"Rodney Crowell has a gift--the ability to craft words into poetry. There are a few others who have, over time, possessed this gift--Kristofferson, Dylan, Nelson. After one listen to this album, you will understand why I am putting Rodney Crowell in this elite group.
Many of these songs have become hits for others: "I ain't Livin Long Like This" (Waylon), "Please Remember Me" (Tim McGraw), "Shame on the Moon" (Bob Seger, and "Lovin All Night" (Patty Lovelace" all come to mind. So you know that Crowell's peers respect him. But few songs are so world-conscious as the rap on "Fate's Right Hand," or as melancholy as "Many a Long & Lonesome Highway". "Still Learning How To Fly" is a song for everyone who isn't finished yet. And if you want lighter fair, there's the hilarious "She's Crazy for Leaving," and the sing-along tribute to (and duet with) former-father-in-law Johnny Cash, "I Walk the Line (Revisited)".
THE ESSENTIAL RODNEY CROWELL is for long-time Crowell fans, and those just coming to recognize his talent. Maybe not the world's best singer, but certainly one of the best songwriters and tunesmiths--along with a select few, Rodney Crowell helped change country music songwriting forever. Buy this album and hear why. It is, in all honesty, essential."
WOW
Sharon K. Holdcraft | Mid South | 04/12/2007
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Mr Crowell is one of Nashville's best kept secrets ( except to them). His voice flows as smooth as ice over August heated skin leaving behind flesh aching for more. After hearing this CD be prepared to fall in love."
Great Album
R. Orris | Fulton, Illinois | 05/27/2008
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Rodney Crowell is definitely one of the greatest singer/ songwriters ever. This is a great addition to my music collection.
I always liked songs when performed by others, but to hear the songwriter singing his own songs is great."
Real Country
David A. Huff | Indiana | 01/09/2007
(5 out of 5 stars)
"This Rodney Crowell CD titled The Essential Rodney Crowell is one of the best CD's I have purchased in awhile. I like variety and just hate listening to the usual "same short play list" every day on radio. Some older music mixed with songs I have never heard plus a couple of new songs is what I like. This CD fits in with todays music even though most songs are from a time before! I also like to dance to country music and many of these songs are great dance songs. Try it, you'll "Love It All Night" too!