Top 10 Whitney Houston Songs

All right, maybe the concept of this Grammy Award-winning hit doesn’t exactly fit today’s modern world, but regardless, the lyrics contain a truth that can’t be ignored. And what is that truth you might ask? In short, if a fella does you wrong, don’t sit around and wait for the situation to get better, just pack your stuff – or his – and keep calm. Produced by Darkchild, “It’s Not Right but It’s Okay” conveys a youthful vibe, and through a conversational set of lyrics, Whitney produced effortless and flawless vocals as usual.

Originally recorded by jazz prodigy George Benson in 1977, this early Whitney song touched the hearts of listeners back in the mid 80s, when “The Greatest Love of All” appeared on the singer’s debut album. Gentle, warm, and comforting the song gave the songstress a perfect showcase for the dynamic range of her powerful, sweeping vocals. And then you have the music video, featuring Whitney’s own mother and filmed at Harlem’s Apollo Theatre. Symbolic in so many ways, this heart-warming composition set the foundation for an iconic career.

With the great Kenny G on saxophone and including thinly-veiled references to great sex, this straight-to-the-point love ballad captures the essence of finding the ideal man. Like many songs in diva’s repertoire, “All The Man That I Need” was originally recorded by another artist but received that special Whitney flava; an early 90s update for a new generation of satisfied lovers. By the end of the track, there’s nothing really as to say, as Whit’s vocals put the exclamation point on the lyrics.

Everyone loves a nice back rub don't they? Well, here’s a song that will essentially massage your very soul. As one of Whitney’s early hits, “Saving All My Love for You” marked her first Billboard #1 AND first Grammy win, largely due to the effervescent nature of the spectacular vocals. It’s got a little bit of old-school jazz, complemented by Whitney’s modern woman flair, and considering the unique moment in her career, this song will forever be associated with mid 80s musical mojo.

Throughout the mid to late 80s, Whitney established herself as the voice of her generation, but with the lead single off her 1990 album, she truly came into her own as a cultural icon. Featuring the production of L.A. Reid and Babyface, “I’m Your Baby Tonight” allowed Whit to show off her individuality, as you know that girl had a little spunk and sass to her. It’s representative of the time, and through the undeniable energy of the song, Whitney announced the arrival of new kind of superstar.

Now if this song couldn’t help Whitney connect with the MTV generation, then nothing could. Just the spirit alone of “How Will I Know” embodies a youthful vibe, however the music video unveiled the top model looks and vibrant persona of Ms. Houston. Teenagers loved it, and you know what – their parents loved it too. Lyrically, the song relies heavily on the chorus, but with our girl Whit delivering the message, well, let’s just say that “How I Will I Know” doesn’t necessarily reflect the average pop song of the mid 80s.

Building on the momentum of “How Will I Know,” Whitney collaborated with the same duo of songwriters and stepped it up a notch with a declarative statement about the power of dance. In other words, Whitney channeled the spirit of most women her age and said “I NEED to dance…but not with just anybody.” The music video gave us classic blonde, curly-haired Whitney and that in itself is simply beautiful, however decades after release, “I Wanna Dance with Somebody” remains a timeless jam that will instantly lift anyone’s spirits.

You’ve been waiting for it, and now you can breathe. The Bodyguard Soundtrack. For this existential pop classic, Whit essentially dropped the mic on other singers of the day, but what’s so incredibly unique about “I Have Nothing” is that she managed to endear herself to the average fan while still maintaining her diva persona. Of course, most women correlate the lyrics to the movie itself, which provides a more powerful emotional effect, yet the track stands alone as a enduring hit thanks to its insightful content and certainly through Whitney’s incomparable voice.

At the time of release, this song absolutely devastated a world of women coming to grips with failed relationships…but in a most beautiful way. And considering how the future would play out for Whitney Houston, the concept of “Didn’t We Almost Have It All” becomes even more heartbreaking. Like many relatable pop stars, Whitney sang with genuine emotion, which allowed listeners to not only feel the music but participate in the experience. And with all due respect to those who attempt to cover this early Whitney hit, they’ll never quite be able to sell the words like the singer herself.

Before we unveil our top pick, here are a few honorable mentions.

“I’m Every Woman”
The Bodyguard: Original Soundtrack Album (1992)

“So Emotional”
Whitney (1987)

“My Love Is Your Love”
My Love Is Your Love (1998)

“Run to You”
The Bodyguard: Original Soundtrack Album (1992)

“Exhale (Shoop Shoop)”
Waiting to Exhale: Original Soundtrack Album (1995)

“I Look to You”
I Look to You (2009)

As we’ve already mentioned, Whitney had a way of taking another person’s words and making them her own. She could take a basic concept and create a transcendent experience. So, as Whitney prepared for her feature film debut, all involved recognized the importance of the occasion and the singer’s ability to deliver a message, especially for such a progressive film like “The Bodyguard.” As a result, Dolly Parton’s original version received a 90s update, as Whitney Houston produced one of the most powerful moments in film history and perhaps the most recognizable vocal ever recorded.

So, do you agree with our selections? What is your favorite Whitney Houston song? For more mind-blowing Top 10s published daily, be sure to subscribe to MsMojo.