The Very Best Of Brenda Holloway
Holloway was one of several femaleMotownartists who never broke through to the top level of stardom, or even of the company's concern. Nevertheless, herVery Bestcollects many terrific records that often avoid the Detroit formula: "Every Little Bit Hurts" and other ballads actually bring to mind Jerry Ragovoy's dramatic productions forHoward TateandLorraine Ellison, while Holloway's performance on the original "You've Made Me So Very Happy" is one of the label's greatest late-1960s vocals. This CD's 1999 release coincided with a Rhythm & Blues Foundation Pioneer Award for Holloway; these two events should, with any justice, lead to more recognition for this excellent singer.--Rickey Wright