Esther Phillips - The Best of Esther Phillips (1990)

This is one of the best collection of songs (16 tracks) recorded by Esther Phillips and represents her work for CTI with selections from her first album such as "From A Whisper To A Scream" all the way to her disco hit "What A Different a day Makes". Esther was gritty, bluesy and knew how to belt a song.
Some of my favorites on this CD include: the funky/gritty "Home Is Where The Hatred Is"; the bluesy laid back cover of "Alone Again Naturally"; the soulful sounding "Do Right Woman, Do Right Man" and "I Got It Bad And That Ain't Good"; the poignant social conscious message in "Disposable Society"; the self reflective "Mr. Bojangles"; the hot disco hit "What A Difference A Day Makes" and "One Night Affair"; and the diso cover of "Unforgettable".
Esther Phillips was one of the hardest working women in the music business during a time when the business was not very kind to woemn. She was able to hold her own and give a command performance whether she was performing in high profile places or lesser known places frequented by hard working regular folks. Esther had a tough life and faced a lot of demons and if you want to get a taste of her music, this would be a great place to start. Esther Phillips will always be fondly remembered for her uinque voice and her "no nonsense" personality!-- Garby Gable