Album Info
| Artist: | Whitney Houston |
| Album: | Whitney Houston |
| Released: | Australia, Feb 1986 |
Tracklist:
| A2 | Thinking About You | 5:27 |
| A3 | Someone For Me | 4:57 |
| A4 | Saving All My Love For You | 3:57 |
| A5 | Nobody Loves Me Like You Do | 3:46 |
| B1 | How Will I Know | 4:28 |
| B2 | All At Once | 4:26 |
| B3 | Take Good Care Of My Heart | 4:13 |
| B4 | Greatest Love Of All | 4:55 |
| B5 | Hold Me | 6:00 |
Info About Buying Vinyl From Our Record Store
- We are a small independent record store located at 91 Plenty Rd, Preston in Melbourne's North (Australia)
- We buy and sell new and used vinyl records - if you have a collection you'd like to sell please click here.
- All pictures of the second hand/used vinyl records are actual pictures of the album in stock.
- We ship Australia wide for a flat rate of $10 for standard shipping or $15 for express post.
- Free Shipping for orders $150 and over.
- You can also pick up your order in store, just select Local Pickup at the checkout.
- We also ship internationally - prices vary depending on weight and location.
- We ship vinyls in thick, rigid cardboard mailers with a crushable zone on either side, and for extra safety we bubble wrap the records.
- We almost always ship in stock vinyl next business day (excluding pre orders)
- We are strongly committed to customer satisfaction. If you experience any problems with your order contact us so we can rectify the situation. If the record arrives damaged or doesn't arrive we will cover the cost of replacing or returning the record.
- If you change your mind you have 30 days to return your record but you must cover the cost of returning it to the store.
- You can contact our Melbourne record shop at (03) 9939 3807 or at info@funkyduckvinyl.com
- Happy Listening!
Description
Whitney Houston's self-titled debut album, released on February 14, 1985, is a landmark in pop and R&B music that not only catapulted her to superstardom but also set a new standard for vocal excellence in the industry. With its blend of soul, pop, and gospel influences, the album showcases Houston's incredible vocal range and emotional depth, making it a timeless classic that resonates with listeners even today.
From the very first track, "You Give Good Love," listeners are treated to Houston's powerful yet tender voice, which effortlessly glides through the song's smooth melodies. This track was not just a hit; it reached number three on the Billboard Hot 100 and established Houston as a formidable force in the music scene. The production, helmed by Narada Michael Walden, features lush instrumentation and a polished sound that became a hallmark of 80s pop music.
One of the standout tracks on the album is undoubtedly "The Greatest Love of All." Originally written for George Benson, Houston's rendition transformed the song into an anthem of self-empowerment and resilience. The song's message, combined with Houston's soaring vocals, made it a favorite among fans and critics alike. It reached number one on the Billboard Hot 100 and has since been covered by numerous artists, further cementing its place in music history.
The album also features the iconic ballad "How Will I Know," which showcases Houston's ability to blend pop sensibilities with her gospel roots. The upbeat tempo and catchy chorus make it a quintessential 80s pop song, and it became another chart-topping hit for Houston, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100. The music video, with its vibrant colors and energetic choreography, helped to solidify her image as a pop superstar.
Critical reception of the album was overwhelmingly positive. Major publications like Rolling Stone praised Houston's vocal prowess, noting that she brought a new level of artistry to pop music. The album was nominated for several awards, including a Grammy nomination for Best Female Pop Vocal Performance for "The Greatest Love of All." Although it did not win, the nomination itself was a testament to Houston's impact on the music industry.
Historically, Whitney Houston's debut album is significant not only for its commercial success—selling over 30 million copies worldwide—but also for its cultural impact. Houston, as a Black woman in the music industry, broke barriers and paved the way for future generations of artists. Her success challenged the norms of the time and opened doors for more diverse representation in pop music.
Interestingly, the album's production involved a collaborative effort with several notable songwriters and producers, including Michael Masser and Linda Creed, who contributed to the album's standout tracks. Houston's ability to interpret these songs with such emotional depth is a testament to her talent and artistry. In interviews, Houston often spoke about her influences, citing artists like Aretha Franklin and Chaka Khan, which is evident in her powerful vocal delivery.
In addition to its commercial success, the album's legacy continues to be felt today. It has been included in numerous "greatest albums" lists and is often referenced in discussions about the best debut albums of all time. Whitney Houston's influence can be seen in the work of contemporary artists who cite her as an inspiration, and her music remains a staple on playlists across generations.
In conclusion, Whitney Houston's debut album is not just a collection of songs; it is a defining moment in music history. With its blend of powerful ballads and infectious pop hits, it showcases the extraordinary talent of an artist who would go on to become one of the best-selling music artists of all time. Whether you're revisiting the album or discovering it for the first time, it's impossible not to be moved by the sheer brilliance of Whitney Houston's voice and the timeless quality of her music.
