Whitney Houston’s 10 Most Iconic Cover Songs

Whitney Houston was a powerhouse vocalist with a career spanning decades. While her original music put her on the map, she also had a knack for delivering unforgettable covers of classic songs. Houston’s interpretations were often so powerful that she made them her own, inspiring new generations of fans.

Houston’s range as a singer allowed her to tackle a variety of genres, and her covers showcased this diversity. She could bring the soulful intensity required for a powerful ballad and nail a dance track’s groove. Her covers were beloved for their ability to connect with listeners emotionally, and many of them have become timeless classics in their own right.

From stirring ballads to upbeat pop hits, Houston’s 10 most iconic cover songs represent some of the greatest moments of her career. These songs demonstrate just how versatile and talented she was as a performer and continue inspiring music lovers worldwide. Let’s take a closer look at these unforgettable tracks and their impact on popular culture.

In ranking the list of the 10 most iconic cover songs recorded by Whitney Houston, the following factors are considered in eligibility and ranking order.

• A song has to be a defining and iconic tune for the recording artist according to fans, music enthusiasts familiar with the music act, and the talent.
• Songs that have the most success on music sales, internet streaming, and radio airplay charts, past and present, influence rankings.
• Songs that have carried popularity into recent years through film, television, commercials, song samples, modern recording covers, karaoke gatherings, pop culture lists, and modern radio and streaming playlists are heavily considered.
• Songs that can be widely identified through lyrics or instrumentation influence rankings.

Before I share the top 10 list, here are the honorable mentions.

“Joy To The World”
“Step By Step”
“Ain’t No Way”
“I Know Him So Well”
“Jesus Loves Me”
“Hold Me”

10. “Higher Love”

“Higher Love” is considered one of Whitney Houston’s greatest cover songs as she injects her signature vocal power, energy, and passion into the catchy dance-pop track. Houston’s version, produced by Narada Michael Walden, was first released as a bonus track on the Japanese version of her 1990 album “I’m Your Baby Tonight.” The original recording was by Steve Winwood in 1986, and the songwriting credits go to Winwood and Will Jennings. Houston’s cover became a hit in its own right and won a posthumous Grammy for Best Remix Recording in 2020.

9. “I Love The Lord”

“I Love The Lord” is considered one of Whitney Houston’s greatest cover songs as it showcases her ability to deliver a soulful and gospel-infused performance that truly resonates with listeners. The cover, produced by Mervyn Warren, was featured in the 1996 film “The Preacher’s Wife,” in which Houston starred. The original recording was by Richard Smallwood, and the songwriting credits go to Smallwood as well. Houston’s rendition received critical acclaim and went on to win a Grammy for Best Gospel Performance in 1998.

8. “When You Believe”

“When You Believe” is considered one of Whitney Houston’s greatest cover songs, showcasing her ability to create a powerful and emotionally charged duet. The cover was produced by Babyface and featured on the soundtrack for the 1998 film “The Prince of Egypt.” The original recording was by Mariah Carey and Whitney Houston, with Stephen Schwartz providing the lyrics and Hans Zimmer providing the music. Houston’s version showcases her vocal talents and emotional range, making it a standout track in her discography.

7. “I Believe In You And Me”

“I Believe in You and Me” is considered one of Whitney Houston’s greatest cover songs as it showcases her ability to deliver a heartwarming and soulful performance. The cover was produced by Babyface and featured on Houston’s 1996 album “The Preacher’s Wife,” for which the film of the same name was a soundtrack. The original recording was by The Four Tops in 1983, and the songwriting credits go to Sandy Linzer and David Wolfert. Houston’s version became a fan favorite and a testament to her vocal prowess.

6. “All The Man That I Need”

“All The Man That I Need” is considered one of Whitney Houston’s greatest cover songs as it showcases her ability to convey an emotionally stirring message. The cover was produced by Narada Michael Walden and featured on Houston’s 1990 album “I’m Your Baby Tonight.” The original recording was by Linda Clifford in 1982, and the songwriting credits go to Dean Pitchford and Michael Gore. Houston’s version became a chart-topping hit and a fan favorite, demonstrating her vocal range and power.

5. “Saving All My Love For You”

“Saving All My Love For You” is considered one of Whitney Houston’s greatest cover songs as it showcases her vocal range and ability to deliver heartfelt emotion. The cover, produced by Michael Masser, was first released on Houston’s self-titled debut album in 1985 and went on to win a Grammy for Best Female Pop Vocal Performance the following year. The original recording was by Marilyn McCoo and Billy Davis Jr., and the songwriting credits go to Masser and Gerry Goffin. Houston’s rendition became a chart-topping hit and remains a beloved classic.

4. “Star Spangled Banner”

Whitney Houston’s version of “The Star Spangled Banner” is considered one of her greatest cover songs as it has become an iconic performance and a testament to her vocal abilities. The live recording was produced by Rickey Minor and featured during the Super Bowl XXV in 1991. The original version is the United States of America’s national anthem, with lyrics by Francis Scott Key and music taken from a British song written by John Stafford Smith. Houston’s rendition became a commercial success, with proceeds from its sales going to charities that support veterans and their families.

3. “Greatest Love Of All”

“Greatest Love of All” is considered one of Whitney Houston’s greatest cover songs as it showcases her ability to inspire and uplift listeners. The cover was produced by Michael Masser and featured on Houston’s self-titled debut album in 1985. The original recording was by George Benson in 1977, and the songwriting credits go to Michael Masser and Linda Creed. Houston’s version became a chart-topping success and remains a beloved anthem of self-love and self-empowerment.

2. “I’m Every Woman”

“I’m Every Woman” is considered one of Whitney Houston’s greatest cover songs as it showcases her ability to deliver an empowering and upbeat performance. The cover, produced by Narada Michael Walden, was featured on the 1992 soundtrack album for “The Bodyguard,” in which Houston starred. The original recording was by Chaka Khan, and the songwriting credits go to Nickolas Ashford and Valerie Simpson. Houston’s rendition became a commercial success and a dance-floor favorite, cementing her status as an icon.

1. “I Will Always Love You”

“I Will Always Love You” is considered one of Whitney Houston’s greatest cover songs as it showcases her vocal prowess and ability to deliver an emotionally powerful ballad. Houston’s cover of the iconic Dolly Parton song was produced by David Foster and featured on the soundtrack for the 1992 film “The Bodyguard,” in which Houston starred. The original recording was by Parton in 1974, and she wrote the song as well. Houston’s version became a major commercial success, staying at #1 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart for 14 weeks and becoming one of the best-selling singles of all time.

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