In a career spanning four decades Steveland Judkins Morris has been many things: child star, funk hero, political chronicler, the saviour of Motown Records and depressingly, the instigator of the painfully schmaltzy R&B ballad. Thankfully, this exhaustive "Best Of...", timed to commemorate the 40th anniversary of his first appearance as Little Stevie Wonder, focuses mainly on the 1966-1980 glory years and his transition from incendiary soul man to voice of the 70s. The jackhammer beats, shout-along choruses and wailing harmonica peg "Uptight", "Signed, Sealed, Delivered" and "I Was Made To Love Her" as three of the finest anthems of the Motown era, and "My Cherie Amour" as one of its sweetest love songs. But it was when he turned his attention to grinding keyboard grooves and social concerns that Wonder really came into his own. Inspired by ghetto funk and the unrest in 70s America he delivered three staggering albums, Talking Book, Innervisions and Songs in the Key of Life. Those albums highlights, "Living for the City", "Higher Ground", "I Wish", the gospel powered "As" and life-affirming Duke Ellington-tribute "Sir Duke", account for The Definitive Collection's standout tracks, while the rocking synth strut and ferocious horns of "Superstition" provide the defining moment. Next to such musical genius, the 80s slush of Motown's biggest ever selling single, "I Just Called To Say I Love You" seems particularly insipid. But like equally twee Paul McCartney duet "Ebony & Ivory", it's an easily skipped blip in an otherwise essential collection. --Dan Gennoe

Start with this and then buy the back catalogue, 01 Nov 2008
This is probably the best compilation album of Stevie's work and that's great but I urge you all to use this as a taster of his work, there is lots of it and if you buy anything before 1980 you will love it if you like this. Unfortunately he's done nothing of real note after the 1970's and that was where his key work was done. The trilogy of talking book, innvervisions and Songs in the key of life are treasures to be explored in their won right and you should all do so, personally although songs in the key of life is seen as his masterpiece it was a double album brain dump of everything he was working on and contains material that is weaker than the shorter talking book and innvervisions, with Innvervisions representing his finest (non compilation) album in my opinion, with perhaps Living for the City my favourite song of Stevie's.

So to conclude a brilliant compliation of the highlights of a genious career which will ease you into the back catalogue and allow you to uncover the gems that lie therein for yourselves.

Brillant, 04 Jan 2008
Bought this cd a few weeks ago and just can't stop listening to it. Whatever mode i am in, it cheers me up and makes me smile great album really worth getting.

ESSENTIAL STEVIE WONDER, 03 May 2006
Stevie Wonder (born Steveland Judkins Morris) began singing in a choir with his mother and siblings at a very early age at the Whitestone Baptist Church, which lay in his hometown of Saginaw.

By the age of 10, Stevie Wonder was a child prodigy. He proved a master on the piano, harmonica and drums and was adept at poetry and song-writing. Stevie was soon recommended by John Glover (who he was extensivley working with at the time) to Ronnie White, then a member of the fantastic, Smokey Robinson And The Miracles, who were signed to Detroits, Tamla Motown Records, founded by Berry Gordy who was instantly astounded by this child genius.

Dubbed Little Stevie Wonder in his early career, he was rapidly signed to Motown Records, home to some of the most important names in the history of black music including Diana Ross and Marvin Gaye. It was clear from an early age that Stevie Wonder indeed was a deeply gifted singer/songwriter and muscian.

Fingertips, released in 1963, proved an exhilirating masterpiece. Fingertips was virtually a harmonica instrumental but its just so totally infectious and caught onto the public like a magnet. Fingertips quickly catapulted to the top of the U.S charts and became the first in a long line of classics.

It was clearly his Motown work that remained some of his most popular and compelling output. The vibrant, Uptight (Everything's Alright) was a highly infectious affair as was the more sparse production of Yesterme-Yesteryou-Yesterday. The rolling undertones of playful funk on the classic, Signed, Sealed, Delivered (I'm Yours) were three classics that perharps were pure examples of how Stevie Wonder gradually adapted to more Pop styles where his work still vastly contained elements of traditional black rhythm and blues but was able to cross boundaries and break down many racial barriers (much in the way Diana Ross had). Though commercial in each of the tracks content, they all still firmly retained that earthy, soulful style, owing much to Stevies credible and unique vocal style.

Stevie proved to be a masterful lyric writer and conveyed an effortless flair for ballads such as on the passionate, timeless, My Cherie Amour (written with Henry Cosby) and the more subtle and profound, A Place In The Sun.

Like Marvin gaye, his work steadily progressed from the formulaic sounds of Motown to more creative, artistic and indepth material, releasing a string of quality studio albums throughout the 1970's. The startling Superstition was a sharp, nifty, funky number where Stevies voice effectivley cuts through the stark musical arrangements. He delivered a more anthemic message on the compelling, Higher Ground.

The awesome, Living For The City, was an exciting, severn-minute epic which echoed the restrictions and perils of ghetto life. Much of his work steered more into profound political and social issues that perfectly captured contemporary times and deservedly gained wide acknowledgement from critics.

Like Diana Ross (a close friend of the divas and he'd also written the dazzling compostion, Too Shy To Say for her 1977 studio album, Baby It's Me) his work eventually settled into the more Adult-Contemporary market that occupied the lower reaches of the charts yet fully remained an A-list novelty act. Such saccharine numbers like I Just Called To Say I Love You, may have become big cross-atlantic hits but this type of material lacks the dynamic of some of his earlier work.

Even so, Stevie Wonder continues to this day to enjoy a large and loyal following. This being the definitive collection of Stevie Wonders work makes it essential to any serious Soul/R&B/Motown collection.




The definitive Steve Wonder htis collection...for now..., 06 Nov 2003
The first collection of Stevie Wonder hits came out in 1968, when he was still a teenager. Of course, as a pre-teen "Little" Stevie gave Motown its first #1 album. In retrospect 1968 turned out to be a pivotal year in Wonder's career, which began covering Ray Charles songs and whose first hit "Fingertips, Part 2" actually came as a pre-teen, because that was the year he finally started writing most of the songs on his album (e.g., "My Cherie Amour"). The Wonder years definitively come in the early Seventies when he was putting out albums like "Music of My Mind," "Talking Book," "Innervisions," and "Songs in the Key of Life." This explains why the middle part of this collection is the best. Stevie Wonder is one of those artists where an album like this presenting his best work should give you impetus to go check out his best albums. Certainly there are artists where a good hits collection is all you need to have in your music library, but Stevie Wonder would not be one of those artists whose distinctive blend of odd riffs, incessant modulations and unpredictable melodies take advantage of his three-octave range. Yes, if you have but one Stevie Wonder album "The Definitive Collection" would be the one to get, but you should also explore at least the middle pair of the above referenced quartet.

The best Stevie Wonder compilation, 12 Oct 2003
It is easy to be confused by Stevie Wonder compilations. In the nineties, a double CD was released in America titled Song review, while a single CD was released in Britain with the same title and artwork. More recently, a single CD was released in America titled Definitive collection, so (conversely) a double CD was released in Britain with the same title and artwork. This British double CD is much better than the earlier American double CD titled Song review, which had fewer tracks and missed out some important songs. Indeed, this is the best compilation of Stevie's music that I've seen. Even on two CD's, it is not possible to include every Stevie Wonder recording worth hearing, but all the big hits in Britain and America are here.

You probably have your own favorites. I particularly like You are the sunshine of my life, For once in my life, Yester-me yester-you yesterday, Living for the city, I just called to say I love you, Sir Duke, A place in the sun, Lately and Happy birthday. Other classics (also excellent) include Superstition, I wish, Isn't she lovely, Ebony and ivory (with Paul McCartney), Never had a dream come true, Uptight and so many others.

If you only want one collection of Stevie Wonder music, this is by far the best. If you want to build a collection of his music, this is a great starting point.

These days she's fodder for tabloids and late-night comics, but way back in the 1990s Mariah Carey reigned as one of the world's bestselling female performers. This two-CD Greatest Hits collection offers up chart-topping evidence why, for better or worse, Mariah's five-octave, pop/R&B styling set the diva standard. Culled from her five albums on Sony, (before signing to Virgin), and you get all the facets of her platinum-plus sound. From the soulful smoulder of her 1990 debut "Vision of Love" (still one of her best tracks), to the coyer than thou duet with Jay Z ("Heartbreaker"), Carey thrills, trills and hits notes that only canines comprehend. Fans will gobble this collection up but inclusion of some of Carey's more adventurous remixes (eg: the Puffy produced "Fantasy", featuring ODB) might have made this package more noteworthy. --Amy Linden

Start with this and then buy the back catalogue, 01 Nov 2008
This is probably the best compilation album of Stevie's work and that's great but I urge you all to use this as a taster of his work, there is lots of it and if you buy anything before 1980 you will love it if you like this. Unfortunately he's done nothing of real note after the 1970's and that was where his key work was done. The trilogy of talking book, innvervisions and Songs in the key of life are treasures to be explored in their won right and you should all do so, personally although songs in the key of life is seen as his masterpiece it was a double album brain dump of everything he was working on and contains material that is weaker than the shorter talking book and innvervisions, with Innvervisions representing his finest (non compilation) album in my opinion, with perhaps Living for the City my favourite song of Stevie's.

So to conclude a brilliant compliation of the highlights of a genious career which will ease you into the back catalogue and allow you to uncover the gems that lie therein for yourselves.

Brillant, 04 Jan 2008
Bought this cd a few weeks ago and just can't stop listening to it. Whatever mode i am in, it cheers me up and makes me smile great album really worth getting.

ESSENTIAL STEVIE WONDER, 03 May 2006
Stevie Wonder (born Steveland Judkins Morris) began singing in a choir with his mother and siblings at a very early age at the Whitestone Baptist Church, which lay in his hometown of Saginaw.

By the age of 10, Stevie Wonder was a child prodigy. He proved a master on the piano, harmonica and drums and was adept at poetry and song-writing. Stevie was soon recommended by John Glover (who he was extensivley working with at the time) to Ronnie White, then a member of the fantastic, Smokey Robinson And The Miracles, who were signed to Detroits, Tamla Motown Records, founded by Berry Gordy who was instantly astounded by this child genius.

