About the song
Whitney Houston’s “I Wanna Dance with Somebody (Who Loves Me)” is a timeless classic that continues to resonate with listeners of all ages. Released in 1987 as the lead single from her second studio album, “Whitney,” this infectious dance-pop track became an instant sensation. Written by George Merrill and Shannon Rubicam, the same talented duo behind her earlier hit “How Will I Know,” the song showcases Houston’s powerful and emotive vocal prowess.
“I Wanna Dance with Somebody” quickly climbed the charts, securing the number one spot on the Billboard Hot 100 and topping charts in multiple countries, including the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and several European nations. The song’s irresistible blend of vibrant rhythms and heartfelt lyrics captures the longing for companionship and the joy of dancing with someone special, themes that are universally relatable.
The song’s production, characterized by its energetic beat and catchy melody, perfectly complements Whitney’s dynamic voice, making it a favorite on dance floors worldwide. Its success not only solidified Houston’s status as a pop icon but also earned her a Grammy Award for Best Female Pop Vocal Performance in 1988.
Beyond its commercial success, “I Wanna Dance with Somebody” remains a beloved anthem, frequently covered and performed by artists across various genres. It epitomizes the exuberance and spirit of the late 1980s, encapsulating the era’s love for vibrant, feel-good music. For many, hearing this song brings back fond memories of youthful nights spent dancing and singing along, making it a cherished piece of musical history.
Whitney Houston’s legacy is beautifully reflected in this song, as it continues to bring joy and inspiration to new generations of listeners, reminding us all of the pure, unadulterated pleasure of dancing with somebody who loves us.
Video
Lyrics
Aah
Yeah
Woo
Hey yeah
Haa
Ooh yeah
Ah-ha
Yeah
I wanna dance
Clock strikes upon the hour
And the sun begins to fade
Still enough time to figure out
How to chase my blues away
I’ve done alright up ’till now
It’s the light of day that shows me how
And when the night falls, loneliness calls
Oh, I wanna dance with somebody
I wanna feel the heat with somebody
Yeah, I wanna dance with somebody
With somebody who loves me
Oh, I wanna dance with somebody
I wanna feel the heat with somebody
Yeah, I wanna dance with somebody
With somebody who loves me
I’ve been in love and lost my senses
Spinning through the town
Sooner or later, the fever ends
And I wind up feeling down
I need a man who’ll take the chance
On a love that burns hot enough to last
So when the night falls
My lonely heart calls
Oh, I wanna dance with somebody
I wanna feel the heat with somebody
Yeah, I wanna dance with somebody
With somebody who loves me
Oh, I wanna dance with somebody
I wanna feel the heat
Yeah, I wanna dance with somebody
With somebody who loves me
Somebody who, somebody who
Somebody who loves me yeah
Somebody who, somebody who
To hold me in his arms oh
I need a man who’ll take the chance
On a love that burns hot enough to last
So when the night falls
My lonely heart calls
Oh, I wanna dance with somebody
I wanna feel the heat with somebody
Yeah, I wanna dance with somebody
With somebody who loves me
Oh, I wanna dance with somebody
I wanna feel the heat with somebody
Yeah, I wanna dance with somebody
With somebody who loves me
Ooh ooh (dance)
Come on baby (dance)
Ooh, yeah (dance)
Now get with this
Whoah!
Don’tcha wanna dance with me baby?
Don’tcha wanna dance with me boy?
Hey don’tcha wanna dance with me baby?
With somebody who loves me?
Don’tcha wanna dance, say you wanna dance, don’tcha wanna dance
Don’tcha wanna dance, say you wanna dance, don’tcha wanna dance
Don’tcha wanna dance, say you wanna dance, ah-ha
With somebody who loves me
Dance, dance, dance (hey baby!)