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Even when Hilary Duff is at her most un-Lizzie McGuire-like, it's impossible not to like her, as she proves on this reinvention-themed, girl-grows-up album. Free her from the constraints of the teen-queen slumber party scene and she'll crank up the guitars and "Fly," as she does on the feel-good first single; give her a minute to reflect on life as a multi-hyphenate (in her case TV princess-movie star-pop goddess) and she'll come clean with "Underneath This Smile," an introspective winner not lacking--and yet not reaching--for sunshine, or "Who's That Girl," an unapologetic embrace of self-contradiction. Songwriters Diane Warren ("I Am") and Charlie Midnight, whose contributions to Duff's last album don't seem so yesterday as yet, pitch in, as does Hilary's star-in-her-own-right sister Haylie (the boyfriend-blasting "Mr. James Dean"). If there's evidence of the mixed-up lovable kook millions of teens once modeled themselves after here, it is only in the title: Hilary Duff may be the follow-up to the 5 million-selling Metamorphosis, but the real metamorphosis for Miss Duff takes place here. --Tammy La Gorce ... Read more

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For Our Children launched in 1990 and in many ways inspired the bounty of celebrity-philanthropy records for kids in its wake. From Bob Dylan and Sting to Barbra Streisand, Paul McCartney, and Elton John, the roster on this cornucopia of great kid songs--and even greater interpretations--has donated all proceeds to the Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation. Although tilted toward baby-boomer parents, the tracks have a timeless, ageless appeal. You'll be hard-pressed to find another five-star children's recording this satisfying, including the follow-up effort, For Our Children, Too. Little Richard rocks "Itsy Bitsy Spider," McCartney turns his sweet, melodic gifts toward "Mary Had a Little Lamb," and Bruce Springsteen makes a lively stew of "Chicken Lips and Lizard Hips." Other noteworthy moments include Jackson Browne and Jennifer Warnes doing the Beatles' "Golden Slumbers" and Carole King reprising the Disney Dumbo love theme, "Child of Mine." But surely the crowning touch is Dylan's unforgettable version of "This Old Man," phrased and delivered as only Dylan can with his mercurial invention and powerful character. This belongs in your children's collection. --Martin Keller ... Read more

Reviews (38)

A perfect children's cd
I always tuck this cd in the bag as part of a baby shower gift. I loved rocking my babies to these tracks in the middle of the night and can't believe it's been ten years that I've owned it but still love to listen and smile thinking about their nursery years. There are a number of different charity pop compilations that were released after but none can compare to this original. All of them have just enough stylized arrangements to make them as endearing to adults who know these artists as to kids.

If you need another reason to convince you to buy it - the profits go to the Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation.

My favorite tracks are:
"Gartan Mother's Lullaby" - Meryl Streep; "Child of Mine" - Carole King; "Child Is Born" - Barbra Streisand; and "Tell Me Why" - Pat Benatar - soft sweet soothing songs. Got my kids to sleep every time.
"Getting to Know You" - James Taylor - perfect song for his style. I remember this song being sung to me!

"Itsy Bitsy Spider" - Little Richard; "Blueberry Pie" - Bette Midler; and "Chicken Lips and Lizard Hips" - Bruce Springsteen - hilariously adorable.
"Golden Slumbers" - Jackson Browne - just a great song well done.
"This Old Man" - Bob Dylan - is so cute, so Bob Dylan - you'll have to hum along.

The Gartan Mother's Lullaby
I am both surprised and disappointed that nobody has mentioned the Gartan Mother's Lullaby. What is the Gartan Mother's Lullaby? Why, it's an absolutely lovely Donegal traditional lullaby. However, the most beautiful version I ever heard of it was sung-- surprise surprise, by Merryl Streep. Who knew she could sing? It's an absolutely beautiful rendition, perhaps the most beautiful you'll ever heard of this song. Magical.

The liner notes don't explain much about the song, so here it goes:

Sleep O babe, for the red bee hums the silent twilight's fall,
Aoibheall from the grey rock comes, to wrap the world in thrall.
A leanbhan O, my child, my joy, my love my heart's desire,
The crickets sing you lullaby, beside the dying fire.

Dusk is drawn and the Green Man's thorn is wreathed in rings of fog,
Siabhra sails his boat till morn, upon the Starry Bog.
A leanbhan O, the paly moon hath brimmed her cusp in dew,
And weeps to hear the sad sleep-tune, I sing O love to you.

Aoibheall - (EE-val) Meaning: the name of the queen of the northern fairies
leanbhan - (LYAN-uh-van) Meaning: little child, baby
Tearmann - (CHAR-uh-muhn) Meaning: tearmann = sanctuary, refuge, or church land, name of village near Lough Gartan
Siabra - (SHEE-vra) a prankster class of trooping fairies, also spelled Shefro or Siofra.

This song alone is worth the entire Album. But "Autumn To May" is also a beautiful rendition.

This CD is just the BEST!
Like so many other reviewers, I had this CD 20 years ago. I was a nanny at the time, and shared this music with so many different children and without exception, they all LOVED it! As fate would have it, the CD was lost, and I was devastated. When I saw that it was available again, I was beyond thirlled and ordered it immediately! This CD is an excellent way to fight childhood obesity - my own children (ages 5 and 6-1/2) just cannot sit still when they hear this music - they dance and sing throughout!

Awesome comeback with this album!
I bought this for my daughter in 1991 when she was a baby... She is now 13 yrs old. She new all the songs by heart by the time she was 1 1/2. My mom's favorite is Itsy Bitsy Spider. Unfortunately it was lost in a move and like many folks, who looked for it for years,I found it no longer in print. I had my 2nd child 5 yrs ago and by the time I tried to find a used one out in cyberspace I found, to my surprise, it was in print again(YAY!). Now my son enjoys this and still, so does my daughter. I am so glad they brought this back onto the market!!

In Harmony is better
I got this CD for my grandson. I was disappointed when I heard it. It was nice but surprisingly bland. In Harmony, while older, is a much better children's "album." ... Read more

Reviews (1310)

Pretty good album...awesome album cover!
Vocally, I think she has matured since her first album. It's less "poppy" than her last album. But considering the current "pop" market, I think everyone is trying sound less poppy and a little more "hip hop" (like Britney and Justin collaborated with rappers). This album contains a good balance between up-tempo songs and ballads.

I especially like track 18 "The Voice Within" - it's powerful, it showcases her voice, and most importantly, she didn't "overdo" it with all those improvised "yeah yeah...ahh ahh" stuff. I was disappointed with track 2 "Can't Hold Us Down". This track features Lil' Kim but I think the song is missing a catchy melody or riff or something. It was a waste to use Lil' Kim in this track, especially after "Lady Marmalade" became such a hit - Lil' Kim and Christina are indeed a cool duo. Unfortunately the song didn't do them justice. Track 9 "Impossible" was a collaboration with Alicia Keys. It was a signature Alicia Keys song - in a minor key, with piano/drums/bass and heavy backup vocals - And tell you the truth, I rather hear Alicia singing this track. I think Christina overdid it just a little too much.

There are tracks on this album where I think Christina is exploring and experimenting with different sounds...Take for instance Track 12 "Make Over" reminds me a little of Pink's new sound, leaning a little toward alternative rock. More jazzy sounding tracks include Track 10 "Underappreciated" and Track 15 "Get Mine, Get Yours"...the arrangement are different from a "typical" R&B track.

"Dirrty" is a good one to party to...it's my favorite on the album. I don't know about the video...but then again the track is named "Dirrty"...so I guess the video was appropriate.

