"My Heart Is Calling" received mainly positive reviews from music critics, who commended Houston's soulful performance.

Chris Willman of Entertainment Weekly viewed the song as a "dance-floor" ballad,[4] while Elysa Gardner of Los Angeles Times noted that the song was influenced by both gospel music and funk genres.

[6] According to Bob Waliszewski of Plugged In (publication), "Houston exuberantly captures the joy of meeting a special someone" through the song.

"[6] Steve Jones of USA Today wrote that "[the] Babyface-produced My Heart Is Calling; [...] have a spiritual feel.

"[8] Similarly, Elysa Gardner of Los Angeles Times also reviewed the song favorably, writing that "Houston shows her soulful side with equal panache, even if she has a tendency to overdo the obligatory vocal gymnastics at times.

"[5] "My Heart Is Calling" debuted at number 81 on the US Billboard Hot 100, issue dated July 5, 1997.