Whitney Houston’s “How Will I Know” is one of the most beloved pop songs of the 1980s. The song remains a timeless classic for its catchy hook, uplifting message and Houston’s powerful vocal performance. But what does the song mean and why does it resonate so powerfully with people? Let’s take a closer look at the lyrics of “How Will I Know” to find out.
The Meaning Of “How Will I Know”
The lyrics of “How Will I Know” tell the story of a young woman who is unsure of her relationship with a man. She’s anxious to know whether he truly loves her, and whether their relationship will last. She expresses her doubts in the song’s chorus, singing “How will I know if he really loves me? I say a prayer with every heart beat. I fall in love whenever we meet.” The song is an ode to young love and the uncertainty that comes with it.
Themes Of Love And Loss
The song explores the themes of love and loss, and how they both affect our emotions. The lyrics also suggest that love can be fragile and that it’s often difficult to know if someone truly loves us. Houston sings “I search myself, I want to be sure. I know I love him, but is it enough?” The song serves as a reminder that love is never certain, and that we must be brave and take risks in order to experience true love.
The Song’s Production
The production of the song is also noteworthy. Houston’s powerful vocals are complemented by a catchy beat, synthesizers, and a bouncy bassline. The song also includes a rap section in the middle with the lyrics “My friends keep telling me, move on, he’s just not your type. But I can’t let go, cause I love him so”. This rap section is a reminder that love doesn’t always work out the way we hope, no matter how hard we try.
The Video
The music video for “How Will I Know” was released in 1986 and was directed by Wayne Isham. The video features Houston in a variety of different settings, including a club, a beach and a carnival. The video also includes scenes with dancer Ollie Wood dancing in a park and singing along to the song. The video is an iconic part of the song’s legacy and is often what people think of when they hear the song.
The Legacy Of “How Will I Know”
“How Will I Know” is one of Houston’s most beloved songs and is widely regarded as one of the greatest pop songs of all time. The song has been covered by numerous artists, including Selena Gomez, Coldplay and Maroon 5. The song has also been featured in various films and television shows, including “The Simpsons”, “Glee” and “The Princess Diaries”. The song’s message of love and loss resonates with many people, and it’s no surprise that it continues to be popular today.
Conclusion
Whitney Houston’s “How Will I Know” is an iconic pop song that has stood the test of time. The song’s message of love and loss is relatable and timeless, and its catchy melody and powerful vocal performance make it a classic. The song’s music video, production and legacy are all part of what makes it so special. Whether you’re a fan of Houston’s music or not, it’s hard to deny the impact that “How Will I Know” has had on pop culture.
