Chart Toppers: Romantic Hits of the 50s [Compilation]

I didn't think it would've been possible to buy a CD with four of my all-time favourite 50s songs appearing on it, but "Chart Toppers: Romantic Hits Of The 50s" has been a wonderful surprise! Think 'Fifties', think 'Romance' and you've got to think of tracks like, "Sleepwalk" (Santo & Johnny), "Love Is A Many Splendoured Thing" (The Four Aces), "I Only Have Eyes For You" (The Flamingos) and "Sea Of Love" (Phil Phillips). These, like the rest of the tracks found on this wonderful album, will be rather familiar to even the more modern music listener as these songs have been used countless times in Hollywood movie soundtracks, or advertising a plethora of products since the 50s. And if you don't recognize them, you damn well should!

Other mentionable highlights include: "My Special Angel" (Bobby Helms), "Donna" (Ritchie Valens), "Love Letters In The Sand" (Pat Boone) and "All I Have To Do Is Dream" by the Everly Brothers. Still, there's not a bad track to be found here, which is quite rare for a compilation album. And don't think this is a vintage collection just for oldies either. My girlfriend and I - who are both in our 30s - like nothing better than to 'snuggle' up on the couch while listening to this. And that only proves a great song *never* ages. Treat yourself and buy this CD. You won't regret it!

Jon.

Chart Toppers: Romantic Hits of the 50s has fifteen wonderfully romantic tunes that made us feel romantic back in the 50s. This is sure to bring back great memories for those of us who first heard these tunes on the radio; and people searching for music from the `50s will like this album, also.

The Everly Brothers start things off right with their charming "All I Have To Do;" the men sing of how they love their women and their daydreams about their women. The Everly Brothers harmonize to perfection and the musical arrangement is very pretty. "Donna" by Ritchie Valens sways nice and slow for the perfect slow dance with your sweetheart; Ritchie sings this with all his heart and soul. Listen also for Bobby Helms doing his singularly beautiful "My Special Angel;" Bobby sings this flawlessly as the percussion, drums and more make a special musical accompaniment.

Moreover, The Flamingos score a huge hit in my book with their "I Only Have Eyes For You;" the modulations between major and minor keys enhance the natural beauty of this number. Pat Boone's "Love Letters In The Sand" is equally impressive; Pat sings this with panache and the backup vocalists harmonize well to bolster Pat's performance.

Vic Damone sings "On The Street Where You Live" as he shows off the operatic qualities of his voice; and Doris Day sings her very popular "Whatever Will Be, Will Be (Que Sera, Sera)." Doris sings "Whatever Will Be, Will Be (Que Sera, Sera)" very sweetly. I like the strings in the musical arrangement as Doris sings this ballad.

Jimmie Rogers does well with his "Kisses Sweeter Than Wine;" Jimmie sings this soulfully and the backup singers harmonize perfectly. "Kisses Sweeter Than Wine" is another charmer that I predict you'll like very much if you haven't heard it before. The CD ends with Eddie Heywood performing "Soft Summer Breeze." The piano arrangement is very elegant and the percussion enhances this number very much. "Soft Summer Breeze" makes a strong ending for this album.

Overall, this album is a wonderful compilation of just some of the best romantic ballads and tunes from the 1950s. Of course, being a single CD it can't be a complete compilation; but as a single CD we have very high quality control here. I highly recommend this for aficionados of 1950s romantic music. You won't be disappointed.

I'm so happy I bought this as a gift for my father, not only because he loves these songs and grew up with these songs, but I personally, know of them from various movies.

I must say that, even though I'm in my twenties, I find all, and I mean all, the songs of this album are unique, and exceptional. Who can resist the sweet sounds of Ritchie Valen's "Donna", Frankie Avalon's "Venus" or Doris Day's "Que Sera Sera" to name a few. You can sing along to each song! I could sit back in the twilight hours, with a glass of mellowed liquor and take a trip back to the fifties when I listen to this CD. Its as if I actually lived through that era.

You won't be sorry you bought this album for a loved one or yourself....