# 1's
Destiny's Child (Columbia Records, c2005)
Shelf Number: R&B/DES/COMPACT/DISC

With their seductive delivery, elaborate vocal embellishments, and call-and-response dynamics, Destiny's Child cast the mold for urban contemporary R&B at the turn of the century, topping it off with a slick production informed by hip-hop. An overview that shows the group doing what they do best, #1's is a testament to their reigning influence and superstar status.

20 Greatest Hits

Chi-Lites (Brunswick Records, c2001)
Shelf Number: R&B/CHI/COMPACT/DISC

Besides being one of the most dynamic acts on the soul circuit of the late '60s and early '70s, the Chi-Lites also had an enviable range, which took them from intelligent protest firestorms to velvet-smooth ballads. All of the hits, and a few solid album tracks, are presented here in chronological order, and everything that really counts is done perfectly.

The 50th Anniversary Collection

Brown, James (Universal Records, c2003)
Shelf Number: R&B/BRO/COMPACT/DISC

The 50th Anniversary Collection includes 50 of James Brown's most famous tracks. Taken as a whole this collection not only represents the best Brown compilation on the market, but also make a plain case for the singer as one of the major talents of 20th century American music. This is a great tribute to the "Godfather of Soul" who passed away in December 2006.

Bring It On Home-- The Soul Classics

Neville, Aaron (Sony BMG Music Entertainment, c2006)
Shelf Number: R&B/NEV/COMPACT/DISC

For Aaron Neville, himself a New Orleans resident, the impact of Hurricane Katrina could only be expressed through music, specifically on songs that are uplifting, meaningful, and close to the heart. Bring It on Home...The Soul Classics reaches out to those who survived the storm delivering a sense of warmth which hopefully opens the door to healing, grace, and power.

The Definitive Collection

Pickett, Wilson ( Atlantic , c2006)
Shelf Number: R&B/PIC/COMPACT/DISC

Wilson Pickett was of the finest performers in the history of soul music, and this Definitive Collection is everything the title claims and a fitting tribute to one of the great ones.

The Definitive Soul Collection

Redding, Otis (Rhino, c2006)
Shelf Number: R&B/RED/COMPACT/DISC

This is a well-selected overview of the soul legend's recordings. All of Redding's best-known songs are presented on this two-disc set, including the aching ballad "These Arms of Mine," "Tramp," and, of course, the powerhouse vocalist's signature tune, "(Sittin' On) the Dock of the Bay."