Wonderful World - The Hits! [VINYL]

20 track - limited edition 180g virgin vinyl - includes specially prepared essay by music writer Brian Morton. Songwriter and performer Sam Cooke (1931-1964) was one of the most popular and influential singers to emerge in the late '50s. Much like his contemporary Ray Charles, Cooke successfully synthesized a blend of gospel music and secular themes that provided the early foundation of soul music. Cooke's pure, clear vocals were widely imitated, and his suave, sophisticated image set the style for soul crooners for the next decade. This LP contains 20 of the finest moments and most celebrated songs of Sam Cooke's career. All these fabulous tracks continue to stand the test of time. There is no better proof of Cooke's genius than these soulful, joyous, exuberant, stylish, and passionate recordings. "Sam was the best singer who ever lived, no contest." - Jerry Wexler "A voice clear as water, rich and expansive... bending syllables like staircases in a dream, disappearing under your feet as you try to climb them." - Greil Marcus (US author and music journalist)