Whitney Houston Receives 11 New RIAA Certifications
The Estate of Whitney E. Houston has recently revealed eleven new certifications granted by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) to honor the legendary icon Whitney Houston. This year is particularly special as it marks the 40th Anniversary of Whitney’s illustrious career in the music and entertainment industry, spanning from February 14, 2025, to February 14, 2026.
Even in the era of digital streaming, Whitney Houston continues to shine as a chart-topper with remarkable sales figures from her Arista Records music catalog. Her incredible success includes a combination of physical sales, digital downloads, and on-demand audio and video streams. The newly announced RIAA certifications for Whitney Houston encompass one album, “The Bodyguard: Original Soundtrack Album” (19x Platinum), as well as ten of her most iconic songs. Among these songs are chart-toppers like “I Will Always Love You” (11x Platinum), “I Wanna Dance with Somebody (Who Loves Me)” (8x Platinum), “I Have Nothing” (4x Platinum), “Higher Love” with Kygo, “How Will I Know” (each song certified 3x Platinum), “Heartbreak Hotel,” “My Love Is Your Love,” and “Saving All My Love” (each song certified 2x Platinum), along with “Run To You” and “Count On Me” (each song certified Platinum).
Whitney Houston’s legacy is truly remarkable, with the distinction of being the first Black artist to have three RIAA Diamond-certified albums, each reaching 10x Platinum status. These albums comprise her self-titled debut album, her second studio album, “Whitney,” and “The Bodyguard: Original Soundtrack Album.”
It is worth noting that these new RIAA certifications specifically focus on the U.S. music market and do not include certifications from the 195 countries globally. In the United States alone, Whitney Houston’s RIAA-certified units amount to an impressive 114.5 across 38 titles, encompassing 27 singles and 11 albums. Reflecting on this momentous occasion, Pat Houston, the executor of The Estate of Whitney E. Houston, expressed gratitude to Whitney’s dedicated fans and all those who contributed to her recordings, productions, and marketing efforts over the years.
RIAA President and Chief Operating Officer Michele Ballantyne commended Whitney Houston’s unparalleled influence and music, which continues to resonate across generations. With eleven new certifications, the RIAA acknowledges the enduring impact of Whitney Houston’s artistry in the music industry. This recognition also underscores the fruitful partnership between the Estate and Sony Music in preserving and promoting Whitney’s musical legacy among new and existing fans worldwide.
In closing, the Estate of Whitney E. Houston, in collaboration with Sony Music Entertainment and Legacy Recordings, wholeheartedly appreciates the unwavering support and admiration shown by fans who have upheld Whitney’s musical brilliance throughout the years. The Estate extends its heartfelt gratitude to all those who have contributed to celebrating the 40th anniversary of Whitney Houston’s remarkable career, ensuring her music lives on for future generations to come.