Her image - is she just trying to be a bad girl, or do you think this is indeed the real Christina? Who knows?

Overall it's a pretty good album. I would only recommend it if you're a Christina fan.

wonderful lyrics, powerful voice, christina made it again
Dont esitate, buy that album. Stripped is one of the greatests albums of the year. You'll see the new Christina, the real way she is. Amazing lyrics (Co-writed by Christina), powerful voice, and realy nice beats, what should we ask better?? Listen, I like ALL of the 21 tracks on the cd. It is a great album.

1- Stripped (intro) - 7/10 - nice intro
2- Cant hold us down - 8/10 - good beat, great for dance
3- Walk Away - 10/10 - my fav REMARQUABLE lyrics/interpretation!
4- Fighter - 9/10 - realy good rock song, powerful
5- primer amor interlude - 4/10 well its an interlude right..lol
6- infatuation - 9/10 - realy good song, latino, i love it!!
7- loves embrace interlude - 5/10 relaxing interlude..
8- loving me 4 me - 7/10 - slow, but good piece to
9- impossible - 9/10 - great!! beautiful interpretation, r&b
10- underapreciated - 6/10 - okay
11- beautiful - 10/10 - what a great voice !! nice lyrics, good!
12- make over - 6/10 not bad.. sounds rock but weird
13- cruz - 8/10 - i love it !! good interpretation, accapela!!
14- soar - 10/10 - realy good, I cant describe it
15- get mine get yours - 9/10 -WOW! give a listen powerful voice
16- dirty - 8/10 - nice song, great beat to dance, good
17- stripped pt2 - 6/10 - good
18- the voice within - 8/10 - great voice, lyrics, everithing
19- im okay - 9/10 - realy emmotionnal, too good lyrics
20- keep on signing my song - 7/10 great
21- i will be - 8/10 good end to a great album

buy this album, youll be satisfied, thats for sure!!! I love christinas voice, powerful, emotional, just go get this cd!!!! 910 !!!!!

Greatest cd's ever
This is one of the best cd's I have ever heard and by far her best cd.....If you get one cd this you this must be the one

Beautiful and empowering
It took her a while but she came back in full force. All the tracks are great and they show that she really grew up. Through her songs, you understand that she grew into a woman who's comfortable in her skin, sexuality, and just her place in the world. You hear her tears in "I'm Okay", singing about her abusive father and you feel her love for herself in "Beautiful" a song that encourages self love and determination in believing in all that you are. Every woman should own this album. You won't be wasting your time. She kicks Britney's ass with this.

THE ULTIMATE!!
Girlfriend is all over this CD. She is bringing the house down BIG TIME. Miss Christina, you are such a role model, and I love everything you do. Just run and get this album now!!!!!!!!!!!!! ... Read more

Reviews (44)

Drowning In A Glass, Can't Find Love At All
Let's be honest we're not buying this CD for the hits, we're buying it for the new material. "That's The Way"--Giorgio and Keith hit the nail right on the head. This has radio hit written all over it. Donna's vocals shine in this very slick, well produced production. Very breathy and playful. She hasn't used her voice in this way for years, and it's a very welcome change. This is the new sound of Summer and I like it! "I Will Live For Love"--Donna's previous co-writes with Nathan DiGesare haven't impressed me at all, but this song is a complete twist. Written for Donna's children's musical "Dreamway Express", the lyrics and the vocals scream classic Broadway. Giorgio lifts this fairy tale from standard theater fare, by wraping the production in enticing effervescent dance beat. "You're So Beautiful"-- Loved it. Although I would love even more to hear a version that features Donna's vocals more prominently. This at least proves that Donna was on the right musical track when she was at Sony. All and all, these new recordings show a Diva awaiting (and deserving) a rebirth. Will it happen? I can only pray. Mykol (I Wanna Love You Baby Like You Know I'm Donna Summer)

The Long, Long Journey
Well, to begin, I must say that I am a biased Donna Summer fan, and have been for the better part of 25 years. That is why I am hard-pressed to give this CD only 4 stars instead of 5. But, there are two major flaws in this release. The first is that one of the new tracks ("Dream-A-Lots Theme...I Will Live For Love"), is a Mouseketeer anthem, very much in the same vein that "Someday" was for the Mouse House CD back in '96. It is very cookie-cutter, dance fodder in it's original version. In my opinion, this is something that Donna should steer away from at least from a production aspect. The second flaw (though hair-splitting it may seem), is that this summer's best dance floor anthem, "You're So Beautiful" was left off the CD's cover credits. Having gotten that out of the way, these remastered classics are as clear as a bell! And the collection, though I personally find some of her greatest songs missing, is a SUPER BUY for the casual Donna fan.

Now, onto the really great news about this CD. The remix of "I Will Live For Love" is a fantastic dance tune that should have everyone hitting the dance floor over and over at least through the Christmas holidays. But, the show-stopper is the cool and breezy "That's The Way". Her throaty and teasingly optimistic vocals just make me shiver with anticipation to replay the song (and to hear an entire CD with Giorgio Moroder).

So Donna, I can't give you 5 stars this outing, but hopefully 4 will do for you and the rest of the listening world...

A Great Donna Summer Collection
The Journey is a superb greatest hits collections for new Donna fans as well as old. All of the top hits are on it along with some new songs and a second CD of extended play singles.

A must have for any Donna fan and a great CD for new Donna fans.
Her music is timeless as evidenced by her staying power.

Highly recommended!!

hirickybear
What can any one say about one of the greatest female singers of our time...DONNA SUMMER is truely in a class all by herself...and this latest trubute to her is lacking POWER HOUSE songs Like..."Once Upon a Time," "Fairy Tale High," " I Remember Yester Day," "Rummor Has It," "Summer Fever," "Autum Changes," "Dim all the Lights," "Sunset People," "Walk Away". These are the songs that Made Donna Summer truly a legend within her life time.

Great Collection. Excellent Price!!
This CDs are a steal at $12. I paid $18 when it first came out and it was well worth it.
Most people are complaining that there are only 3 new songs. In this day and age, this is Donna's easiest way to get some new music out there. Plus this CD was also meant to go with her autobiography so it makes sense that it would be a Greatest Hits.
The three new songs are amazing. I also had the privilege of hearing Donna sing almost every song on this CD(include the three new ones) at a rare concert in Orlando this year and it's incredible how she sounds better than ever.

The remixes are great and they are a great way to play some Donna Summer music at a party. ... Read more

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Manchester's pivotal post-punk quartet offer a 16-track opus that skips obscurities and early material in favor of their greatest singles. Highlights include "Blue Monday," "Thieves Like Us" and "The Perfect Kiss" and sparkling Stephen Hague remixes of "True Faith" and "Bizarre Love Triangle." --Jeff Bateman ... Read more

Reviews (47)

The Best of New Order? Not Exactly.
Putting together a single disc anthology of the best of New Order would be a difficult undertaking in any circumstances. The band had no easily identifiable hits, and many of their most popular songs were dance mixes (like "Bizare Love Triange") radically different from the original versions that appeared on the original albums.

Having said all of that, "The Best of New Order" is still a strangely programmed attempt. One of their most popular dance tracks, "Blue Monday" is not even included. Also left out are other first rate songs like "Love Vigilantes" and "All Day Long." And yet, strangely, the CD contains three tracks from their last and weakest CD (before their recent reunion) "Republic." Other oddities are included, like an updated version of the rare track "1963" from the B-sides disc of "Substance" and the previous non-CD released "Touched by the Hand of God," which is not one of their better songs.

