masser and Linda Creed and produced by Masser. The song’s lyrics are about self-love and self-belief, with the message that learning to love and accept yourself is the greatest love of all. Houston’s powerful and emotive vocals are backed by a lush orchestral arrangement, with a memorable piano intro and a soaring chorus. “The Greatest Love of All” became a hit for Houston, and its message of self-love and empowerment continues to inspire listeners to this day.
10. All the Man That I Need (1990)
“All the Man That I Need” is a soulful and passionate ballad by Whitney Houston, released in 1990. The song was written by Dean Pitchford and Michael Gore and produced by Narada Michael Walden. The song’s lyrics describe the singer’s longing for a man who can fulfill her emotional and physical needs. Houston’s emotive and powerful vocals are accompanied by a lush orchestral arrangement, with a memorable saxophone solo and a soaring chorus. “All the Man That I Need” was a hit for Houston, showcasing her ability to convey deep emotion through her voice and cementing her status as one of the greatest vocalists of all time.