About the song
“The Greatest Love of All,” originally penned by Michael Masser and Linda Creed, embodies a legacy of inspiration and resilience in the realm of music. Initially released in 1977 by George Benson for the film “The Greatest,” which honored Muhammad Ali, the song quickly became a soulful anthem of self-affirmation. Benson’s rendition soared on charts, marking a pivotal success for Arista Records.
However, it was Whitney Houston’s rendition in 1985 that truly immortalized the song. Her version, titled “Greatest Love of All,” became a cultural phenomenon, topping charts worldwide and solidifying her status as a vocal powerhouse. Houston’s interpretation resonated deeply, blending her soulful voice with poignant lyrics that speak of self-love and inner strength.
The song’s origin story adds another layer of intrigue. Initially hesitant, Clive Davis of Arista Records initially resisted including it in Houston’s debut album, but her impassioned plea won him over. Released as the B-side to “You Give Good Love,” it later emerged as a standalone hit, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100.
Critically acclaimed for its powerful message and Houston’s emotive delivery, “Greatest Love of All” remains one of her signature songs. Critics hailed it as the centerpiece of her debut album, praising its spiritual depth and emotional resonance. The accompanying music video, filmed at Harlem’s Apollo Theater, captured Houston’s journey from a child performer to a celebrated artist, underscored by her mother’s supportive presence.
Beyond its chart-topping success, the song has been celebrated for its enduring impact on popular culture. It was featured prominently in various media, including RuPaul’s Drag Race, where contestants paid homage to its soul-stirring melody and profound lyrics.
In retrospect, “Greatest Love of All” stands not only as a testament to Whitney Houston’s vocal prowess but also as a timeless anthem of self-empowerment and resilience. Its legacy continues to inspire new generations, solidifying its place as one of the most beloved songs in contemporary music history.
Video
Lyrics
I believe the children are our future
Teach them well and let them lead the way
Show them all the beauty they possess inside
Give them a sense of pride to make it easier
Let the children’s laughter remind us how we used to be
Everybody searching for a hero
People need someone to look up to
I never found anyone who fulfill my needs
A lonely place to be
And so I learned to depend on me
I decided long ago
Never to walk in anyone’s shadows
If I fail, if I succeed
At least I’ll live as I believe
No matter what they take from me
They can’t take away my dignity
Because the greatest love of all
Is happening to me
I found the greatest love of all
Inside of me
The greatest love of all
Is easy to achieve
Learning to love yourself
It is the greatest love of all
I believe the children are our future
Teach them well and let them lead the way
Show them all the beauty they possess inside
Give them a sense of pride to make it easier
Let the children’s laughter remind us how we used to be
I decided long ago
Never to walk in anyone’s shadows
If I fail, if I succeed
At least I’ll live as I believe
No matter what they take from me
They can’t take away my dignity
Because the greatest love of all
Is happening to me
I found the greatest love of all
Inside of me
The greatest love of all
Is easy to achieve
Learning to love yourself
Is the greatest love of all
And if, by chance, that special place
That you’ve been dreaming of
Leads you to a lonely place
Find your strength in love