Clyde McPhatter - The Ballads of Clyde McPhatter

2021 CD collection.

"We can't rewrite music history, but we would like to shine a light on a great, influential and underrated artist: Clyde McPhatter. -Whoever is interested in the history of American pop music will know the Drifters and the Dominoes - two formations, characterized and famous for the fantastic voice of the lead singer: Clyde McPhatter. -With two simultaneously released CD documentaries on Bear Family we honor the great life achievement of an important crossover artist, who has significantly influenced genres such as gospel, doo-wop, rhythm & blues and pop. -Our 'Clyde McPhatter Rocks' CD features Clyde's rousing up-tempo numbers; now here is the compilation of his most moving ballads on CD, carried by one of the most beautiful black voices of her time!".

Extensive liner notes by Chicago expert Bill Dahl, detailed richly illustrated booklet and premier sound quality. Few soulful voices of the 1950s and '60s could caress a ballad the way Clyde McPhatter did, seemingly without even trying. He could make any song soar heaven-bound with his gospel-soaked curlicues and unpredictable twists and turns, helping greatly to define the concept of soul music. Bear Family's bountiful collection of the rhythm and blues legend's ballad output takes an in-depth look at his seminal Atlantic Records years, focusing on his solo period but also including a handful of dreamiest entries as lead singer of The Drifters as well as both sides of his duet single with Ruth Brown. Clyde's Treasure Of Love, the wrenching Without Love (There Is Nothing), and Just To Hold My Hand were major solo hits for Atlantic. There's also a generous helping of McPhatter's subsequent M-G-M and Mercury output. Clyde will always rank with soul music royalty-and these majestic ballads testify as to why he's such a regal figure.