Whitney Houston's 'Strength' Track Not Strong Enough
Her label has not confirmed that the song will be the official first single from her album, "I Look To You," due out on September 1.
On the song written by Diane Warren, Whitney discusses resurfacing after encountering hard times. "I crashed down, I tumbled, but I did not crumble," she sings. "I got through all the pain. I didn't know my own strength."
It is clear that Whitney is referring to the last several years of her life.
Speculation about her drug abuse and tumultuous relationship with her bad boy
ex-husband Bobby Brown made her a tabloid fixture.
The lyrics say that she has "survived" her "darkest hour," something she attributes to her faith.
Considering all that she has been though and the public speculation, it is a good move for her to confront her obstacles in her music. It will help her fans reconnect and champion her return.
The bigger question is whether or not she can deliver an album that will resonate with fans. While the subject matter is important, she has a lot more pressure to bear because her career has always been based on her superior talent.
Consider that we still use her performance of "I Will Always Love You" as the barometer of how great she can sound; it leaves "Strength" falling short.
"Strength" is pleasant, but it lacks the punch we have come to expect from a Whitney track. There is no breakout moment that gives you the chills and excites you with anticipation on a subsequent listen.
I am glad that Whitney is coming back and will be sure to watch her performance on the "Good Morning American" concert series this fall. But I like my Whitney a bit stronger.
If it turns out that "Strength" is the "I Turn To You" lead track, maybe it will serve as a filler to set up her return. Maybe afterwards she will release a bigger song?
Ironically, as I've listened to recent songs from Jennifer Hudson and Michelle Williams, it was clear that their sounds were influenced by Whitney. I think some of their songs, "Spotlight" and "We Break The Dawn," respectively, would have been massive hits had Whitney performed them.
Just because I think "Strength" is just ok does not mean that I don't think Whitney can make a solid comeback. She can. It just boils down to having the right music. I have my fingers crossed.
Hey Whitney - See You In Vegas!!! Drug Addict!