Introduction
Whitney Houston’s hit single “I Wanna Dance With Somebody (Who Loves Me)” is an iconic ’80s anthem that has been beloved by generations since its release. The song has become a classic, but who wrote it? Let’s explore the creative team of George Merrill and Shannon Rubicam, and how they changed the face of pop music with this timeless hit.
Exploring the Creative Minds Behind Whitney Houston’s Hit “I Wanna Dance With Somebody”
The writing of “I Wanna Dance With Somebody” was a collaborative effort between two songwriters, George Merrill and Shannon Rubicam. According to Billboard, George Merrill and Shannon Rubicam “had already written a couple of songs for Whitney—’How Will I Know’ and ‘Thinking About You’—and were looking for something new to give her.” The pair came up with a catchy melody, and the idea for the song quickly began to take shape.
The songwriting process was inspired by their own experiences. “We had both gone through some relationship stuff, so we just took the emotion of that and put it into the song,” said Merrill. “We wanted to write a song that was celebratory and empowering, that also expressed the feeling of being alive and in love.”
A Look at the Songwriting Team Behind Whitney Houston’s Iconic ’80s Anthem
Merrill and Rubicam met in the early 1980s, when they were both working as songwriters in Los Angeles. They began collaborating on various projects, and eventually formed a successful songwriting duo. In addition to writing songs for Whitney Houston, they also wrote hits for other artists such as Madonna and Diana Ross. They were known for their distinct sound, which blended elements of funk, soul, and pop.
The two were heavily influenced by the music of the ’70s and ’80s. As Rubicam explained, “We grew up listening to Motown and all the great soul singers, and we wanted to bring that kind of energy and emotion into our music. We wanted to make sure that every song we wrote had a message and a groove that people could relate to.”
The Influence of George Merrill and Shannon Rubicam on Pop Music
Merrill and Rubicam’s influence on pop music is undeniable. Their songs have become staples in the genre, and their sound has been imitated by countless artists over the years. As Rolling Stone notes, “Their work helped define the sound of ’80s pop: a slick, synth-driven mix of R&B, funk, and dance music.”
In addition to influencing the sound of pop music, the duo also helped shape the lyrics. “They gave us something to sing about,” said Whitney Houston. “Their songs were always uplifting and empowering, and they always had a positive message.”
An Interview With the Writers of “I Wanna Dance With Somebody”
In a recent interview, Merrill and Rubicam discussed the creative process behind “I Wanna Dance With Somebody” and their inspirations for the song. “We wanted to write something that would get people out on the dance floor,” said Merrill. “We wanted to create a song that people could relate to and that would be fun to listen to.”
The two also discussed their musical influences. “We drew inspiration from a lot of different sources,” said Rubicam. “We were inspired by everything from disco to funk to soul. We wanted to create a song that would capture the energy of those genres and bring them together in a unique way.”
How George Merrill and Shannon Rubicam Changed Pop Music Forever
The impact of George Merrill and Shannon Rubicam on pop music cannot be overstated. Their songs have become classics, and their sound has been emulated by countless artists over the years. “They created a sound that was unique and instantly recognizable,” said music producer Jimmy Jam. “Their songs have stood the test of time, and they will continue to influence generations to come.”
Merrill and Rubicam’s legacy is not limited to their music. They also helped pave the way for female artists in the industry. “They were two of the first songwriters to write for female artists,” said Houston. “They opened the door for a lot of other women to follow in their footsteps and make their mark on the music world.”
The Story Behind the Writing of Whitney Houston’s “I Wanna Dance With Somebody”
The story behind the writing of “I Wanna Dance With Somebody” is one of collaboration and creativity. Merrill and Rubicam worked together to create a song that was uplifting and empowering, and that would be remembered for generations to come. “It was a true collaboration,” said Rubicam. “We wanted to create a song that people could connect with, and that would make them feel good.”
The song captured the spirit of the ’80s, and it remains an iconic pop anthem to this day. As Houston reflected, “It was a song that resonated with people, and it still does today. It’s a reminder that life is meant to be enjoyed and celebrated.”
Conclusion
The songwriting team of George Merrill and Shannon Rubicam left an indelible mark on pop music with their hit single “I Wanna Dance With Somebody (Who Loves Me)”. Through their unique blend of funk, soul, and pop, the two songwriters created a timeless anthem that has been beloved for decades. Their legacy is one of collaboration and creativity, and their influence can still be felt in modern pop music.
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