The Best Of

Almost persuaded, originally a number one country hit for David Houston, is given a bluesy R+B treatment here. Maybe Etta was inspired to try this by Ray Charles' re-interpretation of country songs, but whatever the reason she did it, the result is impressive. Loving arms, recorded by many singers but generally associated with Elvis Presley, is another inspired cover, as is At last, originally recorded by Glenn Miller.

Etta was first to record I'd rather go blind. In Britain, this became a top twenty UK hit via a cover by the British blues group Chicken Shack. Christine McVie (later of Fleetwood Mac fame) was the lead singer on that single but much as I love Christine's voice, the original version by Etta is superior. Etta's only UK hit of her own came following its use in a TV commercial in 1996 - it made the UK top five and is, of course, the raunchy opening track here, I just wanna make love to you.

Etta had plenty of R+B hits in America, though she only made a limited impact on the main pop charts. Among Etta's R+B hits to be found here are Pushover, Tell Mama and Stop the wedding, all of them excellent.

As an introduction to Etta's music, this is brilliant, especially considering that it is a budget release.


the Best of Etta James is the best!!   August 9, 2002
 46 out of 47 found this review helpful

I bought this record for one track only - 'At last' having heard it in a number of films, but now I am completely hooked on all of the songs.

I didn't realise I would know so many of the other tracks like 'I Just Want To Make Love To You' and 'Leave Your Hat On' but I find myself singing along to each and every one.

This is a thoroughly enjoyable album and a definite must for anyones collection.


Fantastic - a must have for all those a little sentimental   September 14, 2000
 41 out of 41 found this review helpful

This CD is wonderful, I first listened to it whilst visiting family in America, and as soon as it came on I felt so emotional. Etta's wonderful soulful voice with an oldfashioned yet timeless melody in the song 'AT LAST' featured in many films and more to come. I am sure this is bound to bring on some great feelings. Then in the basement just make s you want to dance. I was dancing round the ktichen with my four year old neice and her grandmother, 3 generations all still loving her tunes. For backgound music, to party tunes those Etta fans will be satisfied with this compilation, those new fans should check it out!