Dubbed Little Stevie Wonder in his early career, he was rapidly signed to Motown Records, home to some of the most important names in the history of black music including Diana Ross and Marvin Gaye. It was clear from an early age that Stevie Wonder indeed was a deeply gifted singer/songwriter and muscian.

Fingertips, released in 1963, proved an exhilirating masterpiece. Fingertips was virtually a harmonica instrumental but its just so totally infectious and caught onto the public like a magnet. Fingertips quickly catapulted to the top of the U.S charts and became the first in a long line of classics.

It was clearly his Motown work that remained some of his most popular and compelling output. The vibrant, Uptight (Everything's Alright) was a highly infectious affair as was the more sparse production of Yesterme-Yesteryou-Yesterday. The rolling undertones of playful funk on the classic, Signed, Sealed, Delivered (I'm Yours) were three classics that perharps were pure examples of how Stevie Wonder gradually adapted to more Pop styles where his work still vastly contained elements of traditional black rhythm and blues but was able to cross boundaries and break down many racial barriers (much in the way Diana Ross had). Though commercial in each of the tracks content, they all still firmly retained that earthy, soulful style, owing much to Stevies credible and unique vocal style.

Stevie proved to be a masterful lyric writer and conveyed an effortless flair for ballads such as on the passionate, timeless, My Cherie Amour (written with Henry Cosby) and the more subtle and profound, A Place In The Sun.

Like Marvin gaye, his work steadily progressed from the formulaic sounds of Motown to more creative, artistic and indepth material, releasing a string of quality studio albums throughout the 1970's. The startling Superstition was a sharp, nifty, funky number where Stevies voice effectivley cuts through the stark musical arrangements. He delivered a more anthemic message on the compelling, Higher Ground.

The awesome, Living For The City, was an exciting, severn-minute epic which echoed the restrictions and perils of ghetto life. Much of his work steered more into profound political and social issues that perfectly captured contemporary times and deservedly gained wide acknowledgement from critics.

Like Diana Ross (a close friend of the divas and he'd also written the dazzling compostion, Too Shy To Say for her 1977 studio album, Baby It's Me) his work eventually settled into the more Adult-Contemporary market that occupied the lower reaches of the charts yet fully remained an A-list novelty act. Such saccharine numbers like I Just Called To Say I Love You, may have become big cross-atlantic hits but this type of material lacks the dynamic of some of his earlier work.

Even so, Stevie Wonder continues to this day to enjoy a large and loyal following. This being the definitive collection of Stevie Wonders work makes it essential to any serious Soul/R&B/Motown collection.




The definitive Steve Wonder htis collection...for now..., 06 Nov 2003
The first collection of Stevie Wonder hits came out in 1968, when he was still a teenager. Of course, as a pre-teen "Little" Stevie gave Motown its first #1 album. In retrospect 1968 turned out to be a pivotal year in Wonder's career, which began covering Ray Charles songs and whose first hit "Fingertips, Part 2" actually came as a pre-teen, because that was the year he finally started writing most of the songs on his album (e.g., "My Cherie Amour"). The Wonder years definitively come in the early Seventies when he was putting out albums like "Music of My Mind," "Talking Book," "Innervisions," and "Songs in the Key of Life." This explains why the middle part of this collection is the best. Stevie Wonder is one of those artists where an album like this presenting his best work should give you impetus to go check out his best albums. Certainly there are artists where a good hits collection is all you need to have in your music library, but Stevie Wonder would not be one of those artists whose distinctive blend of odd riffs, incessant modulations and unpredictable melodies take advantage of his three-octave range. Yes, if you have but one Stevie Wonder album "The Definitive Collection" would be the one to get, but you should also explore at least the middle pair of the above referenced quartet.

The best Stevie Wonder compilation, 12 Oct 2003
It is easy to be confused by Stevie Wonder compilations. In the nineties, a double CD was released in America titled Song review, while a single CD was released in Britain with the same title and artwork. More recently, a single CD was released in America titled Definitive collection, so (conversely) a double CD was released in Britain with the same title and artwork. This British double CD is much better than the earlier American double CD titled Song review, which had fewer tracks and missed out some important songs. Indeed, this is the best compilation of Stevie's music that I've seen. Even on two CD's, it is not possible to include every Stevie Wonder recording worth hearing, but all the big hits in Britain and America are here.

You probably have your own favorites. I particularly like You are the sunshine of my life, For once in my life, Yester-me yester-you yesterday, Living for the city, I just called to say I love you, Sir Duke, A place in the sun, Lately and Happy birthday. Other classics (also excellent) include Superstition, I wish, Isn't she lovely, Ebony and ivory (with Paul McCartney), Never had a dream come true, Uptight and so many others.

If you only want one collection of Stevie Wonder music, this is by far the best. If you want to build a collection of his music, this is a great starting point.

Well done America!, 11 Aug 2008
Disc 1:
1. Vision of Love. 10/10
2. Love Takes Time. 10/10
3. Someday. 10/10
4. I Don't Wanna Cry. 10/10
5. Emotions. 10/10
6. Can't Let Go. 8/10
7. Maake It Happen. 10/10
8. I'll Be There. 9/10
9. Dreamlover. 10/10
10. Hero. 10/10
11. Without You. 10/10
12. Anytime You Need A Friend. 9/10
13. Endless Love. 8/10
14. Fantasy. 10/10

Disc 2:
1. One Sweet Day. 8/10
2. Always Be My Baby. 10/10
3. Forever. 9/10
4. Underneath The Stars. 10/10
5. Honey. 10/10
6. Butterfly. 10/10
7. My All. 10/10
8. Sweetheart. 10/10
9. When You Believe. 10/10
10. I Still Believe. 10/10
11. Heartbreaker. 10/10
12. Thank God I Found You. 10/10
13. Can't Take That Away (Mariah's Theme). 10/10
14. Against All Odds (Take A Look At Me Now). 10/10
15. All I Want For Christmas Is You (2001 Version). 10/10

OVERALL GRADE: 10/10
Mariah is absolutely brilliant, more powerful than Whitney, more soulful than Celine, and, obviously, better than Britney. AMAZING!


They're all amazing., 12 May 2008
wow.
America should be proud to have such a talent.
Not a weak song on this greatest hits.
Absolutely classic.
Why can't britain have music like this??

The Definitive Mariah Collection - Defiantly One To Own., 03 May 2008
A chronicled collection of all Mariah's greatest hits throughout the years, and some extra stuff thrown in on the way, i mean let's face it everyone knows that Mariah's got one of the best back catalogues of all time, and the voice to match, so it was bound to be an easy success. On this album Mariah does not miss anything out, it's all here, all 2 discs of it, the definitive collection, it highlights each albums hit singles from 1990, appropriately opening with Mariah's first single `Vision Of Love' to 1999 the 'Rainbow' era, so basically you get the 90s Mariah. Overall it's just really inspiring music, that you'll want to listen to for years to come.


Greatest Hits, 04 Nov 2007
This album is great you must buy this album if you are a new mariah fan or a huge fan still great album best tracks are fantasy honey my all heart breaker and well the rest of the album! 10/10

corporate rubbish, 23 Oct 2006
i carnt believe people still listen to this kind of trash,just like x factor on t.v,i know everbody is different but come on,i would regard myself as a grunge fan but i have a varied music collection,the beetles,radiohead,sam and dave,level 42,to name afew.
dont fund this diva as all she does is rip off everybody elses songs,do yourself a favour and listen to motown or 60s soul and see what real music is

Songs in the Key of Life was the highest high-point of Stevie Wonder's career. More sprawling than Innervisions and Talking Book, this 2 LP-plus-EP was also less of a consistent stunner than either of those masterworks. That Songs retains an enormous amount of visionary relevance, though, is demonstrated not only in Coolio's borrowing of "Pastime Paradise" as a template for "Gangsta's Paradise", but in the cold-as-ice synthesized string quartet of "Village Ghetto Land". This is Stevie, so naturally that cut's anger is balanced by the ultra-buoyant "I Wish," "Sir Duke", and "Another Star". --Rickey Wright

Start with this and then buy the back catalogue, 01 Nov 2008
This is probably the best compilation album of Stevie's work and that's great but I urge you all to use this as a taster of his work, there is lots of it and if you buy anything before 1980 you will love it if you like this. Unfortunately he's done nothing of real note after the 1970's and that was where his key work was done. The trilogy of talking book, innvervisions and Songs in the key of life are treasures to be explored in their won right and you should all do so, personally although songs in the key of life is seen as his masterpiece it was a double album brain dump of everything he was working on and contains material that is weaker than the shorter talking book and innvervisions, with Innvervisions representing his finest (non compilation) album in my opinion, with perhaps Living for the City my favourite song of Stevie's.

So to conclude a brilliant compliation of the highlights of a genious career which will ease you into the back catalogue and allow you to uncover the gems that lie therein for yourselves.

Brillant, 04 Jan 2008
Bought this cd a few weeks ago and just can't stop listening to it. Whatever mode i am in, it cheers me up and makes me smile great album really worth getting.

ESSENTIAL STEVIE WONDER, 03 May 2006
Stevie Wonder (born Steveland Judkins Morris) began singing in a choir with his mother and siblings at a very early age at the Whitestone Baptist Church, which lay in his hometown of Saginaw.

By the age of 10, Stevie Wonder was a child prodigy. He proved a master on the piano, harmonica and drums and was adept at poetry and song-writing. Stevie was soon recommended by John Glover (who he was extensivley working with at the time) to Ronnie White, then a member of the fantastic, Smokey Robinson And The Miracles, who were signed to Detroits, Tamla Motown Records, founded by Berry Gordy who was instantly astounded by this child genius.

Dubbed Little Stevie Wonder in his early career, he was rapidly signed to Motown Records, home to some of the most important names in the history of black music including Diana Ross and Marvin Gaye. It was clear from an early age that Stevie Wonder indeed was a deeply gifted singer/songwriter and muscian.

Fingertips, released in 1963, proved an exhilirating masterpiece. Fingertips was virtually a harmonica instrumental but its just so totally infectious and caught onto the public like a magnet. Fingertips quickly catapulted to the top of the U.S charts and became the first in a long line of classics.

