17/05/2026
On this day in 1986, Whitney Houston reached a remarkable moment in her early career when her powerful rendition of Greatest Love of All climbed to No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100, marking the third chart-topping single of her career. The achievement confirmed what audiences were already beginning to realize — Whitney’s voice was not only extraordinary, it was shaping the sound of an era.
The song itself had an earlier history. Michael Masser and Linda Creed wrote it for the 1977 film The Greatest, a movie based on the life of boxing legend Muhammad Ali. The first recording was performed by jazz and R&B artist George Benson, giving the song its initial place in music history.
Nearly a decade later, Whitney Houston transformed the song into something timeless. Her interpretation turned the composition into an anthem about dignity, self-worth, and inner strength. Audiences around the world responded immediately.
Beyond topping the Hot 100, Whitney’s version also reached No. 1 in Australia, Canada, and Ireland, demonstrating its global impact. In April 1986, it also climbed to the top of Billboard Adult Contemporary Chart, where Whitney’s emotional delivery resonated deeply with listeners.
The recording would go on to receive 2Ă— Platinum certification from the Recording Industry Association of America, reflecting its lasting popularity and millions of copies sold.
One of the most touching elements connected to the song appeared in its music video, where Whitney performed alongside her mother, gospel legend Cissy Houston. Their presence together added an intimate layer to the story — a visual reminder that the message of the song was rooted not only in music, but also in family, guidance, and love passed from one generation to the next.