I Didn't Know My Own Strength

Album: I Look To You (2009)
Charted: 44
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Songfacts®:

  • Initially it was reported that this would be the lead single from Whitney's seventh studio album, I Look To You. However after most of the tracks were heard during some pre-release album listening parties, Houston's official website stated the title song would be the first US single and Million Dollar Bill, the international lead single.
  • During the 2000s, Houston experienced considerable personal and professional turmoil, including the breakdown of her marriage to Bobby Brown and media speculation about drug use. This song talks about how she survived her darkest hour and picked herself up.
  • The song was written by Grammy award winning songwriter Diane Warren and produced by David Foster.
  • Houston clarified the song's meaning during a televised conversation with Oprah Winfrey. "I know from whence my help cometh. And I know that it's strong within me," she said. "If ever I get low, I get weak, I know where I can turn to. I love the spirit of God so much."

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