Billy Idil Vh1

Many jazz fans don't realize how long ago Billy Taylor began his career; this French anthology assembles five separate sessions that he led as a young man between 1945 and 1949, as well as one date as a sideman. In 1945 he shows the influence of both Art Tatum and Teddy Wilson in the lightly swinging take of "Night and Day," while his campy approach to "Alexander's Ragtime Band" is rather refreshing. His lyrical solo interpretation of "The Very Thought of You" from 1946 demonstrates his considerable growth as a pianist. Taylor also wrote seven of the songs, which include two versions of his easygoing "Stridin' Down the Champs-Elysees," the flashy blues "Well Taylor-Ed," and two rare vocals by Taylor on the Nat King Cole-like "I Don't Ask Questions, I Just Have Fun" and "So You Think You're Cute"…

One of the world's and Japan's most beloved songwriters and melody makers, and the one and only piano man, Billy Joel. He is back with a live version of "Billy Joel Greatest Hits," which offers an overview of his half-century career with masterful performances from each decade. Based on his "Live Through the Years," which was previously released only as digital, this special Japanese edition 2-CD set features a carefully selected selection of famous performances of hit songs and representative songs from his four decade career from the 1970s to the 2000s, with a significant amount of additional songs. The 2-CD set contains 32 songs (including 13 world premiere CD releases and 6 Japan premiere CD releases). 2023 mastering.

Billy Boy Arnold is one of the last of the legendary Chicago Blues harmonica players. In addition to his solo releases, he recorded with Bo Diddley in the Fifties and has been covered by David Bowie, The Yardbirds and The Blasters. Produced by Duke Robillard and backed by stellar musicians, including the Roomful Of Blues Horns, this release showcases a brilliant artist still in his prime. Billy Boy was inducted into the Blues Hall of Fame in 2013. "Billy Boy Arnold's talent as a songwriter, singer, harp master and blues historian is still in full swing and here, on this album, he demonstrates his flair and love for many different facets of the blues. This recording is surely a remarkable achievement."

Billy Stewart's greatest album and song were both contained on this fine recording from the mid-'60s. "I Do Love You" was that rare anguished testimonial that never became vapid, sappy, or overly sentimental, and was compelling and captivating throughout Stewart's marvelous leads and the piercing harmonies. The album also contained other gems like "Fat Boy," "Reap What You Sow," and "Sitting In The Park." Maybe someday this album will be reissued intact, after Stewart's hits have finally been recycled to death.

'One World' is the 11th studio album from Billy Ocean, the biggest black recording star Britain has ever produced. The album features 12 brand new songs, all co-written by Billy, and sees him reunite with producer Barry Eastmond who wrote and produced a number of Billy's biggest hits including "When The Going Gets Tough" and "Love Zone." A Grammy award winner with worldwide sales of over 30 million, Billy hit the number one spot across three continents in the 70s and 80s, counting no fewer than six UK top 10 singles. With hit albums the world over, Billy has notched up an impressive three Platinum albums (including two which are certified 2x Platinum).