The song was released on February 22, 1985 as the album's lead single. The release of "You Give Good Love" was designed to give Houston a noticeable position and standing within the black music market first, which topped the US "Billboard" Hot Black Singles chart. However, it also made an unexpected crossover pop hit, peaking at number three on the "Billboard" Hot 100 chart, her first of what would be many Top 10 hits. It was later certified gold by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA). The single was released officially in some countries such as Australia, Canada, Japan, New Zealand and United Kingdom, but failed to make the top 40 in the countries except Canada, where it reached the top ten. The song won Favorite Soul/R&B Single at the 13th American Music Awards, and was nominated for Best R&B Song and Best R&B Vocal Performance, Female at the 28th Grammy Awards in 1986.