It was May of 1986 when the late Whitney Houston started a three-week run at #1 on the US Singles Charts for the hit song ‘Greatest Love Of All’. The song was acclaimed far and wide, managing to top the UK charts simultaneously. Written by songwriters Michael Masser and Linda Creed, who was recovering from breast cancer when they wrote the song together in 1977. George Benson originally recorded the song, but his version only went to #24 on the US charts, a far cry from where Whitney took the song.

Hailing from the self-titled album, Whitney Houston, the song was one of many that went on to become a veritable anthem. Other songs on the album that became a huge success include “You Give Good Love”, the Grammy-winning “Saving All My Love For You,” and “How Will I Know”. Not only did the album establish Whitney as an important new recording artist, it went on to sell over 12 million copies in the U.S., plus millions more abroad. The album was the biggest selling debut album by a solo artist to date.

The lyrics of the song discuss being strong amidst going through a difficult struggle and the feelings that come with coping with a challenge. Knowing the great troubles that Whitney dealt with in her life, it’s not surprising that this song was such a great success. The record is one that connects people of all ages. It is a universal theme to deal with trying times and Whitney was able to bring that message to her fans with a beautiful song. Whitney will be greatly missed for her unreal voice and shining light.