Laura Nyro was the first person managed under David Geffen. This partnership made Geffen a millionaire at the age of 27, and soon after he founded Asylum Records.

Karen Carpenter had the best voice in popular music history. Nobody comes close. Oh, and she played the drums at the same time!! Buddy Rich, Hal Blaine, Cubby O'Brien and others have praised her abilities. Carpenter was a real musician with endless talent.

Melanie Safka doesn't get a fair shake when it comes to her place in music. Her talents are enormous; the work included in this compilation is exceptionally varied. 'Peace Will Come (According to Plan)', and 'Psychotherapy' are my favorites from here. 'You know I'm gonna do anything Just to take up time Cause I can't find a taker for the leftover wine'

You may have heard covers of her 'Jesus Was A Cross Maker' (sometimes known as 'Bandit and a Heart Breaker'), but know very little else. Judee Sill was a brilliant composer and songwriter; it's a shame how things turned out for her and that her memory is not properly respected.

One of the most versatile artists in popular music history. She spans many genres and has recorded succesfully in thirteen languages. She had 35 Top 40 hits - 16 of those landing in the Top 10, and sold 35 million records by 1967 (over 100 million to date); but popularity isn't what matters here. Connie Francis is a musical genius with one of the greatest, most distinctive voices of all time.

I bought this CD after hearing a snippet of 'The Way I Am' on the radio. I did not see the Old Navy sweater commercial, nor do I watch Grey's Anatomy - so if those two things that she is so associated with do not appeal to you, fear not; the music is amazing. Give it a chance.