Whitney Houston died at the age of 48 in 2012. She was one of the most successful pop artists of all time, selling in excess of 200 million albums.
Her first album was one of the most successful debuts in music history, selling 20 million copies, topping the Billboard Magazine Charts for 14 weeks, and spawning three number one singles.
In celebration of the 35 anniversary of that first self-titled album, Whitney Houston, it has been reissued in its original vinyl format as a two-disc box set. The first disc is a remastering of the original album. The second disc is a reissue of the Japan issue Whitney Dancin’ Special, which is a collection of six extended dance tracks. Also included is a hard cover booklet. In addition, everything has been issued on 180 gram peaches and marbles vinyl.
The music was remastered from the original tapes. When the records are played on a superior system, the sound is clear and brings out the various textures and depth of the music.
Hits “Saving All My Love For You,” “Greatest Love Of All,” and “How Will I Know” are still well-known pop creations and were perfect vehicles for one of the best voices of her generation as she just soars. They remain memorable over three decades after their initial release.
There were three duets that hold up well. The best is “Hold Me” with Teddy Pendergrass. His soulful voice is a nice counterpoint to Houston’s. Other songs such as “You Give Good Love,” “Thinking Of You,” and “All At Once” may not rise to the level of her big hits, but they are still very good.
The Whitney Dancin’ Special disc is more dated. “How Will I Know,” “You Give Good Love,” “Someone,” and “Thinking About You” are extended with repetitive instrumentals that were perfect for the disco dance floor of the mid 1980s.
Whitney Houston: 35th Anniversary Edition is not for the casual fan or someone looking for an introduction to her music. Rather, it is aimed at her fan base and in that regard, it succeeds admirably.