Overall, this best of collection shows only intermittantly what made New Order the best-ever synthesizer rock band. Ardent fans may want it to fill in some missing gaps. But casual fans will be disserved by it. They should go with the far superior anthology "Substance" instead.

Goodish
Although a decent enough 'best of', this is patchy in comparison to the minimalist simplicity of 'Substance 1987'. Instead of simply compiling all the singles and b-sides from 1987 onwards (a process which would, admittedly, have resulted in a fairly short album), this is an odd overview of their career from 'Power, Corruption and Lies' onwards. It's nice to have 'World in Motion' on CD, and although fans might moan at the inclusion of remixed versions of 'True Faith', '1963' and 'Bizarre Love Triangle' the songs don't really suffer for it. On the other hand, it's criminal that either of the versions of 'Confusion' aren't on the CD, and quite why the excellent early singles 'Everything's Gone Green' or 'Temptation' have been omitted is a mystery. The ultra-obscure 'Murder' would have been nice to have, too. That said, it seems as if this compilation was intended as a way of introducing the group to non-fans, and as such it works very well - the songs from 'Technique' and 'Republic' haven't dated much, and sound fresh today. Furthermore, it must have been a way for London records to justify buying the group, as, after extricating them from the corpse of Factory records and releasing 'Republic', they promptly went on haitus.

The UK version has a slightly different track listing, omitting the first four songs from this US pressing. There's a companion-piece, 'The Rest of', which is fairly bad, and contains lots of undistinguished modern remixes of their old songs, most of which sound like totally new tracks.

the rest of..
this album doesn't even remotely do this band justice. The renditions of the songs they have selected are often weaker(i.e perfect kiss,blue monday,bizarre love triangle), because these are the radio versions, but no one is a buying the cd because they want the radio dammit, they want the best of new order. bottom line: great band, but this disc is waste of time. check out substance instead and wait patiently until someone actually compiles a real best of collection. Also note this album completely neglect power corruption, and lies, my favourite new order album and the turning point in their career.

Misleading Title
Fusing rock with dance, New Order has, for almost a quarter of a century, been producing music that has been a hit with the public, critics, and peers. New Order started out as Joy Division, part of that explosion in the United Kingdom in the late '70s early '80s that gave birth to experimental synthesizer-based acts like Gary Numan, The Human League, Orchestral Manoeuvres In the Dark, Depeche Mode, and Yaz.

New Order's Peter Hook's melodic bass and Bernard Sumner's unemotional singing--copied by the Pet Shop Boys' Neil Tennant?--and subtle lyrics help set this group apart from other artists. Their albums, for the most part, are stark in design, provide no pictures of the band members, and do not even mention their names. In the early part of their career, they rarely gave interviews--they preferred to let their music do the talking--gave short sets during their live performances--about an hour--and no encores. No wonder a mystique built up.

New Order can rock with the best as "Run 2" demonstrates; this is danceable, but you will get a better idea of the dance gods they have become with "Touched by the Hand of God" and "Blue Monday--88"--a shorter and different version of "Blue Monday" that is the biggest selling twelve-inch ever; these are three of New Order's best songs, but it is debatable whether the rest of the material on this album is among their best.

"World in Motion" is not in any of their studio albums, so it is a welcome addition here. "True Faith--94," "Bizarre Love Triangle--94," "1963--94," and "Round & Round--94" are pleasant but no huge improvement over the versions that appear in their studio albums and _Substance_. Similarly, "Fine Time," "The Perfect Kiss," and "Shell Shock" are shorter versions. "Regret," "Vanishing Point," and "World (Price of Love)" are, like the previously mentioned, all good songs, but, again, it is debatable whether they are New Order's best.

What happened to songs like "Dreams Never End," "Your Silent Face," "Love Vigilantes," the album version of "Sub-Culture," "Temptation," and "All the Way"? Other songs that should have been included would be a selection from "Age of Consent," "The Village," "586," "Ceremony," "Everything's Gone Green," "In a Lonely Place," "Mesh," "Hurt," and "Confused Instrumental." The early version of "586" on _The John Peel Sessions_ is also outstanding. If you have nothing by New Order, this is an excellent recording to get you familiar with the band's sound. Just do not think that you are getting anything close to their best.

If you like this recording, you should also buy their double-CD set, _Substance_. After that, buy, in this order, their albums, _Technique_, _Low-Life_, _Power, Corruption & Lies_, _Get Ready_, _Brotherhood_, and _The John Peel Sessions_. If you enjoy _Peel_, you may also want to buy Joy Division's _Closer_. Joy Division has a much different sound--darker and less melodic, less poppy, and less danceable.

Great Collection
When I bought this CD I was only familir with some of the New Order singles so I love this album mainly because this is where I heard the rest of the singles. For that fact I recommend this album but I'm not sure how the tracks compare to the album cuts since I'm not as familiar with their albums so I can't say if this is just a collection of the album versions of songs. Great collection though, highly recommended if you're new to this group. ... Read more

Reviews (29)

disco's best cd
this cd is a genius mix of great disco songs. its hard not to like it. to understand why, just look at whats on it: celebration by kool & the gang (classic), funkytown by lipps inc, dancing queen by abba, ymca by the village people, and many more. i mean, who doesnt know YMCA? also on this cd are less popular songs, such as knock on wood and hot stuff, but they were still popular and you will most likely know them as soon as you listen to the cd. at the end is the awesome grease megamix that anyone who likes the movie grease will know all the words to. on the megamix are grease lightning, you better shape up, you're the one that i want, and summer nights. this cd is great for parties along with personal listening because once you turn it on, everyone will want to get up and dance. Pure disco is the best disco mix around.

Disco is making a come back.
Well maybe Disco isn't really coming back, but at least this compilation sounds better than ever. Plus, when thinking about it, when did it ever actually end? There's not much that really separates the music of twenty-five to thirty years ago with today. Disco was the generic term for dance music of the 70s and maybe 1980 and 81 up until MTV came into the scene. Today dance music still is around, even if several of these artists are not. But it is fun hearing the roots of clubbing and rave. Look at what you will get with this CD:Funkytown by Lipps Inc., which featured members of the Prince's Revolution Band famous for his Purple Rain disc, Abba's Dancing Queen which inspired a Broadway play Mamma Mia, Celebration by funk-disco band Kool and the Gang, a classic. I Will Survive by Gloria Gaynor which is one of the most covered tunes and a top dance song of all time. The Gap Band is here and they are an eighties favorite. Marvin Gaye, Diana Ross, and Barry White are legends and they're here. My favorite song is Amii Stewart's Knock on Wood from this collection. Plus among other's the famous mix of Grease tunes from the movie not found elsewhere. Give it a try and buy the other two as well. I am sure you will dance all night.

Great collection of Classic Disco
Yea, we all love to dance- but this collection of music
are classics and they always get people young and old up to
dance. Disco is NOT dead!

What a great series!
Let me first go on record saying that my favorite artists of all time (at this point) are Jimi Hendrix, Bob Marley, Bob Dylan and Bruce Springsteen. In that vein, you wouldn't really expect a guy with a taste for that sort of music to dig disco. But I really do. Disco music defines "good times." If you've ever been to any sort of party in your life (hosted by a professional DJ, that is), the odds are you've heard a number of the songs on this compilation. And they're all great.

Some are better than others, of course, but each song is catchy and the bass lines are funky. Not to mention cheesy. If you're looking for a cool collection of disco music and don't want to splurge the cash for expensive box sets or individual artists' albums, the "Pure Disco" series is a great investment. Throw in the "Saturday Night Fever" soundtrack and you've got enough great disco songs to blister your feet up.

