Whitney Houston Makes History with Third Diamond Album

With her second studio album, the self-titled, “Whitney”, receiving an RIAA diamond certification, Whitney Houston has made history. The iconic singer-songwriter has officially become the only black recording artist to have three albums be certified diamond by the RIAA. Further, with this record, the songstress surpasses fellow black artists – Michael Jackson, Prince and more.

Whitney Shines Bright: 10x Platinum

“Whitney”, Houston’s second full length studio album, was released back in 1987. The album went on to deliver a total of 5 Top 10 Billboard Hot 100 hits. Further, 4 of those 5 secured the No. 1 spot upon release: “I Wanna Dance With Somebody (Who Loves Me),” “Didn’t We Almost Have It All,” “So Emotional” and “Where Do Broken Hearts Go”. And, with that, she also became the first female recording artist ever to score 4 consecutive No. 1s on the chart.

Further, “Whitney” has gone on to sell more than 20 million copies worldwide. The other two albums that join the trio, giving Houston this massive accolade are: the soundtrack to The Bodyguard (18x Platinum), and her debut album, “Whitney Houston” (13x Platinum).

Honourable Mentions: Diamond Sellers

Before the arrival of this news, Houston sat in an elite club of 3 other black double-diamond album makers: Michael Jackson, Mariah Carey and 2Pac. Further, there have been only 10 other black recording artists to have 1 album go diamond. And, they are, Prince & the Revolution, Boyz II Men, TLC, The Notorious B.I.G., OutKast, Hammer, Lionel Richie, Nelly, Stevie Wonder and Usher.

In other news, Whitney Houston’s estate has confirmed the arrival of a 2022 Thanksgiving release: a biopic of the songstress. The project, titled “I Wanna Dance With Somebody”, and will serve as the official Whitney biopic. Further, the film is slated to enter a 2021 production timeline.

By: Ahalya Narayanan