About the song
“Where Do Broken Hearts Go” is a timeless ballad that has become an iconic part of Whitney Houston’s discography. Released in 1988 as the fourth single from her second studio album, Whitney, this song has stood the test of time, captivating audiences with its poignant lyrics and soaring vocals. Written by Frank Wildhorn and Chuck Jackson, and produced by Narada Michael Walden, “Where Do Broken Hearts Go” is a masterclass in emotional storytelling, as Houston pours her heart out in search of a former lover who has left her behind.
The song’s narrative is a universal one, speaking to the pain and longing that follows a breakup. Houston’s powerful vocals convey the desperation and vulnerability of the protagonist, as she pleads with her former lover to return to her. The song’s melody is equally impressive, with a sweeping orchestral arrangement that adds depth and texture to the emotional landscape.
Despite receiving mixed reviews from critics upon its initial release, “Where Do Broken Hearts Go” has gone on to become one of Houston’s most beloved and enduring songs. In fact, it played a significant role in cementing her status as a chart-topping artist, becoming her seventh consecutive number one single on the Billboard Hot 100 and setting a record that still stands today. The song’s success was not limited to its chart performance, as it also made Houston the first female artist to land four number one singles from a single album, a feat that has yet to be matched.
The song’s music video, directed by Peter Israelson, was also notable for its dramatic and emotional portrayal of Houston’s character, and its inclusion in Houston’s live performances became a staple of her shows. Over the years, “Where Do Broken Hearts Go” has been included in various medleys and setlists, with Houston often performing it in full on her tours. Today, the song remains a fan favorite and a testament to Houston’s enduring legacy as one of the greatest vocalists of all time.
Video
Lyrics
I know it’s been some time
But there’s something on my mind
You see, I haven’t been the same
Since that cold November day
We said we needed space
But all we found was an empty place
And the only things I learned
Is that I need you desperately
So here I am
And can you please tell me, oh
Where do broken hearts go?
Can they find their way home
Back to the open arms
Of a love that’s waiting there?
And if somebody loves you
Won’t they always love you?
I look in your eyes
And I know that you still care, for me (ooh, baby)
I’ve been around enough to know
That dreams don’t turn to gold
And that there is no easy way
No, you just can’t run away
And what we had was so much more
Than we ever had before
And no matter how I try
You’re always on my mind
So here I am
And can you please tell me, oh
Where do broken hearts go?
Can they find their way home
Back to the open arms
Of a love that’s waiting there?
And if somebody loves you
Won’t they always love you?
I look in your eyes
And I know that you still care for me
And now that I am here with you
I’ll never let you go
I look into your eyes
And now I know, now I know
Where do broken hearts go?
Can they find their way home
Back to the open arms
Of a love that’s waiting there?
And if somebody loves you
Won’t they always love you?
I look in your eyes
And I know that you still care
Where do broken hearts go?
Can they find their way home
Back to the open arms
Of a love that’s waiting there?
And if somebody loves you
Won’t they always love you?
I look in your eyes
And I know that you still care for me, for me
You still care for me