It was clearly his Motown work that remained some of his most popular and compelling output. The vibrant, Uptight (Everything's Alright) was a highly infectious affair as was the more sparse production of Yesterme-Yesteryou-Yesterday. The rolling undertones of playful funk on the classic, Signed, Sealed, Delivered (I'm Yours) were three classics that perharps were pure examples of how Stevie Wonder gradually adapted to more Pop styles where his work still vastly contained elements of traditional black rhythm and blues but was able to cross boundaries and break down many racial barriers (much in the way Diana Ross had). Though commercial in each of the tracks content, they all still firmly retained that earthy, soulful style, owing much to Stevies credible and unique vocal style.

Stevie proved to be a masterful lyric writer and conveyed an effortless flair for ballads such as on the passionate, timeless, My Cherie Amour (written with Henry Cosby) and the more subtle and profound, A Place In The Sun.

Like Marvin gaye, his work steadily progressed from the formulaic sounds of Motown to more creative, artistic and indepth material, releasing a string of quality studio albums throughout the 1970's. The startling Superstition was a sharp, nifty, funky number where Stevies voice effectivley cuts through the stark musical arrangements. He delivered a more anthemic message on the compelling, Higher Ground.

The awesome, Living For The City, was an exciting, severn-minute epic which echoed the restrictions and perils of ghetto life. Much of his work steered more into profound political and social issues that perfectly captured contemporary times and deservedly gained wide acknowledgement from critics.

Like Diana Ross (a close friend of the divas and he'd also written the dazzling compostion, Too Shy To Say for her 1977 studio album, Baby It's Me) his work eventually settled into the more Adult-Contemporary market that occupied the lower reaches of the charts yet fully remained an A-list novelty act. Such saccharine numbers like I Just Called To Say I Love You, may have become big cross-atlantic hits but this type of material lacks the dynamic of some of his earlier work.

Even so, Stevie Wonder continues to this day to enjoy a large and loyal following. This being the definitive collection of Stevie Wonders work makes it essential to any serious Soul/R&B/Motown collection.




The definitive Steve Wonder htis collection...for now..., 06 Nov 2003
The first collection of Stevie Wonder hits came out in 1968, when he was still a teenager. Of course, as a pre-teen "Little" Stevie gave Motown its first #1 album. In retrospect 1968 turned out to be a pivotal year in Wonder's career, which began covering Ray Charles songs and whose first hit "Fingertips, Part 2" actually came as a pre-teen, because that was the year he finally started writing most of the songs on his album (e.g., "My Cherie Amour"). The Wonder years definitively come in the early Seventies when he was putting out albums like "Music of My Mind," "Talking Book," "Innervisions," and "Songs in the Key of Life." This explains why the middle part of this collection is the best. Stevie Wonder is one of those artists where an album like this presenting his best work should give you impetus to go check out his best albums. Certainly there are artists where a good hits collection is all you need to have in your music library, but Stevie Wonder would not be one of those artists whose distinctive blend of odd riffs, incessant modulations and unpredictable melodies take advantage of his three-octave range. Yes, if you have but one Stevie Wonder album "The Definitive Collection" would be the one to get, but you should also explore at least the middle pair of the above referenced quartet.

The best Stevie Wonder compilation, 12 Oct 2003
It is easy to be confused by Stevie Wonder compilations. In the nineties, a double CD was released in America titled Song review, while a single CD was released in Britain with the same title and artwork. More recently, a single CD was released in America titled Definitive collection, so (conversely) a double CD was released in Britain with the same title and artwork. This British double CD is much better than the earlier American double CD titled Song review, which had fewer tracks and missed out some important songs. Indeed, this is the best compilation of Stevie's music that I've seen. Even on two CD's, it is not possible to include every Stevie Wonder recording worth hearing, but all the big hits in Britain and America are here.

You probably have your own favorites. I particularly like You are the sunshine of my life, For once in my life, Yester-me yester-you yesterday, Living for the city, I just called to say I love you, Sir Duke, A place in the sun, Lately and Happy birthday. Other classics (also excellent) include Superstition, I wish, Isn't she lovely, Ebony and ivory (with Paul McCartney), Never had a dream come true, Uptight and so many others.

If you only want one collection of Stevie Wonder music, this is by far the best. If you want to build a collection of his music, this is a great starting point.

Well done America!, 11 Aug 2008
Disc 1:
1. Vision of Love. 10/10
2. Love Takes Time. 10/10
3. Someday. 10/10
4. I Don't Wanna Cry. 10/10
5. Emotions. 10/10
6. Can't Let Go. 8/10
7. Maake It Happen. 10/10
8. I'll Be There. 9/10
9. Dreamlover. 10/10
10. Hero. 10/10
11. Without You. 10/10
12. Anytime You Need A Friend. 9/10
13. Endless Love. 8/10
14. Fantasy. 10/10

Disc 2:
1. One Sweet Day. 8/10
2. Always Be My Baby. 10/10
3. Forever. 9/10
4. Underneath The Stars. 10/10
5. Honey. 10/10
6. Butterfly. 10/10
7. My All. 10/10
8. Sweetheart. 10/10
9. When You Believe. 10/10
10. I Still Believe. 10/10
11. Heartbreaker. 10/10
12. Thank God I Found You. 10/10
13. Can't Take That Away (Mariah's Theme). 10/10
14. Against All Odds (Take A Look At Me Now). 10/10
15. All I Want For Christmas Is You (2001 Version). 10/10

OVERALL GRADE: 10/10
Mariah is absolutely brilliant, more powerful than Whitney, more soulful than Celine, and, obviously, better than Britney. AMAZING!


They're all amazing., 12 May 2008
wow.
America should be proud to have such a talent.
Not a weak song on this greatest hits.
Absolutely classic.
Why can't britain have music like this??

The Definitive Mariah Collection - Defiantly One To Own., 03 May 2008
A chronicled collection of all Mariah's greatest hits throughout the years, and some extra stuff thrown in on the way, i mean let's face it everyone knows that Mariah's got one of the best back catalogues of all time, and the voice to match, so it was bound to be an easy success. On this album Mariah does not miss anything out, it's all here, all 2 discs of it, the definitive collection, it highlights each albums hit singles from 1990, appropriately opening with Mariah's first single `Vision Of Love' to 1999 the 'Rainbow' era, so basically you get the 90s Mariah. Overall it's just really inspiring music, that you'll want to listen to for years to come.


Greatest Hits, 04 Nov 2007
This album is great you must buy this album if you are a new mariah fan or a huge fan still great album best tracks are fantasy honey my all heart breaker and well the rest of the album! 10/10

corporate rubbish, 23 Oct 2006
i carnt believe people still listen to this kind of trash,just like x factor on t.v,i know everbody is different but come on,i would regard myself as a grunge fan but i have a varied music collection,the beetles,radiohead,sam and dave,level 42,to name afew.
dont fund this diva as all she does is rip off everybody elses songs,do yourself a favour and listen to motown or 60s soul and see what real music is

The peak of perfection., 10 Oct 2008
Can anybody think of many double albums on which every track is even 'good' let alone a master work? They are very few and far between as the majority of them just go on for far to long with too much 'filler'. And so we come to SONGS IN THE KEY OF LIFE by MR. Stevland Morris.
After the masterpiece which was INNERVISIONS in 1973, Stevie Wonder released this magnum-opus in 1976. Is it as good as INNERVISIONS? The answer is a resounding YES, YES, YES!
Up-lifting and beautiful, happy yet melancholy, it doesn't get any better than this.
Go and buy it.

Stevie's Magnum Opus, 15 Aug 2008
I can't add much to what's already been written here. This is an essential album - though I regard all of the following as essential too:

Talking Book
Innervisions
Fulfillingness First Finale

If you're new to Stevie's work, please don't buy a collection, you'll be missing out on so much!

an absolute classic stevie wonder youre cool!, 20 Jul 2008
this a fantastic double album all the songs are fab i also recommend the albums music of my mind talking book and innervisions and original musiquarium there fantastic buy this you wont regret it!!

"Wonder" ful, 29 Jan 2008
Have the vinyl. Now got the CD and its still timeless. I have many favourites. Love "I am singing" this sums up stevies life in music.
The song writing is 1st class. in my view far better than Lennon/Mccartney ever were. This guy does the lot himself. This album should be in every collection. best selling double album of all time, i believe. Well justified.

Stevie's Best, 10 Jan 2008
Somehow it seems uncool to rate an artist's most succesful album as their best, but I make no apology for doing so in this case.

By 1976, Stevie Wonder had established himself as perhaps the first black artist who could consistantly sell albums in all markets around the world, winning awards, including best album Grammys. It is amazing to think that he had been around for over a decade, but was still only 26 years old. He wrote, sang, played and produced with the maturity of a much older man.

My favorite tracks are 'As' which was the third or fourth single so didn't do too well, but the lyrics are worthy of Smokey. It is the last word in love songs. It was revived a few years back by George Michael and Mary J Blige. I also like 'Village Ghetto Land', a biting social commetary. Then there is 'If It's Magic' a stunningly simple track with just Stevie's voice and a harp. It calls for a wider universal love.

As a teenager, I saved pocket money for weeks to buy the vynil, and replaced it on CD as soon as it was released. Now here it is remastered for next to nothing! People don't realise they are born today!

M!ssundaztood is the follow-up to Pink's platinum selling debut. On Can't Take Me Home Pink established herself as one of the biggest R&B/pop acts of 2000; a status she later confirmed by stealing the limelight from fellow divas-with-attitude Missy Elliott, Mya and Christina Aguilera on their No. 1 cover of "Lady Marmalade". M!ssundaztood, however, reveals an ambition that extends far beyond the massed ranks of R&B's feisty female fraternity. Pink wants to be a pop star, pure and simple. Consequently, as well as the tried and tested R&B groove of first single "Get The Party Started" and funky hip-hop of "Respect", she adds a random yet brilliant selection of full-blown radio rock ("18 Wheeler", "Numb"), sassy pop ("M!ssundaztood") and emotionally charged laments ("Dear Diary", "Family Portrait", "Eventually"). Stylistically confused as it is- "Misery", a woozy bar room blues duet with Aerosmith's Steven Tyler is perhaps the most out of character--with some great tunes and a voice just as capable of fragile emotion as it is attitude, she somehow manages to pull it off. --Dan Gennoe

Start with this and then buy the back catalogue, 01 Nov 2008
This is probably the best compilation album of Stevie's work and that's great but I urge you all to use this as a taster of his work, there is lots of it and if you buy anything before 1980 you will love it if you like this. Unfortunately he's done nothing of real note after the 1970's and that was where his key work was done. The trilogy of talking book, innvervisions and Songs in the key of life are treasures to be explored in their won right and you should all do so, personally although songs in the key of life is seen as his masterpiece it was a double album brain dump of everything he was working on and contains material that is weaker than the shorter talking book and innvervisions, with Innvervisions representing his finest (non compilation) album in my opinion, with perhaps Living for the City my favourite song of Stevie's.

