Although Neville is often compared to singer Sam Cooke in terms of sheer vocal refinement, he has a voice and style uniquely his own. Today he is well known as part of the New Orleans sound of the Neville Brothers. Yet, aside from the 1967 number one R&B hit "Tell It Like It Is," few have heard his incredible early solo recordings. Many of the first recordings of Aaron Neville, in the early and mid-'60s, were arranged, produced, and often written by the brilliant Allen Toussaint -- another talent only now being really appreciated. Most of these sides were cut for the Minit (and later) Parlo labels. Songs like "She Took You for a Ride" and "You Think You're So Smart" on Parlo are masterpieces. While his more recent work, including that with Linda Ronstadt, makes for pleasant listening, it lacks the sheer persuasion of his early songs. Aaron has re-recorded his early work often, and it is important to hear the originals. The early sides of Aaron Neville are just waiting to be heard.

Aaron Neville has ventured more into other waters besides R&B. The Grand Tour of 1993 included a remake of a George Jones song that got Neville a little country attention, and he announced plans in 1994 to do a complete country album. He was also one of several R&B artists who teamed with country stars for the Rhythm, Country and Blues session. Neville was paired with Trisha Yearwood, and the duo also performed together in a benefit concert for the LP held in Los Angeles in April 1994. The LP made history by debuting in the Top Ten on the pop, R&B, and country charts.

Performers: Aaron Neville, vocal; Rob Mounsey piano, organ, keyboards, percussion; Anthony Wilson, guitar; Ron Carter, bass; Grady Tate, drums; Linda Ronstadt, vocal; Roy Hargrove, trumpet, flugelhorn; Ray Anderson, trombone; Michael Brecker, tenor saxophone; Charles Neville, tenor saxophone; Ry Cooder, guitar; Gil Goldstein, accordian; Bashiri Johnson, congas, percussion.

Selections:
1. Summertime
2. Blame it on My Youth
3. The Very Thought of You - with Linda Ronstadt
4. The Shadow of Your Smile
5. Cry Me a River
6. Nature Boy
7. Who Will Buy?
8. Come Rain or Come Shine
9. Our Love Is Here to Stay
10. In the Still of the Night
11. Since I Fell for You
12. Danny Boy