Search - Anita Baker :: Giving You the Best I Got

Barbara M. (Babe) from NEW YORK, NY
Reviewed on 3/4/2007...

Anita Baker's sexy, inimitable style in a very romantic CD.

A worthy follow-up to Baker's blockbuster

John Jones | Chicago IL | 05/08/2000

(5 out of 5 stars)

"In 1988, the pressure was on Anita Baker to release an album worthy of succeeding "Rapture," her crossover, breakout smash that set a new standard in R&B and sold five million copies. With "Giving You the Best That I Got," Baker dethroned U2's "Rattle and Hum" from Billboard's top-selling album slot and proved that "Rapture" was no fluke.The title track made it all the way to #2 on the pop singles chart; a cool, laid-back but soulful affair, the song cemented the path that "Rapture" had begun to lay for the jazzy, "Quiet Storm" artists of the late 80's to recieve airplay and crossover acceptance. The pop-flavored "Just Because" was the follow-up, and the jazzy "Rules" enjoyed airplay on adult contemporary and jazz stations nationwide.The hidden treasures on the album, however, are just as enjoyable (if not more) for their diversity: "Good Enough" is a sultry slice of Bossa Nova that boasts a delicious scat; "Good Love" utitlizes Baker's lower register in its seductive chorus; and "You Belong to Me," a definite missed opportunity for a single, finds Baker in a more upbeat setting with glorious results. (Not to be confused with Baker's rendition of Carly Simon's "You Belong to Me," a ballad on her "Rhythm of Love" release.)Some critics unfairly complained that the songs weren't as rich or compelling as those included on "Rapture." But did Carole King ever top "Tapestry"? Did Fleetwood Mac ever make a better album than "Rumours"? After all, an artist's classic release doesn't invalidate their other work, and "Giving You the Best That I Got" is just as strong and worthy as anything else in the Baker cache."

Anita: One of a Kind

Anne B | US | 12/12/1999

(5 out of 5 stars)

"I thought that this album was definately one of her best. She is, without a doubt, one of the finest soul artists of her time, and deserves far more recognition for her work. I hope to hear more in the future."