“I Wanna Dance With Somebody (Who Loves Me)” is a vibrant and uplifting pop anthem by Whitney Houston, released in May 1987 with “Moment of Truth” on the B-side as the lead single from her second studio album, Whitney. Written by George Merrill and Shannon Rubicam, the duo behind her earlier hit “How Will I Know,” the song became one of Houston’s most iconic tracks and a cornerstone of her legacy as a pop superstar.
The lyrics express the universal longing for love and connection, paired with the joy and freedom of dancing. Musically, the track is a high-energy dance-pop song with elements of R&B, characterized by its infectious rhythm, punchy synths, and driving drumbeats. Whitney Houston’s dynamic vocal performance elevates the track, blending playful exuberance with powerful emotion. Her ability to convey both vulnerability and empowerment through her voice makes the song instantly memorable.
“I Wanna Dance With Somebody” was a massive commercial success, topping the Billboard Hot 100 in the United States and reaching No. 1 in over a dozen countries, including the United Kingdom, Canada, and Australia. It won Houston her second Grammy Award, taking home the prize for Best Female Pop Vocal Performance in 1988.