Why only four stars instead of five? That's easy. Barry White's "the First, the Last, My Everything" isn't the REAL version. Polygram omitted the spoken introduction and the phrasing is just a bit different from the original version. Must be some sort of radio edit.

Despite this, great compilation. Two other recommendations: "the Bee Gee's Greatest Hits: the Record" and "Barry White: the Ultimate Collection."

PURE DISCO / VOL . 1, 2 & 3
This is the best disco set available!!! Although,disco music
was short lived,it was an era that no one will forget.To some it
was a fashion statement.To others,a threat of,the downfall of
rock & roll music,as we knew it.No matter how you felt about it you must agree that some of best feel good music came from that
generation.I also feel that the word: "CHEESY" came from this time period.I,myself,liked it because I could sleep in my clothes
without the fear of wrinkling them... ... Read more

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Bathroom escapades aside, there's no denying that George Michael has been responsible for some of the biggest party jams of the '80s and '90s. Have you ever noticed what happens to a room when "Faith" erupts from the speakers? Aside from the funk-fueled "Fastlove," the material from his most recent album, Older, is well and truly overshadowed here by the megahits from days gone by. The first disc starts off slow, with "Careless Whisper" and his remake of "I Can't Make You Love Me" the only real high points among otherwise bland ballads. It's disc 2 that exudes the essence of Michael, with "Fastlove," "Too Funky," and "Freedom 90" providing a nonstop dance-athon, and "I Want Your Sex" and "Faith" picking up the slack. The package also includes his rather unexciting (but hugely popular) duets with Queen and Elton John, his perfect pop pairing with Aretha Franklin, and two new tracks. Set aside some serious time for this one, folks. The hits don't stop. --Rebecca Wallwork ... Read more

Reviews (194)

Awesome 2 CD Collection of Hits and New Songs
'Ladies and Gentlemen: The Best of George Michael' is an awesome 2 CD collection of hits and new songs. The 1st CD - FOR THE HEART - is dedicated to his late mother Lesley. George Michael reveals his soul with honest lyrics of love, relationships, hope and despair. Among the tracks are a new song, 'A Moment With You' and the lush 'Desafinado' with Astrud Gilberto, taken from the aids awareness charity CD 'RED HOT AND RIO.' The 2nd CD - FOR THE FEET - is a collection of up tempo and dance tracks. (Gotta Get Up to Get Down!) Unfortunately, only the international version features the fantastic cover of the Stevie Wonder song 'As' with Mary J. Blige. (I purchased the import.) Each CD has it's own lyric and photo book filled with 26 wonderful photographs spanning George Michael's career. Like his influences, Elton John, Stevie Wonder and Queen, Michael truly has the gift of writing lyrics and delivering vocals that evoke incredible emotion from the listener. This compilation is a must-have for George Michael fans and lovers of music alike.

Stunning collection showcases an amazing talent
Recipe for a must-have CD: Start off with classic pop hits like "Careless Whisper," "Faith," "Father Figure," and "Freedom 90." Add a handful of great material that SHOULD have been hits, like "Hard Day," "Heal the Pain," "Waiting for That Day" and "Spinning the Wheel." Add a couple of tasty remixes for "Monkey" and "Star People." Sprinkle a dash of rarely-heard treats like "Desafinado" with Astrud Gilberto and a fine rendition of the otherwise overdone "I Can't Make You Love Me." Toss in a flawless pair of new tunes in the form of the sultry ballad "A Moment With You" and the disco-happy "Outside." Throw it all together with gorgeous pictures, give it a pricetag under $20, and Presto! The perfect Christmas gift for fans of soulful pop, not to mention the perfect impulse buy for yourself. Pop either entertaining disc into your CD player and listen to it cook for over an hour. It confirms that George Michael is one of the most talented and endearing pop performers of our times. WARNING: Discs will inspire multiple listenings.

OK CD
Sorry after the first 4 songs the album is a waste of money. All the rest are just boring copies of each other.

Pure Genius
If you are a fan...you must have this collection. He is a true talent on just about any genre his vocals touch.

His best, and then some.
When it comes to pop, "George Michael" is one of my favorites, and even though these 2 discs are great, I think 1 disc would have been excellent. I mean, up to this point, he did have only 3 albums out. It could have been a flawless 18 track disc. Anyway, more is better right. Disc 1 has the ballads like "Jesus To A Child", "Careless Whisper", "Father Figure", and "Praying For Time". Disc 2 has the upbeat tracks "Too Funky", "Freedom 90", "Monkey", and "Outside". Plus there's numerous covers and duets, and all pretty good. My only complaints, there's no "Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go", and the version of "I Want Your Sex" isn't the single version. Otherwise, this should be all the "George" the casual fan could want. ... Read more

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Given a five-decade career that's been one long series of critical write-offs and subsequent comeback triumphs, it's tempting to argue that the natural elements are actually earth, wind, fire, water--and Cher. Anchored by her 1998 international mega-success "Believe" (the song that made Cher the oldest woman to score a chart topper) and its equally club-savvy contemporary collaborations with producers Mark Taylor and Brian Rawlings, "Song for the Lonely" and "A Different Kind of Love Song," this 21-track anthology is indeed the first to contain all her No. 1 hits, stretching back to her epochal 1965 duet with Sonny Bono on the faux-Dylan "I Got You Babe." And if it shortchanges her Phil Spector-rooted origins and a true perspective on her '60s and '70s career (though kitsch classic chart toppers "Dark Lady," "Half-Breed," and "Gypsies, Tramps and Thieves" are all here) to focus on her string of '80s and '90s pop successes in service of writers like Diane Warren ("If I Could Turn Back Time") and Desmond Child ("Just Like Jesse James"), it's good to remember that, according to the pop soothsayers, none of them were even supposed to happen, let alone make her an icon for a whole new generation. It's a tribute to sheer, fashion-defying willpower--and as unlikely an argument for the notion of "the singer, not the song" as one is likely to find. --Jerry McCulley ... Read more

Reviews (147)

Cher and Cher Alike.
I realize that confessing a love for Cher is credibility suicide in many circles, but I couldn't resist reviewing her latest greatest hits CD, which has been selling rather well. Whether you like Cher or not, you have to admit that her ability to endure five decades is hardly a result of mere blind luck. As we all know, the media and public can be ruthless to divas who are past their sell-by date, but Cher has been able to outlive them all. You can credit that to tenacity, a strong will, and the ability to market yourself as shrewdly as Madonna. On "The Very Best of Cher," we witness the singer formerly known as Ms. LaPierre embrace the good, the bad, and the tacky in pop music. There are the predictable songs from her days with Sonny Bono ("I Got You, Babe"), her remarkably solid solo work from the 1970s ("Half Breed" and "Gypsies, Tramps, and Thieves"), her affair with adult contemporary pop rock schlock ("If I Could Turn Back Time," "I Found Someone"), and glittery neo disco ("Believe," her biggest single to date). At 21 tracks, the collection captures all eras of her career impressively, but it does have flaws. It omits "We All Sleep Alone," and Rodney Jerkins' remix of "Different Kind of Love Song" is inferior to the original album version. But "The Very Best of Cher" gets bonus points from me for including the fantastic discocentric "All Or Nothing," an underrated and overlooked flop single that's just as good as "Believe." Cher is hardly a critics darling, and many will turn their nose and laugh contemptuously. Who cares? "The Very Best of Cher" makes for a qualified guilty pleasure from one of the most resilient female entertainers around.

