CURTIS MAYFIELD AND THE IMPRESSIONS
20th Century Masters/Millennium Collection (MCA/UMG)
Reviewed by Bill Holmes

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The late Curtis Mayfield was one of those for whom the word "legend" was coined. Besides leading one of the finest soul groups of the sixties, his seventies Superfly soundtrack almost single-handedly popularized funk. Producer, writer and guitarist as well as supreme vocalist, his efforts and influence pushed countless other artists to the forefront. Paralyzed in a freak accident while performing in concert in 1990, Mayfield continued to inspire millions through his humility and dedication, even summoning the strength to record new material despite the hindrance of being a paraplegic. He was inducted to the Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame as both a solo artist and as a member of The Impressions (Mayfield, Sam Gooden and Fred Cash). Tragically, Curtis Mayfield passed away in 1999.

A single disk could never capture the volume of his work; besides his many hits with the Impressions, he had more than thirty chart-hits after he went solo. But the nine Impressions tracks included here are close to the cream of his catalogue, and both "Freddie's Dead" and "Superfly" from his solo years are included as well. The beauty of "I'm So Proud" and the gospel standard "Amen" are strong examples of his talent, but for me his social anthems like "Keep On Pushing," "People Get Ready" and "Choice Of Colors" will remain his true legacy.

© 2000 - Bill Holmes