Very Best of the Shirelles

The Very Best of the Shirelles

“These dollies were the template for the too numerous to recount girl groups to follow. Check how Diana Ross and the Supremes named them as an influence, Ronnie Spector said seeing them make it gave her hope for the Ronettes, and so on. They have more than sixteen great songs in their discography, but this is a very pure, sweet distillation of their sound and aura. Shirley Owens was one of the greatest singers for her simplicity in delivery, vulnerability just under the surface, and filled with an emotional life that gave these pop confections an extra spice that made them really burst. Of course, having material from the likes of Goffin/King and Bacharach/David to perform would give just about anyone a leg up, but listen to how much sensuality she packs into “Welcome Home Baby,” yearni” read more

500 CDs You Must Own Before You Die! (500 music items)

"This New Jersey quartet went from doo-wop dollies to pop sophisticates in their short but exceedingly sweet early-’60s prime. Of course, having songwriters such as Goffin/King and Bacharach/David didn’t hurt, either. Standout track: “Will You Still Love Me Tomorrow”"