So to conclude a brilliant compliation of the highlights of a genious career which will ease you into the back catalogue and allow you to uncover the gems that lie therein for yourselves.

Brillant, 04 Jan 2008
Bought this cd a few weeks ago and just can't stop listening to it. Whatever mode i am in, it cheers me up and makes me smile great album really worth getting.

ESSENTIAL STEVIE WONDER, 03 May 2006
Stevie Wonder (born Steveland Judkins Morris) began singing in a choir with his mother and siblings at a very early age at the Whitestone Baptist Church, which lay in his hometown of Saginaw.

By the age of 10, Stevie Wonder was a child prodigy. He proved a master on the piano, harmonica and drums and was adept at poetry and song-writing. Stevie was soon recommended by John Glover (who he was extensivley working with at the time) to Ronnie White, then a member of the fantastic, Smokey Robinson And The Miracles, who were signed to Detroits, Tamla Motown Records, founded by Berry Gordy who was instantly astounded by this child genius.

Dubbed Little Stevie Wonder in his early career, he was rapidly signed to Motown Records, home to some of the most important names in the history of black music including Diana Ross and Marvin Gaye. It was clear from an early age that Stevie Wonder indeed was a deeply gifted singer/songwriter and muscian.

Fingertips, released in 1963, proved an exhilirating masterpiece. Fingertips was virtually a harmonica instrumental but its just so totally infectious and caught onto the public like a magnet. Fingertips quickly catapulted to the top of the U.S charts and became the first in a long line of classics.

It was clearly his Motown work that remained some of his most popular and compelling output. The vibrant, Uptight (Everything's Alright) was a highly infectious affair as was the more sparse production of Yesterme-Yesteryou-Yesterday. The rolling undertones of playful funk on the classic, Signed, Sealed, Delivered (I'm Yours) were three classics that perharps were pure examples of how Stevie Wonder gradually adapted to more Pop styles where his work still vastly contained elements of traditional black rhythm and blues but was able to cross boundaries and break down many racial barriers (much in the way Diana Ross had). Though commercial in each of the tracks content, they all still firmly retained that earthy, soulful style, owing much to Stevies credible and unique vocal style.

Stevie proved to be a masterful lyric writer and conveyed an effortless flair for ballads such as on the passionate, timeless, My Cherie Amour (written with Henry Cosby) and the more subtle and profound, A Place In The Sun.

Like Marvin gaye, his work steadily progressed from the formulaic sounds of Motown to more creative, artistic and indepth material, releasing a string of quality studio albums throughout the 1970's. The startling Superstition was a sharp, nifty, funky number where Stevies voice effectivley cuts through the stark musical arrangements. He delivered a more anthemic message on the compelling, Higher Ground.

The awesome, Living For The City, was an exciting, severn-minute epic which echoed the restrictions and perils of ghetto life. Much of his work steered more into profound political and social issues that perfectly captured contemporary times and deservedly gained wide acknowledgement from critics.

Like Diana Ross (a close friend of the divas and he'd also written the dazzling compostion, Too Shy To Say for her 1977 studio album, Baby It's Me) his work eventually settled into the more Adult-Contemporary market that occupied the lower reaches of the charts yet fully remained an A-list novelty act. Such saccharine numbers like I Just Called To Say I Love You, may have become big cross-atlantic hits but this type of material lacks the dynamic of some of his earlier work.

Even so, Stevie Wonder continues to this day to enjoy a large and loyal following. This being the definitive collection of Stevie Wonders work makes it essential to any serious Soul/R&B/Motown collection.




The definitive Steve Wonder htis collection...for now..., 06 Nov 2003
The first collection of Stevie Wonder hits came out in 1968, when he was still a teenager. Of course, as a pre-teen "Little" Stevie gave Motown its first #1 album. In retrospect 1968 turned out to be a pivotal year in Wonder's career, which began covering Ray Charles songs and whose first hit "Fingertips, Part 2" actually came as a pre-teen, because that was the year he finally started writing most of the songs on his album (e.g., "My Cherie Amour"). The Wonder years definitively come in the early Seventies when he was putting out albums like "Music of My Mind," "Talking Book," "Innervisions," and "Songs in the Key of Life." This explains why the middle part of this collection is the best. Stevie Wonder is one of those artists where an album like this presenting his best work should give you impetus to go check out his best albums. Certainly there are artists where a good hits collection is all you need to have in your music library, but Stevie Wonder would not be one of those artists whose distinctive blend of odd riffs, incessant modulations and unpredictable melodies take advantage of his three-octave range. Yes, if you have but one Stevie Wonder album "The Definitive Collection" would be the one to get, but you should also explore at least the middle pair of the above referenced quartet.

The best Stevie Wonder compilation, 12 Oct 2003
It is easy to be confused by Stevie Wonder compilations. In the nineties, a double CD was released in America titled Song review, while a single CD was released in Britain with the same title and artwork. More recently, a single CD was released in America titled Definitive collection, so (conversely) a double CD was released in Britain with the same title and artwork. This British double CD is much better than the earlier American double CD titled Song review, which had fewer tracks and missed out some important songs. Indeed, this is the best compilation of Stevie's music that I've seen. Even on two CD's, it is not possible to include every Stevie Wonder recording worth hearing, but all the big hits in Britain and America are here.

You probably have your own favorites. I particularly like You are the sunshine of my life, For once in my life, Yester-me yester-you yesterday, Living for the city, I just called to say I love you, Sir Duke, A place in the sun, Lately and Happy birthday. Other classics (also excellent) include Superstition, I wish, Isn't she lovely, Ebony and ivory (with Paul McCartney), Never had a dream come true, Uptight and so many others.

If you only want one collection of Stevie Wonder music, this is by far the best. If you want to build a collection of his music, this is a great starting point.

Well done America!, 11 Aug 2008
Disc 1:
1. Vision of Love. 10/10
2. Love Takes Time. 10/10
3. Someday. 10/10
4. I Don't Wanna Cry. 10/10
5. Emotions. 10/10
6. Can't Let Go. 8/10
7. Maake It Happen. 10/10
8. I'll Be There. 9/10
9. Dreamlover. 10/10
10. Hero. 10/10
11. Without You. 10/10
12. Anytime You Need A Friend. 9/10
13. Endless Love. 8/10
14. Fantasy. 10/10

Disc 2:
1. One Sweet Day. 8/10
2. Always Be My Baby. 10/10
3. Forever. 9/10
4. Underneath The Stars. 10/10
5. Honey. 10/10
6. Butterfly. 10/10
7. My All. 10/10
8. Sweetheart. 10/10
9. When You Believe. 10/10
10. I Still Believe. 10/10
11. Heartbreaker. 10/10
12. Thank God I Found You. 10/10
13. Can't Take That Away (Mariah's Theme). 10/10
14. Against All Odds (Take A Look At Me Now). 10/10
15. All I Want For Christmas Is You (2001 Version). 10/10

OVERALL GRADE: 10/10
Mariah is absolutely brilliant, more powerful than Whitney, more soulful than Celine, and, obviously, better than Britney. AMAZING!


They're all amazing., 12 May 2008
wow.
America should be proud to have such a talent.
Not a weak song on this greatest hits.
Absolutely classic.
Why can't britain have music like this??

The Definitive Mariah Collection - Defiantly One To Own., 03 May 2008
A chronicled collection of all Mariah's greatest hits throughout the years, and some extra stuff thrown in on the way, i mean let's face it everyone knows that Mariah's got one of the best back catalogues of all time, and the voice to match, so it was bound to be an easy success. On this album Mariah does not miss anything out, it's all here, all 2 discs of it, the definitive collection, it highlights each albums hit singles from 1990, appropriately opening with Mariah's first single `Vision Of Love' to 1999 the 'Rainbow' era, so basically you get the 90s Mariah. Overall it's just really inspiring music, that you'll want to listen to for years to come.


Greatest Hits, 04 Nov 2007
This album is great you must buy this album if you are a new mariah fan or a huge fan still great album best tracks are fantasy honey my all heart breaker and well the rest of the album! 10/10

corporate rubbish, 23 Oct 2006
i carnt believe people still listen to this kind of trash,just like x factor on t.v,i know everbody is different but come on,i would regard myself as a grunge fan but i have a varied music collection,the beetles,radiohead,sam and dave,level 42,to name afew.
dont fund this diva as all she does is rip off everybody elses songs,do yourself a favour and listen to motown or 60s soul and see what real music is

The peak of perfection., 10 Oct 2008
Can anybody think of many double albums on which every track is even 'good' let alone a master work? They are very few and far between as the majority of them just go on for far to long with too much 'filler'. And so we come to SONGS IN THE KEY OF LIFE by MR. Stevland Morris.
After the masterpiece which was INNERVISIONS in 1973, Stevie Wonder released this magnum-opus in 1976. Is it as good as INNERVISIONS? The answer is a resounding YES, YES, YES!
Up-lifting and beautiful, happy yet melancholy, it doesn't get any better than this.
Go and buy it.

Stevie's Magnum Opus, 15 Aug 2008
I can't add much to what's already been written here. This is an essential album - though I regard all of the following as essential too:

Talking Book
Innervisions
Fulfillingness First Finale

If you're new to Stevie's work, please don't buy a collection, you'll be missing out on so much!

an absolute classic stevie wonder youre cool!, 20 Jul 2008
this a fantastic double album all the songs are fab i also recommend the albums music of my mind talking book and innervisions and original musiquarium there fantastic buy this you wont regret it!!

"Wonder" ful, 29 Jan 2008
Have the vinyl. Now got the CD and its still timeless. I have many favourites. Love "I am singing" this sums up stevies life in music.
The song writing is 1st class. in my view far better than Lennon/Mccartney ever were. This guy does the lot himself. This album should be in every collection. best selling double album of all time, i believe. Well justified.

