Search - Whispers :: The Whispers - Greatest Hits

Solid soul

Steven Swain | Rocky Mount, VA USA | 01/16/2003

(5 out of 5 stars)

"For those who may only know R&B legends The Whispers from the Babyface-penned hit "Rock Steady," circa 1987, this collection will be an eye-opener. The Whispers have been making consistent, soulful music for over three decades. The "Greatest Hits" collection covers a good chunk of their best material from the mid 1970s up to the early 1990s. The vocals are always smooth and the musical styles range from Philly soul to disco to electro-funk to quiet storm. It's a historic and excellent look back at what music sounded like before hip-hop became the grammar of R&B music.Highlights include "(Olivia) Lost and Turned Out," a live concert favorite (and possibly the smoothest vocals ever on a song about prostitution), "And The Beat Goes On," a 1980 disco hit sampled by rapper Will Smith in his hit "Miami," the aforementioned "Beat," and the Gary Taylor-penned "Just Gets Better With Time."Some of the tracks are a little dated ("Contageous," "One For the Money") but all possess the careful craftsmanship and understated but soulful vocals that have made The Whispers popular over the years. If you're a casual fan, buy this without hesitation. If you're a serious fan, this is a good place to start."

A major collection from a major group

Timothy R. Sullivan | 01/15/2001

(5 out of 5 stars)

"I've always felt The Whispers were underrated. They can speed it up or slow down and sound equally impressive.Gotta admit "And the Beat Goes On" is one of the all-time best dance songs and I was glad they put the long version on here."Rock Steady" and "It's a Love Thing" are also epic grooves. I also enjoyed the slow ballads, particularly "Lady."Just a great collection."

Just Keep On Lovin' Meeeeeeee......

WILLIE A YOUNG II | Houston, TX. | 06/19/2002

(5 out of 5 stars)

"One of many tight, catchy grooves on a flawless collection of hits from one of the most consistent and beloved soul groups of all times. Led by the outstanding co-lead vocals of Walter and Scotty Scott, The Whispers never miss a beat and their work never sounds dated or embarrassing. "Olivia (Lost and Turned Out)" is another stunner with it it's complex arrangement, intricate harmonies and timeless story of an innocent girl being pimped by a "wolf in lamb's clothing". The Whispers haven't released any new material in several years, but this hits collection is more than able to fill the void until they bless us with another batch of classic soul gems."