Best of ... [Best of]

Okay folk/country/rock fans, let's try a blindfold test on our friends. Play them "Tell Me Why You Like Roosevelt", and have them guess who the singer is. Most of my victims guess Lyle Lovett, and they don't believe they're wrong until I show them this CD. That only goes to prove that Lyle Lovett had discerning taste when he was younger and that Tennessee born Jesse Winchester was a highly influential presence in the wings of the 70's music scene. He's most familiar to listeners via the many cover versions of his songs like 'Biloxi', Rhumba Man',and 'Brand New Tennessee Waltz"'all done while he was enjoying Canadian hospitality as a result of a disagreement with the draft board in the late 60's and early 70's.The inability to tour the U.S. during this period cost him many potential fans and helps to explain his near anonymity today. This CD is a great way to catch up with this gifted singer songwriter. Any transplanted southerner can easily become homesick hearing "Mississippi You're On My Mind', or "Yankee Lady", I know I'm prone to fits of melancholia listening to them. But he's witty, and not without a sense of down home humor too, so the total package works out fine. If you like this sampler then you'll want to go into his available back catalogue for more hidden delights. He's touring again too and puts on a great live show. Just ask Lyle Lovett next time you see him.

I rate this 3 stars for one reason only. His best song and only hit to my knowledge is "Nothing but a dream" Even John Denver's rendition as great as he did it pales in comparison to Jessie Winchester's version. Jessie wrote the song. To call a CD "The Best OF" and leave off his only hit is just shy of criminal. This is a great CD, but would have rated 7 stars if the included his best and most famious song

I ordered this c.d. recently after istening to Jesse for over 20 years, and you won't be disappointed! Jesse is the most unique singer/songwriter I have ever known, and his songs, both lyrically and musically, will stay with you! Buy ALL of his c.d.'s - you will find really special music on each.