Cher's Most Accurate Overview...as of 2003
Cher has had quite a winding career over the past 40 years, as her songs have touched various genres like folk, girl group, soft rock, disco, arena rock, adult contemporary, and house. She has also had the fortune of producing hits in each of these genres, so a career like hers should result in a rich, sprawling greatest hits compilation. Unfortunately, over that same period of time, she has worked with three different major labels, and thus her collections have generally resulted as incomplete introspectives.

And, all things considered, the 2003 issue THE VERY BEST OF CHER follows that trend, but it's actually Cher's most complete collection to date. The reason for that it contains more of her big hits than any prior collection from the infamous "I Got You Babe" with Sonny Bono in 1965 to the insistent "Believe" in 1999, while taking in other essential tracks like "All I Really Want to Do"; "The Beat Goes On"; "Bang Bang (My Baby Shot Me Down)"; "Gypsys, Tramps, and Thieves"; "Half-Breed"; "Dark Lady"; "Take Me Home"; "I Found Someone"; "After All"; "If I Could Turn Back Time"; and "The Shoop Shoop Song."

But the biggest problems with this collection do not really consider that some big songs are still missing. First off, there are too many tracks from BELIEVE and LIVING PROOF; "Believe" was the only top 40 hit Cher had in those two albums, and the rest of the material was pretty generic. The sequencing of this collection also does not work very well (even if it does roughly work from the present to the beginning) largely because those particular tracks from the last two albums, plus the new mix of "A Different Kind of Love Song," slow down the collection's pace considerably. It is because of these flaws that the collection only emphasizes what's missing: "You Better Sit Down Kids"; "Where Do You Go"; "Alfie"; "Living in a House Divided"; "The Way of Love"; "All I Ever Need Is You"; "A Cowboy's Work Is Never Done"; "Train of Thought"; "We All Sleep Alone"; and "Love and Understanding" could have been possible candidates.

But yet, if you're trying to look for that one definitive Cher collection, THE VERY BEST OF CHER is the closest record to that title. And even if the overall listen is a little tiring because of the unnecessary tracks, it is still nice to have a concise collection that gives consideration to all of the styles Cher has achieved fame with over the years.

despise it
please get rid of this cd and this old woman who should call it a day.it is a shame to call this package of 21 terrible songs as best of collection as to me it sounds more like lousy hits.trash this immediately.avoid.

really awful
i would request that this is one album which you should avoid at all costs.this awful cd is bad beyond description and i really wonder when this old woman will call it a day and stop harrasing us.she only became famous because of her short lived association with the great greg allman.avoid.rating 1/2 out of 10.get rust in peace from megadeth instead.

This album would convert anyone...
1. Believe: awesome dance song 5 stars
2. If I could turn back time: ditto
3. Heart of Stone: nice, 4 stars
4. Just like jesse james: the best rock song of all time 5 stars
5. Save up all your tears, catchy, 4 stars
6. After All: ok one of the greatest love songs/duets of all time, instantly likeable, will make you cry, 5 stars
7. I found someone: i actually love the verses more than the chorus, 5 stars
8. one by one, um i don't know about this one, not modern ear friendly, 3 stars
9. stong enough, great dance song again, 5 stars
10. all or nothing, ditto
11. song for the lonely, ditto
12. take me home, not my fav, 2 stars
13. it's in his kiss: classic 4 stars
14. all i really want to do, not my fav again, 1 star
15. bang bang, much better live, 1 star
16. Half-breed: so original, tribal but pop sound at same time, 5 stars
17. gypsies, tramps and thieves - i love this one, 5 stars
18. dark lady - i like these creepy mystical songs, we need more of them, very catchy, 5 stars
19 and 20, classics
21. a different kind of love song - this remix is great for this song, 4 stars ... Read more

Reviews (7)

OK, so it's a bit eclectic...
I think that was the whole idea behind this collection. Country, folk, stadium rock, R & B, pop, Motown, funk, disco, and a little jazz; it's all there. Sure you could argue that some really great songs from the 70's have not been included, but this is a compilation of Sony owned music; some of these records I remember as being on ABC Records and Epic. I grew up in the 70's and I would recommend this collection just for the cheap trip down memory lane!

Great compilation CD!
This CD series has a bunch of really great songs from the 70's - early to late. It is a winner for the value ratio too! Check it out and you'll love what you hear.

This is a slack compilation
I think the seventies have many more representative hits than the offered in this compilation. A good compilation needs at least 10 cd's to bring together the highlights of "golden era of music production" This is not a good stuff to buy. I recomend AM Gold Collection, Superhits of the 70's (have a nice day) - rated by myself as the best - , a year of your life, and others.

Garden Variety Compilation
The sound is good, and that earns my three stars. What some call eclectic, I call incoherent. There's no theme. It's a random post-mortem of 70s pop that includes one of the most hated tunes of that era: "Arizona", by Mark Lindsey. Where's the masterpieces? There are none. The 70s deserves much better recognition than is offered here. This is not testimony, it's nearly slander.

Must Have Multi-Set
so many Great songs here.this really captures the 70's&it's full range of styles&Artists that represented the time period.this was the Era of Songwriters&story-telling.I have all of these songs be it on the Artists Albums or on other sets this 3 Disc Set is a Must have. ... Read more

Amazon.com

It's fair to assume that if you're a Seal fan, you prefer your pop shot through with substance. Using that as a guiding principle, you'll want to glide right into Best: 1991-2004 where you will encounter, throughout two discs and 27 songs, scarcely a second of musical fluff. All the expected goosebump-raisers come on disc one--"Don't Cry" follows "Prayer for the Dying" follows "Kiss from a Rose" follows "Crazy"--and they're interspersed with deeper cuts from Seal IV such as "Get It Together" and "Loves Divine" as well as a couple of covers that, in a lesser vocalist's hands, might have been catastrophic. Seal plays it subtle and sweet and Burt Bacharach's "Walk on By," sidestepping any instinct to belt, and the help he gets from Mikey Dread on Echo & the Bunnymen's "Lips Like Sugar" settles the song into a snazzified reggae-pop celebration. (Also included is Seal's soaring cover of Steve Miller's "Fly Like an Eagle," which proved his prowess as a cover artist with its chart success). Though "best" collections aren't normally upheld for their surprise elements--nobody likes a package that challenges with armloads of new stuff--disc two pulls off a neat stunt. It's a complete acoustic album, again encompassing the major radio hits but stretching to include tracks like the impossibly tender "Touch" and the meltingly gorgeous "Colour." Their unplugged presentation, with the artist on guitar, sets an up-close-and-personal tone that suits Seal. More to the point, it suits his fans, who'll take all the intimacy with the singer-slash-heartthrob they can get. --Tammy La Gorce ... Read more

Reviews (24)

The Best of the Series
This is the best of the "Pure Disco" series. It contains all the best songs. It kicks off with a decent remix of Gloria Gaynor's disco standard "I Will Survive" and the album takes off after that. My favorite track would probably be "Turn the Beat Around," an explosive purscussion-based track. You also get "What A Feeling" from the movie Flashdance which was which hit long after disco's hey-day and "Rock the Boat" which was is considered by some the first disco song. Abba are included with "Gimme Gimme Gimme" which was not one of their bigger songs, but a great disco track anyways and the Weather Girls are a great addition with "It's Raining Men." This is an awesome CD for a party. It'll be sure to have everyone up and dancing to these great disco classics!

