worth ordering for Child of Mine

This is classic Carole King. It's worth ordering for the poignant Child of Mine. If you're looking for music for a wedding, or just to reflect on your child's life, this is a touching ballad.

A nice cross-section of music for new King listeners

This collection of Carole King music includes hit singles and other, more eclectic classics, all of which can be heard on other King albums currently available on CD. The success and appeal of Carole King is not easily understood by many individuals. People who know little of her phenominal songwriting success or her prolific recording history are somewhat baffled by her wide-spread appeal, especially in regards to her singing voice. There are some, especially new listeners, who simply cannot overcome the hurdle of hearing a female voice that is not "big", "wide-ranging" or perfectly beautiful. King's voice is not any of the above. However, if one is patient, with repeated and consistent listening, her melodies and simple and heartfelt phrasing soon begin to find a home in one's heart. Very soon afterwards, one finds himself longing for the sincerity of King's "imperfect" performances and the simple directness of her phrasing. I'm sure many of the other 15 million individuals who purchased her album "Tapestry" alone would certainly agree. My only criticism here with this collection is that this is again a repackaging of already very accessible material. Many of these selections can be found on her "Greatest Hits" collection, her boxed-set "Natural Woman: The Ode Collection" or can be heard on one of her two live CDs. Unfortunately, there is nothing new here. But what is here, for one who has not discovered much of King's music, is enough to get one interested in hearing more. It is a fairly interesting cross-section of very early King recordings from the early '70s, with selections from the albums "Writer", "Tapestry", "Music", "Fantasy" and "Wrap Around Joy". Lastly, for those who have often criticized King for not being "deeper" or more analytical in her lyrics, all I can say is that the most profound themes and thoughts are often the simplest of ideas, stated directly and sincerely. In that respect, King scores well lyrically. And finally, for those who can't undertake the challenge of listening to King's singing voice, they should avoid the raw and unpolished vocals of other artists like Bruce Springsteen or Bob Dylan for example, and restrict their listening to others like Placido Domingo or the Lawrence Welk singers.

Don't go near it!

This embarrassingly awful CD is musical pollution. The most obnoxious of the songs is Jazzman. CK's voice sounds like a siren, for crying out loud! I can't believe people buy this! The woman's voice is so unpleasant to listen to and the lyrics are so childish that hearing it makes you want to crawl under your seat with embarrasment. Carole King has as much musical ability as a boat's whistle. PLEASE STAY AWAY FROM THIS TERRIBLE MUSIC!