Stevie's Best, 10 Jan 2008
Somehow it seems uncool to rate an artist's most succesful album as their best, but I make no apology for doing so in this case.

By 1976, Stevie Wonder had established himself as perhaps the first black artist who could consistantly sell albums in all markets around the world, winning awards, including best album Grammys. It is amazing to think that he had been around for over a decade, but was still only 26 years old. He wrote, sang, played and produced with the maturity of a much older man.

My favorite tracks are 'As' which was the third or fourth single so didn't do too well, but the lyrics are worthy of Smokey. It is the last word in love songs. It was revived a few years back by George Michael and Mary J Blige. I also like 'Village Ghetto Land', a biting social commetary. Then there is 'If It's Magic' a stunningly simple track with just Stevie's voice and a harp. It calls for a wider universal love.

As a teenager, I saved pocket money for weeks to buy the vynil, and replaced it on CD as soon as it was released. Now here it is remastered for next to nothing! People don't realise they are born today!

get any party started!, 05 Apr 2007
in my opinion this is the best of all the pink albums there is, "im not dead" is very good too, but this one is so cool and every single on of the songs is brilliant! pink is so cool!

Excellent from Pink, 05 Aug 2006
On its release this was one of the most popular pop albums of 2002 and its easy to see why.

With the combination of a variety of pop songs, P!nk established herself as the most successful female solo artist of 2002 with this fantastic follow up album to her first solo album `Can't take me home' which was good but not a patch on this one.

The album sold magnificently, 16 million people world wide recognized the singer's talents and purchased the second album of her career, outselling her debut album by 13 million, proving she has established herself as a dominant solo artist in the pop music industry.

The excellent variety adds a greater aspect of taste for the listener. Viewers have the chance to listen to the very party pop song `Get the party started' which was unluckily denied number 1. The song focuses upon Pink going out and having a good time with her friends, viewers will be able to associate with the poppy music and be able to dance with the upbeat rhythm and stylish lyrics.

We have the very affecting `Family Portrait' where Pink changes her choice of singing and goes for very emotional issues about her parents fighting and her desperation for them to resolve their problems so that they can live peacefully as a family. Undeservedly entering at 11 in the U.K. charts the song is slow and Pink sings beautifully to capture the essence of the song.

Pink's first number 1 single came with this album, `Just like a pill' and the artist worked so hard to gain her first smash audiences were extremely happy for her. The song itself focuses upon many love issues as the artist sings about someone causing her pain and the effects it has had upon her. A very slow beat captured by an upbeat chorus adds to a great listen for anyone.

There are many great slow songs including: `Dear Diary' `Gone to California' and `Eventually'
But Pink also includes party pop style songs such as '18 wheeler' and `Respect'

Collaborating with established artists such as Linda Perry and Steven Tyler created even more influential pop music and raised the rising star's status as a now established singer.

This album creates passion for the listener with slow songs but overall creates a very upbeat mood as audiences can appreciate the moods the singer is experiencing. The party songs add a great aspect of Pink's life to her album and audiences have a choice of different styles to listen to.

It's a great album and definitely worth purchasing.

Outstanding, 03 Oct 2005
I also realise this album was released years ago but its that good it compelled me to write a review.
Can't Take Me Home was aimed at a totally different demographic than Misunderstood, reason being that Pink took control of her career and proved LaFace she could make it as a Rock artist.
Misunderstood is an outstanding and compelling album, delving into the depths of Pinks emotion, tearing apart every misconception and allowing the listener to feel the songs with raw emotion, something which is rare in music at the moment.
Teaming up with one of the best song writers and producers in modern music Linda Perry (of 4NonBlondes and Christina Agruleria's Stripped album)Pink managed to deliver one of the most amazing albums of the past 5 or 10 years.
The album combines numerous sorts songs that include describing Pinks childhood and upbringing, such as Family Portrait and My Vietnam. Describing her rise to fame Don't Let Me Get Me and 18 Wheeler. It also contains a few party tracks, just to keep those who conform happy with Get The Party Started and Respect, none the less they are totally owned by Pink.
This was one of the biggest selling albums of the released year and a massive album for pink in terms of success and gaining respect. I've got to be honest, whilst the girl is using her head and reinventing herself Try This (her follow up album) just doesn't even compare and lacks the compassion and time that went into Misunderstood...it also showed in her tours...the Misunderstood tour was intimate and amazing whilst the Try This tour was an arena tour, and whilst excellent it just didn't touch the intimate gig for avid Pink fans.
Anyhow, buy this outstanding album, its a must have for any CD collection!
Absolutely 5/5 (hopefully she'll hook up with her idol Linda Perry again)!!!!

i know it's old.., 09 Sep 2005
Yes this album was released years and years ago, but a few minutes ago I realised how you really define great music. The fact that I was able to put this CD - which I got at least 2 or 3 years ago - on and love it just as much as i did then surely shows it's an album you must have! I listened to it constantly after I bought it but lately it's been a bit pushed aside by all the other new CD's I've purchased. But Pink's second album has proved itself to me - it never goes out of date. Songs like the beautiful Eventually and Lonely Girl are still just as good, Just Like A Pill is equally catchy and Misery, probably my surprise favourite of the album, still blows me away with its fantastic melody (it's a duet with Stephen Tyler.)
If you like Try This but haven't got this album then buy it, I don't know if it's better but it's DEFINITELY as good!

absalutly brilliant, 02 Nov 2004
brilliant album, great songs especially just like the pill and don't let me get me.don't stop playing it

Also known as the "rune" album because of the medieval symbols adorning its cover, Led Zeppelin's fourth album, released in 1971, turned them from mere superstars into giant behemoths of the rock world. On tracks like "Black Dog", "Misty Mountain Hop", and "Rock and Roll", the combination of Robert Plant's banshee wails and Jimmy Page's frenetic guitar playing forever altered the stylistic bent of hard rock music. And the foreboding "When the Levee Breaks" demonstrated that Zeppelin could indeed play the blues fairly straight if they so desired. Still, everything here ultimately took a back seat to the album's (and, ultimately, the band's) magnum opus--the expertly constructed and deftly executed classic, "Stairway to Heaven". --Billy Altman

Start with this and then buy the back catalogue, 01 Nov 2008
This is probably the best compilation album of Stevie's work and that's great but I urge you all to use this as a taster of his work, there is lots of it and if you buy anything before 1980 you will love it if you like this. Unfortunately he's done nothing of real note after the 1970's and that was where his key work was done. The trilogy of talking book, innvervisions and Songs in the key of life are treasures to be explored in their won right and you should all do so, personally although songs in the key of life is seen as his masterpiece it was a double album brain dump of everything he was working on and contains material that is weaker than the shorter talking book and innvervisions, with Innvervisions representing his finest (non compilation) album in my opinion, with perhaps Living for the City my favourite song of Stevie's.

So to conclude a brilliant compliation of the highlights of a genious career which will ease you into the back catalogue and allow you to uncover the gems that lie therein for yourselves.

Brillant, 04 Jan 2008
Bought this cd a few weeks ago and just can't stop listening to it. Whatever mode i am in, it cheers me up and makes me smile great album really worth getting.

ESSENTIAL STEVIE WONDER, 03 May 2006
Stevie Wonder (born Steveland Judkins Morris) began singing in a choir with his mother and siblings at a very early age at the Whitestone Baptist Church, which lay in his hometown of Saginaw.

By the age of 10, Stevie Wonder was a child prodigy. He proved a master on the piano, harmonica and drums and was adept at poetry and song-writing. Stevie was soon recommended by John Glover (who he was extensivley working with at the time) to Ronnie White, then a member of the fantastic, Smokey Robinson And The Miracles, who were signed to Detroits, Tamla Motown Records, founded by Berry Gordy who was instantly astounded by this child genius.

Dubbed Little Stevie Wonder in his early career, he was rapidly signed to Motown Records, home to some of the most important names in the history of black music including Diana Ross and Marvin Gaye. It was clear from an early age that Stevie Wonder indeed was a deeply gifted singer/songwriter and muscian.

Fingertips, released in 1963, proved an exhilirating masterpiece. Fingertips was virtually a harmonica instrumental but its just so totally infectious and caught onto the public like a magnet. Fingertips quickly catapulted to the top of the U.S charts and became the first in a long line of classics.

It was clearly his Motown work that remained some of his most popular and compelling output. The vibrant, Uptight (Everything's Alright) was a highly infectious affair as was the more sparse production of Yesterme-Yesteryou-Yesterday. The rolling undertones of playful funk on the classic, Signed, Sealed, Delivered (I'm Yours) were three classics that perharps were pure examples of how Stevie Wonder gradually adapted to more Pop styles where his work still vastly contained elements of traditional black rhythm and blues but was able to cross boundaries and break down many racial barriers (much in the way Diana Ross had). Though commercial in each of the tracks content, they all still firmly retained that earthy, soulful style, owing much to Stevies credible and unique vocal style.

Stevie proved to be a masterful lyric writer and conveyed an effortless flair for ballads such as on the passionate, timeless, My Cherie Amour (written with Henry Cosby) and the more subtle and profound, A Place In The Sun.

Like Marvin gaye, his work steadily progressed from the formulaic sounds of Motown to more creative, artistic and indepth material, releasing a string of quality studio albums throughout the 1970's. The startling Superstition was a sharp, nifty, funky number where Stevies voice effectivley cuts through the stark musical arrangements. He delivered a more anthemic message on the compelling, Higher Ground.

The awesome, Living For The City, was an exciting, severn-minute epic which echoed the restrictions and perils of ghetto life. Much of his work steered more into profound political and social issues that perfectly captured contemporary times and deservedly gained wide acknowledgement from critics.

Like Diana Ross (a close friend of the divas and he'd also written the dazzling compostion, Too Shy To Say for her 1977 studio album, Baby It's Me) his work eventually settled into the more Adult-Contemporary market that occupied the lower reaches of the charts yet fully remained an A-list novelty act. Such saccharine numbers like I Just Called To Say I Love You, may have become big cross-atlantic hits but this type of material lacks the dynamic of some of his earlier work.

Even so, Stevie Wonder continues to this day to enjoy a large and loyal following. This being the definitive collection of Stevie Wonders work makes it essential to any serious Soul/R&B/Motown collection.