Wow! A Fun Disco Compilation!
Who knew a disco compilation could be so fun? This is actually one of the best (And funnest) CDs I have ever listened to. The album starts out with the fantastic I Will Survive Remix, which is followed by the classic Shake Your Booty by KC & The Sunshine Band. Vicki Sue Robinson's song Turn The Beat Around combines catchy hooks and great vocals to make one of the biggest dance anthems ever. Then the CD gets corny for just a little bit to include Macho Man and We Are Family. Irene Cara was a huge star after the songs from Fame and Flashdance, and she shows she has some killer vocals on the uplifting Flashdance (What A Feeling). The next few songs are sort of medium until you hit Rock The Boat by The Hues Corporation, which was recently featured on a Pepsi commercial. Then comes Love Rollercoaster, which was definately one of Disco's biggest hits. The rest of the highlights are Abba's haunting and catchy Gimmie! Gimmie! Gimmie! (A Man After Midnight), Anita Ward's unique vocals on Ring My Bell, the two classic hits Last Dance by Donna Summer and It's Raining Men by the Weather Girls, and then finally the Diva Megamix. If you are a fan of disco, or are just looking for a fun party CD, this is definately the one for you!

The best of the Pure Disco series.
This is a great compilation album! It starts off with a remix of "I Will Survive" by Gloria Gaynor. I prefer the original, found on Pure Disco #1. The second track is the KC and the Sunshine Band Hit, "Shake Your Booty", which I doubt anyone doesn't know at least one line of. Then is one of my favorite disco songs, Vicki Sue Robinson's "Turn the Beat Around". It is a song with so much going on you almost get lost! After that is "Macho Man" by the Village People, which is definitely not one of my favorites, but some people like it. Next is Sister Sledge's "We Are Family", which is just a bit repetitious. After that is the famous "What a Feeling" by Irene Cara. It may not technically be disco, but it's a nice inclusion. Next is Andy Gibb's "I Just Want to Be Your Everything", which I like the beat and melody, but not Andy Gibb's vocals. After that is "Everlasting Love" by Carl Carlton, a quite unappreciated song. Then you'll hear "Can't Get Enough of Your Love", a Barry White song I'm not too fond of. After that is The Hues Corporation's "Rock the Boat", which annoys me for some crazy reason. Then you'll get "Love Rollercoaster" by the Ohio players, the most annoying disco song of all time. The only songs after that worth mentioning are "Upside Down", a fun song by the Motown/Disco legend Diana Ross. "Gimme Gimme Gimme", one of my favorite ABBA songs, "It's Raining Men", a song with about 3 other versions floating around, and "Last Dance", the most energetic disco song I've heard. The best songs on here are "Last Dance", "Turn the Beat Around", and "What a Feeling". I reccomend this to any disco fans.

My kids Love This Collection!
I do too...Listening, i forget how long it has been since these
songs were popular! Few of these artsts had great albums,but if you are looking for a collection of good disco music from a fun
era...when you could still escape with music...this is a must-have! My kids love it too...and they are very young!
Regina

Flash Back in Time
Great selection of favorite listening and dance hits from the 70's. Although some of the songs I really wouldn't classify as disco, every one on the cd brought back many memories. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Where would the '80s have been without the Pet Shop Boys? Discography makes a compelling case for the notion of Neil Tennant and Chris Lowe as pioneers, if not geniuses. Mixing the cold feel of Euro-techno beats with the Boys' quest for something warm between the sheets, "What Have I Done to Deserve This" and "Suburbia" sound almost soulful.Although they seemed to be suffering from a terminal case of boredom, they managed to alchemize their ennui into touching sentimentality in "Love Comes Quickly," "Rent," and, especially, the AIDS-oriented "Being Boring." Discography begins with the Pet Shop Boys' beginning, "West End Girls," traveling past "Domino Dancing" and including their covers "Always on My Mind," and the medley "Where the Streets Have No Name (I Can't Take My Eyes Off of You.)" --Steve Gdula ... Read more

Reviews (84)

Still impossible to match
This album compiles all the hits the Pet Shop Boys had since their beggining until 1991. All of the tracks here are spotless pieces of pure pop magic: "West End Girls" is the first and, I'm happy to differ with most reviewers, decidedly not the pinnacle of the PSBs career. Tracks like "It's A Sin", "Suburbia", "Heart", "Being Boring", "Domino Dancing", "It's Alright" and "So Hard" truly portrait the utter brilliance and artistry that this group invested in its work. It's no wonder that they are still one of the most reveered pop acts of all times, truly up there with the likes of Abba and Depeche Mode. A new compilation has been released including all of their 1990s hits, but this one still remains unshadowed and an gem of pure 80s pop. You can do absolutely no wrong here... every track is delicious. Please do buy it... or else, get "PopArt" instead. That one has everything on here but "Was It Worth It?".

An album of classics....
This album, along with New Order's Substance 1987, form what is to me the soundtrack of the 80's.

This album literally lives up to its title as a discography, collecting the 7" versions of all of the boy's first 18 singles on one disc in chronological order. As such, it makes a terrific CD to buy as your first Pet Shop Boys disc as its a terrific overview of their material.

The Pet Shop Boys wit and irony, along with Neal Tennant's excellent voice combined to make some of the best pop songs of the 80's. Included are lot of well known hits like West End Girls, Suburbia, Always On My Mind, and What Have I Done To Deserve This?. There are also a lot of songs here that are virtually unknown in the U.S. but every bit as good as the afformentioned titles, such as "Love Comes Quickly" - a beautiful ballad - and "Heart", a song that they had considered giving to Madonna. Just as important, these songs have held up well to the test of time, even though some were recorded as early as 1984. Through these singles, the boy's take shots at capitalism (Opportunities), cover Elvis Presley and U2 (Always On My Mind and Where the Streets Have No Name), sing about the Gulf War (DJ Culture), urban decay (Suburbia), and 'rent boys' (Rent). The music always holds up and the lyrics display a level of intellegence unmatched by nearly every other group - for instance, in DJ Culture Neal quips "Like Liz [Taylor] before Betty [as in the Betty Ford Clinic], She [madonna] before Sean [Penn], suddenly you're missing, then you're reborn" - and in Left To My Own Devices, they invoke references to classical composers - "Che Guvara and Debussy to a disco beat" are just a few examples.

Also, carrying the discography theme further, this album scores bonus points as the CD booklet that comes with the album folds out to show a chart that includes information about all the songs, including a picture of the single cover of each, its peak UK chart position, and a brief blurb from the boys about each song. I wish more compilation albums would follow the Boy's lead in this regard.

It is a shame that
the real kings of pop music are so overlooked these days. But it doesn't matter: We, the ones who understand how good they are are having lots of fund and sheer quality. This is the first greatest hits from this unique band preceding their other golden item Popart. While it collects the entire catalogue of the Boys this is only up to 1991 and it has the wonderful Was It Worth it? I discovered them by chance when I heard their song I don't Know what you want but..from the Nightlife era and I have been collecting their items since then. Discography is a must for anyone having a good taste in music. These guys are simply geniuses no matter what the overproud Amazon.com reviewer says.

Boys, you are always on my mind!

Deserves millions of stars
Well, well maybe PopArt is released but Discography is something special. It collects the best pop songs ever by one of the best groups that this world has ever seen and will ever see. The ride in this album is a pure joy from the very start (West End Girls) to the very end (Was It Worth It). 1980s were the best years of pop songs and these guys are the responsible culprits. Never lyrics felt so effective; never music was so captivating...never melancholy, infinite sadness and a childish yearn for goodness and pureness blended as good as in this compilation. IMHO PSB are the real kings of music world...but because they are a synth band...they are not physically attractive...and they are gays oh how easy to overlook them ...but you never know what you are missing...

Discography is a zenith from a band that is always at the zenith. An album including jaw-dropping songs like Always On My Mind, Opportunities and well yes Left to My Own Devices deserve every bit of praise.

