The Best of Michael Jackson (Anthology Series)
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| Release Date: |
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| Label: |
Motown / Pgd |
| Rating: |
4.5 |
Description: Chock full of hits and nicely assembled, this two-CD collection focuses on Michael before he left the Motown cocoon, hooked up with Quincy Jones, and changed the sound of black pop with
Off the Wall. Does the relatively safe vibe and the less-than-groundbreaking nature of the music make these songs any less enjoyable or memorable? No way--especially for boomers who grew up with MJ. All the hits are here, from the chirpy smash "Rockin' Robin" to the yearning "Got to Be There" (check those high notes!) and a handful of J5 tracks (chief among them the impassioned "I'll Be There"). For fans of R&B and for Michael-maniacs, this is a must.
--Amy Linden
Tracklist of The Best of Michael Jackson (Anthology Series)
Reviews:
Heaven Sent
I have been a fan of Michael's ever since he began. These songs bring back such good memories. However, I think the J5 songs could have been left out, and replaced with other Michael songs. Either from albums or previously unreleased stuff. Small complaint though. "Love is Here and Now You're Gone" has always been one of my fave songs, I think Mike's version outdoes the Supremes. "We've Got A Good Thing Going" also is a highlight. It suprises me that I still love and want to listen to these songs. The songs taken from the "Forever Michael" album also are great. I would love to see that album on cd with unreleased cuts. I know there has to be some of those lying aroung Motown vaults. Funny how, if I never hear "Billie Jean" again, it's ok with me. But these songs, are the songs of my childhood and preteen years and sound as fresh today as 30 years ago.
Jammin'
Michael was an incredible child prodigy. These 2 CDs I think summs up the reason why the Jackson 5 were so extremely popular and gives the basis for why he himself became the megastar that he became. I was really taken aback while listening to these songs and just couldn't believe someone so young had that amazing ability. I could have cried when I thought about what he has become and then thought about the reason, this wonderful music and all the hard work he had to do at such a very young age. But moving on, some of my favorites are mostly on the 2nd Cd, Music and Me, One Day in Your Life, Happy, Call on Me and many more. The Jackson 5 classics are I'll Be there, Never can say goodbye and an unknown J5 song, Too Late to change the Time (which is wonderful). This compilation is a must for MJ fans and for anyone that wants to hear some great soul music from Motown.
The Early Michael Jackson
I love Michael's motown years. First of all, this is the only comprehensive compilation that summarizes Michael's years at Motown. There are 44-hits that spread over 2 discs. Not only does it have his solo hits, but it also has those Jackson 5 hits. It's a great addition to your Michael Jackson collection. One of my favorites on this collection is "Got To Be There". It also has a lot of unknown songs like "Happy", "Cinderella Stay Awhile", and "One Day In Your Life". The booklet has a lot of liner notes and rare pictures. Buy this in addition to Jackson 5-Ultimate Collection.