Whitney Houston. The name itself conjures images of unparalleled vocal prowess, captivating stage presence, and a string of chart-topping hits that defined a generation. Among her vast and celebrated discography, one song stands out as an exuberant declaration of joy and a timeless dance-pop anthem: “I Wanna Dance With Somebody (Who Loves Me).” Released in 1987 as the lead single from her second album, Whitney, this track not only solidified her status as a global superstar but also gifted the world with a music video as vibrant and unforgettable as the song itself. Let’s delve into the dazzling world of early Whitney and explore why this music video remains an iconic piece of 80s pop culture.
The genius of “I Wanna Dance With Somebody” lies in its relatable yearning for connection and love, wrapped in an irresistibly upbeat melody. The song’s title itself, with its parenthetical addition “(Who Loves Me),” speaks volumes about the universal desire to not just dance, but to share that joy with someone special. It’s a sentiment that resonates across generations, making the song as relevant today as it was upon its release.
The music video for “I Wanna Dance With Somebody” perfectly encapsulates the energy and spirit of the song, offering a visually stunning representation of 80s pop extravagance. It’s a time capsule of the era’s fashion, makeup, and set design trends, showcasing Whitney at the peak of her youthful radiance and undeniable charisma.
One of the most striking aspects of the video is its vibrant visual palette. The use of bold, saturated colors is a hallmark of 80s aesthetics, and the “I Wanna Dance With Somebody” video embraces this wholeheartedly. From brightly colored backdrops to Whitney’s own eye-catching outfits, the video is a feast for the eyes.
kelly kapowski
The set design also plays a crucial role in establishing the video’s 80s vibe. The use of geometric shapes and abstract structures, often in neon or pastel colors, was a popular trend in photography and music video sets during this era. These elements, while seemingly pointless in a practical sense, contributed to the overall stylized and futuristic aesthetic that was so prevalent in 80s pop culture.
whitney h 1
Fashion in the “I Wanna Dance With Somebody” video is another key element that screams “1980s.” Whitney’s denim jacket, adorned with embellishments, is a perfect example of the era’s penchant for bold and decorative clothing. The video is a showcase of big hair, bright makeup, and statement jewelry, all essential components of 80s fashion.
whitney h 2
Beyond the visual spectacle, the “I Wanna Dance With Somebody” music video also subtly touches upon the realities of fame and performance. Scenes of Whitney performing on stage in black and white contrast with the colorful, energetic sequences, hinting at the duality of a pop star’s life. The black and white segments can be interpreted as representing the more solitary and demanding aspects of touring, even amidst the adoration of fans.
whitney h 3
This contrast is further emphasized by shots of Whitney backstage, seemingly alone and contemplative. These moments suggest a yearning for genuine connection beyond the stage lights and cheering crowds, echoing the song’s core desire to dance with somebody who truly loves her.
whitney h 4
However, the video quickly transitions from these introspective moments into a celebration of the joy and freedom that music videos can offer. The video playfully highlights the fantastical possibilities within the medium, contrasting them with the constraints of live performance.
One of the recurring themes is the freedom to experiment with different looks and styles. The video showcases Whitney with a variety of hairstyles, from super tight curls to big, voluminous bangs. This playful approach to hair and makeup is a hallmark of 80s music videos, where artists often used visuals to express creativity and personality in ways that live performances couldn’t always accommodate.
whitney h 6
Makeup, particularly eyeshadow, is another element celebrated in the video. The bold use of color and glitter on the eyelids was a defining makeup trend of the 80s, and the video embraces this trend enthusiastically. It’s a playful nod to the era’s maximalist approach to beauty, a stark contrast to more minimalist contemporary trends.
whitney h 7
The video also revels in the possibilities of set design and visual effects. Color-changing backdrops, something practically impossible in live performances without elaborate stage technology, are seamlessly incorporated into the video. This highlights the music video medium as a space for visual innovation and creative expression beyond the limitations of the real world.
whitney h 8
whitney h 9
whitney h 10
whitney h 11
Dance is, of course, central to both the song and the video. The inclusion of dancers in music videos was a standard practice, but “I Wanna Dance With Somebody” features choreography that is energetic and reflective of the song’s upbeat tempo. The video playfully introduces the dancers, even humorously comparing one to Gob Bluth and another to Nick Cave, adding a touch of lightheartedness to the visual presentation.
whitney h 12
whitney h 13
whitney h 14
whitney h 15
whitney h 16
whitney h 17
The iconic “changing room shot,” a common trope in 80s media, also makes an appearance, further cementing the video’s place within the decade’s visual lexicon. This playful scene adds to the video’s overall lighthearted and fun atmosphere.
whitney h 18
Graffiti, another symbol of 80s urban culture, is incorporated into the video’s set design. The spray-painted “Get Down” message on a faux fence is a nod to the era’s street art movement and adds a touch of rebellious energy to the otherwise polished pop aesthetic.
whitney h 19
Confetti, now a less common sight due to environmental concerns, was a staple of celebratory moments in the 80s, and its inclusion in the video adds to the festive and joyous mood. The image of Whitney in a bright orange dress, showered in confetti, is one of the video’s most memorable scenes.
whitney h 20
whitney h 21
whitney h 22
Rapid costume and hair changes, another advantage of the music video format, are utilized to full effect. Whitney effortlessly transitions between different looks, showcasing the stylistic versatility that music videos allowed artists to explore. The leopard print hair scarf and short curls are just one example of the many fashionable moments in the video.
whitney h 23
Playful visual effects, like dancing on her own face projected onto a screen, demonstrate the then-cutting-edge film editing technology. These effects, while perhaps simple by today’s standards, were innovative and exciting for audiences in the 80s.
whitney h 24
whitney h 25
whitney h 26
The bodycon dress, a quintessential 80s fashion item, also makes an appearance, further anchoring the video in its era. The mention of a stretchy bodycon swimsuit evokes the tactile and material culture of the time, adding a personal and relatable touch to the analysis.
whitney h 27
whitney h 28
Film editing techniques of the time, like dancing within a film reel, are celebrated as groundbreaking and exciting. This nostalgic appreciation for the technology of the era adds to the video’s charm and historical significance.
whitney h 29
whitney h 30
whitney h 31
The video culminates in a “happy ending” scenario, a classic trope in pop music videos. Whitney, arriving at a glamorous hotel, spontaneously joins a group of dancers heading into a club, embodying the carefree joy and connection the song celebrates. This idealized ending reinforces the escapist and aspirational nature of 80s pop music videos.
Whitney Houston joining dancers at a club, the “happy ending” scene from the music video.
“I Wanna Dance With Somebody” is more than just a catchy song; it’s a cultural artifact. The music video is a vibrant testament to Whitney Houston’s star power and the exuberant spirit of 80s pop music. It perfectly captures the era’s fashion, visual aesthetics, and optimistic energy, while subtly hinting at the universal desire for love and connection. Even decades later, “I Wanna Dance With Somebody” continues to inspire joy and get people on their feet, solidifying its place as a timeless classic and Whitney Houston’s enduring gift to the world of music and dance.