The definitive Steve Wonder htis collection...for now..., 06 Nov 2003
The first collection of Stevie Wonder hits came out in 1968, when he was still a teenager. Of course, as a pre-teen "Little" Stevie gave Motown its first #1 album. In retrospect 1968 turned out to be a pivotal year in Wonder's career, which began covering Ray Charles songs and whose first hit "Fingertips, Part 2" actually came as a pre-teen, because that was the year he finally started writing most of the songs on his album (e.g., "My Cherie Amour"). The Wonder years definitively come in the early Seventies when he was putting out albums like "Music of My Mind," "Talking Book," "Innervisions," and "Songs in the Key of Life." This explains why the middle part of this collection is the best. Stevie Wonder is one of those artists where an album like this presenting his best work should give you impetus to go check out his best albums. Certainly there are artists where a good hits collection is all you need to have in your music library, but Stevie Wonder would not be one of those artists whose distinctive blend of odd riffs, incessant modulations and unpredictable melodies take advantage of his three-octave range. Yes, if you have but one Stevie Wonder album "The Definitive Collection" would be the one to get, but you should also explore at least the middle pair of the above referenced quartet.

The best Stevie Wonder compilation, 12 Oct 2003
It is easy to be confused by Stevie Wonder compilations. In the nineties, a double CD was released in America titled Song review, while a single CD was released in Britain with the same title and artwork. More recently, a single CD was released in America titled Definitive collection, so (conversely) a double CD was released in Britain with the same title and artwork. This British double CD is much better than the earlier American double CD titled Song review, which had fewer tracks and missed out some important songs. Indeed, this is the best compilation of Stevie's music that I've seen. Even on two CD's, it is not possible to include every Stevie Wonder recording worth hearing, but all the big hits in Britain and America are here.

You probably have your own favorites. I particularly like You are the sunshine of my life, For once in my life, Yester-me yester-you yesterday, Living for the city, I just called to say I love you, Sir Duke, A place in the sun, Lately and Happy birthday. Other classics (also excellent) include Superstition, I wish, Isn't she lovely, Ebony and ivory (with Paul McCartney), Never had a dream come true, Uptight and so many others.

If you only want one collection of Stevie Wonder music, this is by far the best. If you want to build a collection of his music, this is a great starting point.

Well done America!, 11 Aug 2008
Disc 1:
1. Vision of Love. 10/10
2. Love Takes Time. 10/10
3. Someday. 10/10
4. I Don't Wanna Cry. 10/10
5. Emotions. 10/10
6. Can't Let Go. 8/10
7. Maake It Happen. 10/10
8. I'll Be There. 9/10
9. Dreamlover. 10/10
10. Hero. 10/10
11. Without You. 10/10
12. Anytime You Need A Friend. 9/10
13. Endless Love. 8/10
14. Fantasy. 10/10

Disc 2:
1. One Sweet Day. 8/10
2. Always Be My Baby. 10/10
3. Forever. 9/10
4. Underneath The Stars. 10/10
5. Honey. 10/10
6. Butterfly. 10/10
7. My All. 10/10
8. Sweetheart. 10/10
9. When You Believe. 10/10
10. I Still Believe. 10/10
11. Heartbreaker. 10/10
12. Thank God I Found You. 10/10
13. Can't Take That Away (Mariah's Theme). 10/10
14. Against All Odds (Take A Look At Me Now). 10/10
15. All I Want For Christmas Is You (2001 Version). 10/10

OVERALL GRADE: 10/10
Mariah is absolutely brilliant, more powerful than Whitney, more soulful than Celine, and, obviously, better than Britney. AMAZING!


They're all amazing., 12 May 2008
wow.
America should be proud to have such a talent.
Not a weak song on this greatest hits.
Absolutely classic.
Why can't britain have music like this??

The Definitive Mariah Collection - Defiantly One To Own., 03 May 2008
A chronicled collection of all Mariah's greatest hits throughout the years, and some extra stuff thrown in on the way, i mean let's face it everyone knows that Mariah's got one of the best back catalogues of all time, and the voice to match, so it was bound to be an easy success. On this album Mariah does not miss anything out, it's all here, all 2 discs of it, the definitive collection, it highlights each albums hit singles from 1990, appropriately opening with Mariah's first single `Vision Of Love' to 1999 the 'Rainbow' era, so basically you get the 90s Mariah. Overall it's just really inspiring music, that you'll want to listen to for years to come.


Greatest Hits, 04 Nov 2007
This album is great you must buy this album if you are a new mariah fan or a huge fan still great album best tracks are fantasy honey my all heart breaker and well the rest of the album! 10/10

corporate rubbish, 23 Oct 2006
i carnt believe people still listen to this kind of trash,just like x factor on t.v,i know everbody is different but come on,i would regard myself as a grunge fan but i have a varied music collection,the beetles,radiohead,sam and dave,level 42,to name afew.
dont fund this diva as all she does is rip off everybody elses songs,do yourself a favour and listen to motown or 60s soul and see what real music is

The peak of perfection., 10 Oct 2008
Can anybody think of many double albums on which every track is even 'good' let alone a master work? They are very few and far between as the majority of them just go on for far to long with too much 'filler'. And so we come to SONGS IN THE KEY OF LIFE by MR. Stevland Morris.
After the masterpiece which was INNERVISIONS in 1973, Stevie Wonder released this magnum-opus in 1976. Is it as good as INNERVISIONS? The answer is a resounding YES, YES, YES!
Up-lifting and beautiful, happy yet melancholy, it doesn't get any better than this.
Go and buy it.

Stevie's Magnum Opus, 15 Aug 2008
I can't add much to what's already been written here. This is an essential album - though I regard all of the following as essential too:

Talking Book
Innervisions
Fulfillingness First Finale

If you're new to Stevie's work, please don't buy a collection, you'll be missing out on so much!

an absolute classic stevie wonder youre cool!, 20 Jul 2008
this a fantastic double album all the songs are fab i also recommend the albums music of my mind talking book and innervisions and original musiquarium there fantastic buy this you wont regret it!!

"Wonder" ful, 29 Jan 2008
Have the vinyl. Now got the CD and its still timeless. I have many favourites. Love "I am singing" this sums up stevies life in music.
The song writing is 1st class. in my view far better than Lennon/Mccartney ever were. This guy does the lot himself. This album should be in every collection. best selling double album of all time, i believe. Well justified.

Stevie's Best, 10 Jan 2008
Somehow it seems uncool to rate an artist's most succesful album as their best, but I make no apology for doing so in this case.

By 1976, Stevie Wonder had established himself as perhaps the first black artist who could consistantly sell albums in all markets around the world, winning awards, including best album Grammys. It is amazing to think that he had been around for over a decade, but was still only 26 years old. He wrote, sang, played and produced with the maturity of a much older man.

My favorite tracks are 'As' which was the third or fourth single so didn't do too well, but the lyrics are worthy of Smokey. It is the last word in love songs. It was revived a few years back by George Michael and Mary J Blige. I also like 'Village Ghetto Land', a biting social commetary. Then there is 'If It's Magic' a stunningly simple track with just Stevie's voice and a harp. It calls for a wider universal love.

As a teenager, I saved pocket money for weeks to buy the vynil, and replaced it on CD as soon as it was released. Now here it is remastered for next to nothing! People don't realise they are born today!

get any party started!, 05 Apr 2007
in my opinion this is the best of all the pink albums there is, "im not dead" is very good too, but this one is so cool and every single on of the songs is brilliant! pink is so cool!

Excellent from Pink, 05 Aug 2006
On its release this was one of the most popular pop albums of 2002 and its easy to see why.

With the combination of a variety of pop songs, P!nk established herself as the most successful female solo artist of 2002 with this fantastic follow up album to her first solo album `Can't take me home' which was good but not a patch on this one.

The album sold magnificently, 16 million people world wide recognized the singer's talents and purchased the second album of her career, outselling her debut album by 13 million, proving she has established herself as a dominant solo artist in the pop music industry.

The excellent variety adds a greater aspect of taste for the listener. Viewers have the chance to listen to the very party pop song `Get the party started' which was unluckily denied number 1. The song focuses upon Pink going out and having a good time with her friends, viewers will be able to associate with the poppy music and be able to dance with the upbeat rhythm and stylish lyrics.

We have the very affecting `Family Portrait' where Pink changes her choice of singing and goes for very emotional issues about her parents fighting and her desperation for them to resolve their problems so that they can live peacefully as a family. Undeservedly entering at 11 in the U.K. charts the song is slow and Pink sings beautifully to capture the essence of the song.

Pink's first number 1 single came with this album, `Just like a pill' and the artist worked so hard to gain her first smash audiences were extremely happy for her. The song itself focuses upon many love issues as the artist sings about someone causing her pain and the effects it has had upon her. A very slow beat captured by an upbeat chorus adds to a great listen for anyone.

There are many great slow songs including: `Dear Diary' `Gone to California' and `Eventually'
But Pink also includes party pop style songs such as '18 wheeler' and `Respect'

Collaborating with established artists such as Linda Perry and Steven Tyler created even more influential pop music and raised the rising star's status as a now established singer.

This album creates passion for the listener with slow songs but overall creates a very upbeat mood as audiences can appreciate the moods the singer is experiencing. The party songs add a great aspect of Pink's life to her album and audiences have a choice of different styles to listen to.

It's a great album and definitely worth purchasing.