God bless these guys. They are the protective shields of true music lovers against the nonsense called Britney Spears, Eminem, 25 Cent and several more.

definatly a must-have
I found this is a pawn shop for $2.00 and of course, snatched it up.It's worth spending full-price on if only for "west end girls","surburbia","being boring" and "jealousy".but you get heaps of other wonderful songs.The only songs I don't like (but they may grow on me) are "it's alright and "dj culture" the rest is pure gold. ... Read more

Amazon.com

No one will lament the passing of the boy band phenomenon; now the American Idol runner-up Clay Aiken has released his first album. He's picked up right where 'N Sync and the Backstreet Boys left off, not only borrowing Andreas Carlsson, the Swedish songsmith who penned some of their biggest hits (also using the services of other well-known popmeisters like Desmond Child and Cathy Dennis), but turning out the same type of impeccable over-produced and seamless creations that the Orlando pop mafia rode up the charts at the dawn of the millennium. Several years into the new millennium it seems like there's still quite a bit of life left in that zeitgeist, since Aiken's Measure of a Man debuted at number one on the Billboard charts. Well crafted and well sung, but at times lacking discernable personality or endearing idiosyncrasies, many of Aiken's tunes sound the same, whether he's lamenting the lack of love in his life ("Invisible"), reveling in it ("Perfect Day"), or supporting his fellow man ("I Will Carry You"). As a made-for-TV pop star, it'll be interesting to see how Measure of a Man measures up in the years to come. --Jaan Uhelszki ... Read more

Reviews (3302)

Measure of a Man
I'm not a rabid clay fan and after reading a few bad reviews I was relunctant to purchase this CD -- BUT I AM GLAD I DID! After listening to MOAM I can say without a doubt it is a fantasic collection of wonderfully performed songs -- "The Way", "Run to Me" and "Measure of a Man" are way over the top of what I had expected. If you are on the fence about buying it, read Billboard's review:

"Clay Aiken's "Measure of a Man" is the best pop album of 2003. Every song, every note is brimming with ambition and glory. Thanks to the bull's-eye A&R talents of RCA chief Clive Davis and a cast of grade-A songwriters-including Cathy Dennis, Desmond Child, Kara DioGuardi, Gary Burr, Steve Morales, Andreas Carlsson-the "American Idol" hero's debut album perfectly matches his radiantly melodramatic voice with good, old-fashioned power ballads aimed straight for the gods. Throughout, the timeless production focuses squarely on Aiken's immense talent. "Run to Me" is arguably the sweet spot, the quintessential tear-jerker, along with show-stoppers "No More Sad Songs," "I Survived You" and the title track. In another radio era, this album could be the "Thriller" of the day, spawning hit after hit. In any case, fans have plenty to celebrate. "Measure of a Man" is an utter triumph of art and commerce.-CT"

My favorite CD!
I love Measure of a Man. I really, really, do.

1. Invisible - a pure pop song. Fun and catchy and great to sing along to, especially the chorus.
2. I Will Carry You - a really moving song of support and encouragement with some awesome money notes in there!
3. The Way - soooo romantic and my boyfriend and I's "song". Beautiful!
4. When You Say You Love Me - with a slight country feel, this upbeat number is a lot of fun for riding in the car and singing at the top of your lungs.
5. No More Sad Songs - oooh, Clay is mad! This song is kinda Elton John-esque. Very catchy, very strong vocals.
6. Run to Me - this one is absolutely heart-stoppingly gorgeous, and the bridge is to die for. Feels like an anthem from a romantic movie like "My Heart Will Go On" from Titanic...only a lot less grating. Hee.
7. Shine - very mellow rock kind of feel. One of my favorites on the album with great lyrics.
8. I Survived You - an angst-ridden, modern man's version of "I Will Survive". Very rock-ish. Awesome!
9. This is the Night - hell, everyone knows this song. It gives me goosebumps every time I listen to it. Stunning.
10. Perfect Day - LOL, I typed Perfect Clay at first by mistake. This one is another one of my faves...it's the most rock-oriented song on the album and Aiken nails it!
11. Measure of a Man - the title track is absolutely gorgeous. Very emotional and moving with a powerful message.
12. Touch - wow, didn't expect this one! With an almost-Latin beat, this song has driving guitars and percussion. The lyrics are sensual without being overtly sexual. Amazing.

All in all, a fantastic album. Well worth checking out.

GOD GIFT
I love you clay you mean so much to me when you came out on american idol my heart stopped my sister had to come and revive me. this album was incredible how can you get anymore better than this. well you can't!!! I don,t know why he didn't make 50 most beutiful but anyway please buy this album his vocals are incredible probably one of the best singers in the world!!!misty

Where would we be without Clay?
I've always loved Clay, but now that I own his CD, my love for him is reinforced. The CD is an album full of his beautiful voice. Even though the lyrics to some of the songs ("Touch" and "When You Say You Love Me") are terrible, he still sings them with grace. I can listen to this entire CD (save for the aforementioned songs) and satistfy my Clay addiction. All I can say is, this CD is highly recommended for any of my fellow Claymates.

You'll play it over and over again
It is so nice to be able to listen to a CD that is not offensive. So many people I know have been turned on to Clay because they have heard this CD. Then, there are other people that seem to be threatened by Clay for some unknown reason. He is just a sweet person with a golden voice. I hope he continues to put out new material, because I can't get enough. ... Read more

Album Description

UK edition of the tabloid queen/gifted vocalist's career retrospective. Featuring a different tracklisting than the domestic, this version features four tracks not available on the US version, 'RunTo You', 'Count On Me' (duet with CeCe Winans), 'Greatest Love Of All' (Club 69 Mix) and 'I'm Your Baby Tonight' (Dronez Mix) but only has 35 tracks where the US has 36. 2000 release. Standard double jewel case. ... Read more

Reviews (274)

Excellent CD... best Whitney CD
This is an excellent CD. I recommend you get if you like Whitney. It has all of her great hits and its TWO complely full CDs. Its very L O N G but very good. If you just want one of the songs I still recommend you buy the whole thing and listen to the whole thing.

Here's the track list I copied from Amazon.com:Disc: 1 1. You Give Good Love 2. Saving All My Love For You 3. Greatest Love Of All, The 4. All At Once 5. If You Say My Eyes Are Beautiful - (with Jermaine Jackson) 6. Didn't We Almost Have It All 7. Where Do Broken Hearts Go 8. All The Man That I Need 9. Run To You 10. I Have Nothing 11. I Will Always Love You 12. Exhale (Shoop Shoop) 13. Why Does It Hurt So Bad 14. I Believe In You And Me 15. Heartbreak Hotel (Featuring Faith Evans, & Kelly Price) 16. My Love Is Your Love 17. Same Script, Different Cast (Duet With Deborah Cox) 18. Could I Have This Kiss Forever (Duet With Enrique Iglesias) (Metro Mix) ----------------------

Disc: 2 1. Fine 2. If I Told You That (Whitney Houston & George Michael) 3. It's Not Right But It's Okay (Thunderpuss Mix) 4. My Love Is Your Love (Jonathan Peters Mix) 5. Heartbreak Hotel (Featuring Faith Evans And Kelly Price) (Hex Nector Mix) 6. I Learned From The Best (HQ2 Mix) 7. Step By Step (Junour Vasquez Mix) 8. I'm Every Woman (Clivilles & Cole Mix) 9. Queen Of The Night (CJ MacIntosh Mix) 10. I Will Always Love You (Hex Rector Mix) 11. Love Will Save The Day (Jellybean & David Morales Mix) 12. I'm Your Baby Tonight (Dronez Mix) 13. So Emotional (David Morales Mix) 14. I Wanna Dance With Somebody (Who Loves Me) (Junior Vasquez Mix) 15. How Will I Know (Junior Vasquez Mix) 16. Greatest Love Of All (Juniour Vasquez Mix) 17. One Moment In Time 18. The Star Spangled Banner (Performed Live 1/27/91 at Super Bowl XXV) ----------------------

This CD is definatly rememberable and is a bunch of Whitney Houston tied up in one great CD that you really need for your home CD collection. This is a great CD and I recommend you get it for yourself here at Amazon.com really cheap.

