Bill Withers – Greatest Hits (Vinyl LP)

The antithesis of the sweaty R&B shouter that prowled the edge of stages, Bill Withers dealt in mellow, downhome-styled soul and emotional vulnerability, qualities that come to the fore on his seminal 1981 Greatest Hits collection. Evidence of Withers’ crossover appeal is found not only via his chart successes on both the pop and R&B charts, but in the DNA of his best work. There’s not one forgettable moment on Greatest Hits.

Classics like the Grammy-winning “Ain’t No Sunshine” and devotional “Grandma’s Hands,” showcase the vocalist’s incredible breath control, folksy drawl, and restrained phrasing. They also indicate his penchant for converting biographical experience into eminently catchy combinations of pop, gospel, blues, and soul. “Use Me” rides a riveting clarinet riff and urban tempo to express the double-edged feelings associated with an edgy relationship.

On the loping “Who Is He (And What Is He to You?),” Withers again splits the bitter and sweet. For the Latin-tinged “Lovely Day,” Withers holds a single note for a whopping 18 seconds. And with “Lean on Me,” the West Virginian created a timeless masterpiece that stands tall in the American songbook.

1. Just The Two Of Us
2. Use Me
3. Ain’t No Sunshine
4. Lovely Day
5. I Want To Spend The Night
6. Soul Shadows
7. Lean On Me
8. Grandma’s Hands
9. Hello Like Before
10. Who Is He What Is He To You