Outstanding, 03 Oct 2005
I also realise this album was released years ago but its that good it compelled me to write a review.
Can't Take Me Home was aimed at a totally different demographic than Misunderstood, reason being that Pink took control of her career and proved LaFace she could make it as a Rock artist.
Misunderstood is an outstanding and compelling album, delving into the depths of Pinks emotion, tearing apart every misconception and allowing the listener to feel the songs with raw emotion, something which is rare in music at the moment.
Teaming up with one of the best song writers and producers in modern music Linda Perry (of 4NonBlondes and Christina Agruleria's Stripped album)Pink managed to deliver one of the most amazing albums of the past 5 or 10 years.
The album combines numerous sorts songs that include describing Pinks childhood and upbringing, such as Family Portrait and My Vietnam. Describing her rise to fame Don't Let Me Get Me and 18 Wheeler. It also contains a few party tracks, just to keep those who conform happy with Get The Party Started and Respect, none the less they are totally owned by Pink.
This was one of the biggest selling albums of the released year and a massive album for pink in terms of success and gaining respect. I've got to be honest, whilst the girl is using her head and reinventing herself Try This (her follow up album) just doesn't even compare and lacks the compassion and time that went into Misunderstood...it also showed in her tours...the Misunderstood tour was intimate and amazing whilst the Try This tour was an arena tour, and whilst excellent it just didn't touch the intimate gig for avid Pink fans.
Anyhow, buy this outstanding album, its a must have for any CD collection!
Absolutely 5/5 (hopefully she'll hook up with her idol Linda Perry again)!!!!

i know it's old.., 09 Sep 2005
Yes this album was released years and years ago, but a few minutes ago I realised how you really define great music. The fact that I was able to put this CD - which I got at least 2 or 3 years ago - on and love it just as much as i did then surely shows it's an album you must have! I listened to it constantly after I bought it but lately it's been a bit pushed aside by all the other new CD's I've purchased. But Pink's second album has proved itself to me - it never goes out of date. Songs like the beautiful Eventually and Lonely Girl are still just as good, Just Like A Pill is equally catchy and Misery, probably my surprise favourite of the album, still blows me away with its fantastic melody (it's a duet with Stephen Tyler.)
If you like Try This but haven't got this album then buy it, I don't know if it's better but it's DEFINITELY as good!

absalutly brilliant, 02 Nov 2004
brilliant album, great songs especially just like the pill and don't let me get me.don't stop playing it

my favourite rock album ever!!, 02 Oct 2008
one word amazeing stairway to heaven alone!! fantastic album no 1 rocks like zep jimmy page one of the best guitarists ever along with david gilmour but my favourite is jimi hendrix electric ladyland wow!! buy this album classic rightly so!!

Deserves it's reputation, 29 Sep 2008
This album has a reputation as being one of the all time great rock albums. And it totally deserves it.

It is the product of a band at the height of their powers.

Stairway to Heaven is the best known track and is so familiar that we shouldn't take notice of it anymore. However even at this remove it isn't possible to hear the opening bars without a frisson of glee going through me.
Black Dog is another classic "Rock" tune.

There are also a few excellent folk influenced songs on the album, such as "Battle of Evermore" and "Going to California" and these demonstrate the band's versatility.

And the epic is rounded off with the dark and threatening "When the Levee Breaks", which for me has even more resonance since Katrina hit New Orleans a few years ago.

Quite simply you must have this album.

Led Zeppelins most famous album all because of the wicked Stairway to Heaven., 20 Jun 2008
This album is a classic and and includes the famous and overplayed song Stairway To Heaven which is an epic song. Everyone is saying Stairway To heaven is the best but i think it's The Battle Of Evermore inspired by the lord of the rings books (or something like that). Every song is a classic from the rocker Rock N' Roll to the slow acoustic Going To California this is a rock masterpiece by Led Zeppelin. A must have in any music fans collection you cant be without it. Long live led zeppelin.

Takes me back to the gooid old days...., 22 Mar 2008
Lets face it for those in the know ... this is undoutedly one of the, if not the best albums coming from Zeppelin.... time to rock

Yup, 21 Feb 2008
wow $h!t man like ouch baby it's hootchy cootchy time totally outside the envelope red hot mamas I'm coming home babe killer album like SO elemental, dude. Awesome to the power of infinity, man.

Well I liked it anyway.

She's been hailed for her multi-octave vocal range--a tool that sometimes detracts from her pop recordings, but actually works quite beautifully in the context of this charming holiday collection. Fans will surely approve of Carey's renditions of slinky secular songs like "Christmas (Baby, Please Come Home)" and a nicely subdued "All I Want for Christmas Is You". But where she really surprises is in her unadorned delivery of traditional carols, highlighted by "Silent Night" (which she sings quietly, avoiding the temptation to wail those high notes) and "Jesus, Oh What a Wonderful Child". Merry Christmas is a must for die-hards and a pleasant surprise for the unconverted. --David Sprague

Start with this and then buy the back catalogue, 01 Nov 2008
This is probably the best compilation album of Stevie's work and that's great but I urge you all to use this as a taster of his work, there is lots of it and if you buy anything before 1980 you will love it if you like this. Unfortunately he's done nothing of real note after the 1970's and that was where his key work was done. The trilogy of talking book, innvervisions and Songs in the key of life are treasures to be explored in their won right and you should all do so, personally although songs in the key of life is seen as his masterpiece it was a double album brain dump of everything he was working on and contains material that is weaker than the shorter talking book and innvervisions, with Innvervisions representing his finest (non compilation) album in my opinion, with perhaps Living for the City my favourite song of Stevie's.

So to conclude a brilliant compliation of the highlights of a genious career which will ease you into the back catalogue and allow you to uncover the gems that lie therein for yourselves.

Brillant, 04 Jan 2008
Bought this cd a few weeks ago and just can't stop listening to it. Whatever mode i am in, it cheers me up and makes me smile great album really worth getting.

ESSENTIAL STEVIE WONDER, 03 May 2006
Stevie Wonder (born Steveland Judkins Morris) began singing in a choir with his mother and siblings at a very early age at the Whitestone Baptist Church, which lay in his hometown of Saginaw.

By the age of 10, Stevie Wonder was a child prodigy. He proved a master on the piano, harmonica and drums and was adept at poetry and song-writing. Stevie was soon recommended by John Glover (who he was extensivley working with at the time) to Ronnie White, then a member of the fantastic, Smokey Robinson And The Miracles, who were signed to Detroits, Tamla Motown Records, founded by Berry Gordy who was instantly astounded by this child genius.

Dubbed Little Stevie Wonder in his early career, he was rapidly signed to Motown Records, home to some of the most important names in the history of black music including Diana Ross and Marvin Gaye. It was clear from an early age that Stevie Wonder indeed was a deeply gifted singer/songwriter and muscian.

Fingertips, released in 1963, proved an exhilirating masterpiece. Fingertips was virtually a harmonica instrumental but its just so totally infectious and caught onto the public like a magnet. Fingertips quickly catapulted to the top of the U.S charts and became the first in a long line of classics.

It was clearly his Motown work that remained some of his most popular and compelling output. The vibrant, Uptight (Everything's Alright) was a highly infectious affair as was the more sparse production of Yesterme-Yesteryou-Yesterday. The rolling undertones of playful funk on the classic, Signed, Sealed, Delivered (I'm Yours) were three classics that perharps were pure examples of how Stevie Wonder gradually adapted to more Pop styles where his work still vastly contained elements of traditional black rhythm and blues but was able to cross boundaries and break down many racial barriers (much in the way Diana Ross had). Though commercial in each of the tracks content, they all still firmly retained that earthy, soulful style, owing much to Stevies credible and unique vocal style.

Stevie proved to be a masterful lyric writer and conveyed an effortless flair for ballads such as on the passionate, timeless, My Cherie Amour (written with Henry Cosby) and the more subtle and profound, A Place In The Sun.

Like Marvin gaye, his work steadily progressed from the formulaic sounds of Motown to more creative, artistic and indepth material, releasing a string of quality studio albums throughout the 1970's. The startling Superstition was a sharp, nifty, funky number where Stevies voice effectivley cuts through the stark musical arrangements. He delivered a more anthemic message on the compelling, Higher Ground.

The awesome, Living For The City, was an exciting, severn-minute epic which echoed the restrictions and perils of ghetto life. Much of his work steered more into profound political and social issues that perfectly captured contemporary times and deservedly gained wide acknowledgement from critics.

Like Diana Ross (a close friend of the divas and he'd also written the dazzling compostion, Too Shy To Say for her 1977 studio album, Baby It's Me) his work eventually settled into the more Adult-Contemporary market that occupied the lower reaches of the charts yet fully remained an A-list novelty act. Such saccharine numbers like I Just Called To Say I Love You, may have become big cross-atlantic hits but this type of material lacks the dynamic of some of his earlier work.

Even so, Stevie Wonder continues to this day to enjoy a large and loyal following. This being the definitive collection of Stevie Wonders work makes it essential to any serious Soul/R&B/Motown collection.




The definitive Steve Wonder htis collection...for now..., 06 Nov 2003
The first collection of Stevie Wonder hits came out in 1968, when he was still a teenager. Of course, as a pre-teen "Little" Stevie gave Motown its first #1 album. In retrospect 1968 turned out to be a pivotal year in Wonder's career, which began covering Ray Charles songs and whose first hit "Fingertips, Part 2" actually came as a pre-teen, because that was the year he finally started writing most of the songs on his album (e.g., "My Cherie Amour"). The Wonder years definitively come in the early Seventies when he was putting out albums like "Music of My Mind," "Talking Book," "Innervisions," and "Songs in the Key of Life." This explains why the middle part of this collection is the best. Stevie Wonder is one of those artists where an album like this presenting his best work should give you impetus to go check out his best albums. Certainly there are artists where a good hits collection is all you need to have in your music library, but Stevie Wonder would not be one of those artists whose distinctive blend of odd riffs, incessant modulations and unpredictable melodies take advantage of his three-octave range. Yes, if you have but one Stevie Wonder album "The Definitive Collection" would be the one to get, but you should also explore at least the middle pair of the above referenced quartet.

The best Stevie Wonder compilation, 12 Oct 2003
It is easy to be confused by Stevie Wonder compilations. In the nineties, a double CD was released in America titled Song review, while a single CD was released in Britain with the same title and artwork. More recently, a single CD was released in America titled Definitive collection, so (conversely) a double CD was released in Britain with the same title and artwork. This British double CD is much better than the earlier American double CD titled Song review, which had fewer tracks and missed out some important songs. Indeed, this is the best compilation of Stevie's music that I've seen. Even on two CD's, it is not possible to include every Stevie Wonder recording worth hearing, but all the big hits in Britain and America are here.

You probably have your own favorites. I particularly like You are the sunshine of my life, For once in my life, Yester-me yester-you yesterday, Living for the city, I just called to say I love you, Sir Duke, A place in the sun, Lately and Happy birthday. Other classics (also excellent) include Superstition, I wish, Isn't she lovely, Ebony and ivory (with Paul McCartney), Never had a dream come true, Uptight and so many others.

If you only want one collection of Stevie Wonder music, this is by far the best. If you want to build a collection of his music, this is a great starting point.