A set I have waited years to own!
It's about time Whitney released a greatest hits package! I have loved her music since high school in the mid-80's and have been dying for a compilation of her wonderful songs. The first disc is the best, containing mostly unmixed versions of her slower classics like "Saving All My Love For You," "Greatest Love of All," and "All At Once." The second disc is OK, I do enjoy the mixed versions, but would also have liked to have the original versions of "So Emotional," and "I Wanna Dance (With Somebody Who Loves Me.)" I was floored by the duet with Deborah Cox, "Same Script, Different Cast," I had never heard it before and it is beautiful. I also really like the inclusion of the Jermaine Jackson duet, "If You Say My Eyes Are Beautiful"; I only wish I knew it existed when I got married. The only other thing I dislike is that the CD case is a single jewel box...you have to pry the back cover apart to get the second CD out, and I can't tell you how annoying that is when you're at a stop light and need to get it out quick! You'd think that with all her clout she could persuade the record company to put the CD's in a jewel case with room for them. That's just one more reason I don't listen to the "Throw Down" disc too often. All in all, this is a satisfying retrospective of her career.

Whitney's Greatest Hits, or is it Remixes?
The first disc "Cool Down" of this truly magnifcent singer's greatest hits collection is superb, with all her greatest. Then comes "Throw Down". It's started off with "Fine" which is Ok, but it's not classic Whitney. Then she goes off into various remixes, those would have been better off in their original form, EXCEPT "I Will Always Love You". In that song, the best part is by far the 'And I's' where Whitney's best note in the song is transformed into an array of different volumes. It's cool. Bottom line: if you don't have any Whitney cd's and you're looking to get just the classics "Cool Down" will do it for you, "Throw Down" you can 'Throw Out' if you just want unspoiled Whitney classics, but if you're on the lookout for old and new, it's worth every penny.

Should have used the original versions of her dance hits
Whitney Houston has had an amazing career, churning out hit after hit over a 20 year span. She will truly be remembered as one of music's greatest divas. Her incomparable voice is showcased beautifully on the first disc of ballads. I was slightly disappointed with the second disc of dance hits, however. I was looking for her greatest hits, and I did not care for many of the "club" mixes of songs that I grew up listening to. I especially miss the original versions of "I Wanna Dance With Somebody" and "How Will I Know". I wish she had released the second disc with the original versions instead.

Cover to songs
From Cover to songs, her company has obtained and released a very good compilation. All the songs are timeless classic of Whitney. There are rare songs and I am glad that she didn't want to repeatedly release the songs again and again. It is a great way to consumers specially her fans, why would you buy a CD/2CD if they are exactly the same songs released in her old albums?
If you buy this CD and then you can truly tell people that you have "all" whitney songs. If you bought this and then tell people you don't like Whitney's songs then you have never liked her. If you bought this CD and then tell people you don't like what whitney does now, then you are a liar because how can you like her and now don't? as most songs are exactly from the previous albums.
The remixes are just a bonus. She doesnt have to give you that and you should appreciate it if you buy it. If you don't appreciate what she is doing, then please go ahead listen to something else. She didn't force you to buy her albums, you know! ... Read more

Amazon.com

Hollywood formula dictates that high school bookworm Casey (Michelle Trachtenberg) must struggle against both her own strong-willed mother (Joan Cusack) as well as her rival's (Kim Cattrall) in her quest to become a champion figure skater. It also inspires this soundtrack to be anchored by a rousing, against-all-odds anthem, "Reach," an infectious modern rocker by Caleigh Peters. Elsewhere, budding teen idol Jesse McCartney offers up the slick, 80's-inflected groove of "Get Your Shine On" while Michele Branch's "You Set Me Free" and "I Fly" by co-star Hayden Panetierre are infused with an inviting, harmony-rich contemporary sheen. Disney's penchant for energetic teeny-pop is showcased via Emma Roberts, Superchick and Natasha Bedingfield. But it's also an album eclectic enough to include the unabashed retro-Broadway charms of Lucy Woodward's "It's Oh So Quiet" and the more modern melodrama of Diana DeGarmo's "Reachin' For Heaven." --Jerry McCulley ... Read more

Reviews (30)

A great soundtrack for a great movie!!
This is an amazing soundtrack. The worst of teen pop can be sugary, cheesy, loud, and/or annoying, but the best of it can be beautiful. This soundtrack is among the best.

My favorites are:

"You Set Me Free"--Michelle Branch
Has a nice beat, lovely lyrics, and Michelle has a great voice.

"Reachin' For Heaven"--Diana DeGarmo
This song is so beautiful it still gives me chills after listening to it dozens of times. She has the most powerful voice in the pop world I've heard yet.

"No One"--Aly & AJ
A song that is more of a revelation every time I listen to it. These sisters definitely have talent (apparently they wrote this themselves) and lovely voices. And what lyrics! "And I ask myself/Who do I wanna be?/Do I wanna throw away the key/And invent a whole new me?/And I tell myself/No one/No one/Don't wanna be/No one but me" Look for their album sometime this year.

"Get Up"--Superchic[k]
This song has a great message ("I'm not afraid to fall/It means I've climbed up high/To fall is not to fail/You fail when you don't try/I'm not afraid to fall/I might just learn to fly/And I will spread these wings of mine") especially for skaters. Very encouraging.

"I Fly"--Hayden Panettiere
Hayden's voice is positively pretty! What other pop singer could pull off singing "Ly, ly, ly, ly, ly, ly, ly, ly, ly, ly ly ly ly, ly, ly . . .etc"? A lovely, lovely song. By the way, Hayden is signing with a record company. I hope her album(s) are as good as this song.

10 out of 10 stars **********!

The Ice Princess Soundtrack In My Opinion
Here is my opinion of this album:

1. Caleigh Peters - Reach (5/5)
This song is the single of the CD, and it's a very good song.

2. Emma Roberts - If I Had It My Way (5/5)
Total satisfaction!

3. Jesse McCartney - Get Your Shine On (5/5)
This song is pretty good.

4. Michelle Branch - You Set Me Free (5/5)
The song is really, really good.

5. Diana DeGarmo - Reachin' For Heaven (5/5)
I LOVE the chorus!

6. Aly & A.J. - No One
This song is SO awesome!

7. Lucy Woodward - It's Oh So Quiet (1/5)
This song is not good at all.

8. Superchic(k) - Get Up (5/5)
This song is awesome!

9. Hayden Panettiere - I Fly (5/5)
This song ROCKS!

10. Jump 5 - Just A Dream (5/5)
This song is amazing!

11. Raven~Symone` - Bump (5/5)
This song is really good.

12. Tina Sugandh - There Is No Alternative (4.5/5)
I hate the beginning, otherwise, this song is good.

13. Natasha Bedingfield - Unwritten (3/5)
The only parts I like are the choruses.

I don't know what you will think about this album. All of the songs on this album focus on following your dreams - no matter how far up you have to reach. The songs show us the possibilities in all
of us. From "No One" to "Unwritten," this is MY opinion of this amazing soundtrack. If you
have the CD, why don't