Charley Pride Album: “Essential Charley Pride [RCA]”

While this compilation focuses mainly on Charley's hits from 1967-1973, it is definitely a keeper. Two of my favorite lesser-known Pride songs, "I'd Rather Love You" and "A Shoulder to Cry On" (the latter written by fellow country legend Merle Haggard) are included on this great compact disc. Charley's distinctive style rose above "Outlaw" movements and "pop-country" sounds to offer a voice of TRUE country; this CD highlights that fact. Take it from me, I don't think you'll regret purchasing this CD. RCA/BMG has done a better job in recent years of releasing early Pride material; this CD is just one example of that. These aren't cheap, pathetic re-recordings either---these are the ORIGINAL recordings, which are so much better. Whether you're a long-time Charley Pride fan or a newcomer to this legend's music, I doubt you'll be disappointed with this compilation. Give it a listen! It puts 90% of what today is called "country music" to shame.

The early years of Charley Pride were his best, although his voice never lost it's richness even his later work of weaker material. This CD contains 20 Original Recordings of nearly an hour of superb Country Music. Included, are "Just Between You and Me", "A Shoulder to Cry ON", and "All I Have to Offer". There's not a bad track on the disc, although the last number, "You're My Jamaica", is the beignning of the "later" Charley Pride sound, and seems out of place on this collection. Too many Greatest Hits collections are rehashed standards by aging and tired artists.....thankfully, this is not one of those. So, if you want the best collection of original early Charley Pride, look no further. A+

Was ordered for an older person. Came in great condition and she loves it!

Charley Pride in his younger days. Has a higher pitched voice, but great songs, and great singing! Shows the full range of his talent!