Well done America!, 11 Aug 2008
Disc 1:
1. Vision of Love. 10/10
2. Love Takes Time. 10/10
3. Someday. 10/10
4. I Don't Wanna Cry. 10/10
5. Emotions. 10/10
6. Can't Let Go. 8/10
7. Maake It Happen. 10/10
8. I'll Be There. 9/10
9. Dreamlover. 10/10
10. Hero. 10/10
11. Without You. 10/10
12. Anytime You Need A Friend. 9/10
13. Endless Love. 8/10
14. Fantasy. 10/10

Disc 2:
1. One Sweet Day. 8/10
2. Always Be My Baby. 10/10
3. Forever. 9/10
4. Underneath The Stars. 10/10
5. Honey. 10/10
6. Butterfly. 10/10
7. My All. 10/10
8. Sweetheart. 10/10
9. When You Believe. 10/10
10. I Still Believe. 10/10
11. Heartbreaker. 10/10
12. Thank God I Found You. 10/10
13. Can't Take That Away (Mariah's Theme). 10/10
14. Against All Odds (Take A Look At Me Now). 10/10
15. All I Want For Christmas Is You (2001 Version). 10/10

OVERALL GRADE: 10/10
Mariah is absolutely brilliant, more powerful than Whitney, more soulful than Celine, and, obviously, better than Britney. AMAZING!


They're all amazing., 12 May 2008
wow.
America should be proud to have such a talent.
Not a weak song on this greatest hits.
Absolutely classic.
Why can't britain have music like this??

The Definitive Mariah Collection - Defiantly One To Own., 03 May 2008
A chronicled collection of all Mariah's greatest hits throughout the years, and some extra stuff thrown in on the way, i mean let's face it everyone knows that Mariah's got one of the best back catalogues of all time, and the voice to match, so it was bound to be an easy success. On this album Mariah does not miss anything out, it's all here, all 2 discs of it, the definitive collection, it highlights each albums hit singles from 1990, appropriately opening with Mariah's first single `Vision Of Love' to 1999 the 'Rainbow' era, so basically you get the 90s Mariah. Overall it's just really inspiring music, that you'll want to listen to for years to come.


Greatest Hits, 04 Nov 2007
This album is great you must buy this album if you are a new mariah fan or a huge fan still great album best tracks are fantasy honey my all heart breaker and well the rest of the album! 10/10

corporate rubbish, 23 Oct 2006
i carnt believe people still listen to this kind of trash,just like x factor on t.v,i know everbody is different but come on,i would regard myself as a grunge fan but i have a varied music collection,the beetles,radiohead,sam and dave,level 42,to name afew.
dont fund this diva as all she does is rip off everybody elses songs,do yourself a favour and listen to motown or 60s soul and see what real music is

The peak of perfection., 10 Oct 2008
Can anybody think of many double albums on which every track is even 'good' let alone a master work? They are very few and far between as the majority of them just go on for far to long with too much 'filler'. And so we come to SONGS IN THE KEY OF LIFE by MR. Stevland Morris.
After the masterpiece which was INNERVISIONS in 1973, Stevie Wonder released this magnum-opus in 1976. Is it as good as INNERVISIONS? The answer is a resounding YES, YES, YES!
Up-lifting and beautiful, happy yet melancholy, it doesn't get any better than this.
Go and buy it.

Stevie's Magnum Opus, 15 Aug 2008
I can't add much to what's already been written here. This is an essential album - though I regard all of the following as essential too:

Talking Book
Innervisions
Fulfillingness First Finale

If you're new to Stevie's work, please don't buy a collection, you'll be missing out on so much!

an absolute classic stevie wonder youre cool!, 20 Jul 2008
this a fantastic double album all the songs are fab i also recommend the albums music of my mind talking book and innervisions and original musiquarium there fantastic buy this you wont regret it!!

"Wonder" ful, 29 Jan 2008
Have the vinyl. Now got the CD and its still timeless. I have many favourites. Love "I am singing" this sums up stevies life in music.
The song writing is 1st class. in my view far better than Lennon/Mccartney ever were. This guy does the lot himself. This album should be in every collection. best selling double album of all time, i believe. Well justified.

Stevie's Best, 10 Jan 2008
Somehow it seems uncool to rate an artist's most succesful album as their best, but I make no apology for doing so in this case.

By 1976, Stevie Wonder had established himself as perhaps the first black artist who could consistantly sell albums in all markets around the world, winning awards, including best album Grammys. It is amazing to think that he had been around for over a decade, but was still only 26 years old. He wrote, sang, played and produced with the maturity of a much older man.

My favorite tracks are 'As' which was the third or fourth single so didn't do too well, but the lyrics are worthy of Smokey. It is the last word in love songs. It was revived a few years back by George Michael and Mary J Blige. I also like 'Village Ghetto Land', a biting social commetary. Then there is 'If It's Magic' a stunningly simple track with just Stevie's voice and a harp. It calls for a wider universal love.

As a teenager, I saved pocket money for weeks to buy the vynil, and replaced it on CD as soon as it was released. Now here it is remastered for next to nothing! People don't realise they are born today!

get any party started!, 05 Apr 2007
in my opinion this is the best of all the pink albums there is, "im not dead" is very good too, but this one is so cool and every single on of the songs is brilliant! pink is so cool!

Excellent from Pink, 05 Aug 2006
On its release this was one of the most popular pop albums of 2002 and its easy to see why.

With the combination of a variety of pop songs, P!nk established herself as the most successful female solo artist of 2002 with this fantastic follow up album to her first solo album `Can't take me home' which was good but not a patch on this one.

The album sold magnificently, 16 million people world wide recognized the singer's talents and purchased the second album of her career, outselling her debut album by 13 million, proving she has established herself as a dominant solo artist in the pop music industry.

The excellent variety adds a greater aspect of taste for the listener. Viewers have the chance to listen to the very party pop song `Get the party started' which was unluckily denied number 1. The song focuses upon Pink going out and having a good time with her friends, viewers will be able to associate with the poppy music and be able to dance with the upbeat rhythm and stylish lyrics.

We have the very affecting `Family Portrait' where Pink changes her choice of singing and goes for very emotional issues about her parents fighting and her desperation for them to resolve their problems so that they can live peacefully as a family. Undeservedly entering at 11 in the U.K. charts the song is slow and Pink sings beautifully to capture the essence of the song.

Pink's first number 1 single came with this album, `Just like a pill' and the artist worked so hard to gain her first smash audiences were extremely happy for her. The song itself focuses upon many love issues as the artist sings about someone causing her pain and the effects it has had upon her. A very slow beat captured by an upbeat chorus adds to a great listen for anyone.

There are many great slow songs including: `Dear Diary' `Gone to California' and `Eventually'
But Pink also includes party pop style songs such as '18 wheeler' and `Respect'

Collaborating with established artists such as Linda Perry and Steven Tyler created even more influential pop music and raised the rising star's status as a now established singer.

This album creates passion for the listener with slow songs but overall creates a very upbeat mood as audiences can appreciate the moods the singer is experiencing. The party songs add a great aspect of Pink's life to her album and audiences have a choice of different styles to listen to.

It's a great album and definitely worth purchasing.

Outstanding, 03 Oct 2005
I also realise this album was released years ago but its that good it compelled me to write a review.
Can't Take Me Home was aimed at a totally different demographic than Misunderstood, reason being that Pink took control of her career and proved LaFace she could make it as a Rock artist.
Misunderstood is an outstanding and compelling album, delving into the depths of Pinks emotion, tearing apart every misconception and allowing the listener to feel the songs with raw emotion, something which is rare in music at the moment.
Teaming up with one of the best song writers and producers in modern music Linda Perry (of 4NonBlondes and Christina Agruleria's Stripped album)Pink managed to deliver one of the most amazing albums of the past 5 or 10 years.
The album combines numerous sorts songs that include describing Pinks childhood and upbringing, such as Family Portrait and My Vietnam. Describing her rise to fame Don't Let Me Get Me and 18 Wheeler. It also contains a few party tracks, just to keep those who conform happy with Get The Party Started and Respect, none the less they are totally owned by Pink.
This was one of the biggest selling albums of the released year and a massive album for pink in terms of success and gaining respect. I've got to be honest, whilst the girl is using her head and reinventing herself Try This (her follow up album) just doesn't even compare and lacks the compassion and time that went into Misunderstood...it also showed in her tours...the Misunderstood tour was intimate and amazing whilst the Try This tour was an arena tour, and whilst excellent it just didn't touch the intimate gig for avid Pink fans.
Anyhow, buy this outstanding album, its a must have for any CD collection!
Absolutely 5/5 (hopefully she'll hook up with her idol Linda Perry again)!!!!

i know it's old.., 09 Sep 2005
Yes this album was released years and years ago, but a few minutes ago I realised how you really define great music. The fact that I was able to put this CD - which I got at least 2 or 3 years ago - on and love it just as much as i did then surely shows it's an album you must have! I listened to it constantly after I bought it but lately it's been a bit pushed aside by all the other new CD's I've purchased. But Pink's second album has proved itself to me - it never goes out of date. Songs like the beautiful Eventually and Lonely Girl are still just as good, Just Like A Pill is equally catchy and Misery, probably my surprise favourite of the album, still blows me away with its fantastic melody (it's a duet with Stephen Tyler.)
If you like Try This but haven't got this album then buy it, I don't know if it's better but it's DEFINITELY as good!

absalutly brilliant, 02 Nov 2004
brilliant album, great songs especially just like the pill and don't let me get me.don't stop playing it

my favourite rock album ever!!, 02 Oct 2008
one word amazeing stairway to heaven alone!! fantastic album no 1 rocks like zep jimmy page one of the best guitarists ever along with david gilmour but my favourite is jimi hendrix electric ladyland wow!! buy this album classic rightly so!!

Deserves it's reputation, 29 Sep 2008
This album has a reputation as being one of the all time great rock albums. And it totally deserves it.

It is the product of a band at the height of their powers.

Stairway to Heaven is the best known track and is so familiar that we shouldn't take notice of it anymore. However even at this remove it isn't possible to hear the opening bars without a frisson of glee going through me.
Black Dog is another classic "Rock" tune.

There are also a few excellent folk influenced songs on the album, such as "Battle of Evermore" and "Going to California" and these demonstrate the band's versatility.

And the ep