PHIL SPECTOR- Top 25. This post: #15-11. Continues tomorrow.

 

He certainly was not a pleasant person, treating some of the people in his life with cruelty, but there’s no denying the impact of Phil Spector on popular culture. First as a member of The Teddy Bears, then creating the thrilling Wall Of Sound and his skill as a songwriter will ensure his influence on music will remain timeless.

Here are 25 examples of his best work:

PHIL SPECTOR’S

TOP 25

GREATEST

RECORDINGS

15

MY SWEET LORD

George Harrison

When The Beatles parted ways, each member launched a solo career. George Harrison's was on the trajectory for the greatest success. This was largely due to the success of the global smash "My Sweet Lord". It was the first solo #1 single for a member of the Fab Four. In 1970, the disc topped charts in America, Britain, Europe, Canada, Australia and New Zealand. Harrison penned the song and co-produced the track with Spector.

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14

INSTANT KARMA!

John Lennon - Ono with the Plastic Ono Band

John Lennon unleashed "Instant Karma! (We All Shine On)" in early 1970. He penned the song and left production duties to Phil Spector. The disc made the Top 5 in the U.S.A., Britain, Europe, Canada, Australia and New Zealand.

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13

ACROSS THE UNIVERSE

The Beatles

Although a John Lennon composition, "Across The Universe" is credited to him and Paul McCartney (as was their common practice). The track, featured on the 1970 album 'Let It Be', was remixed by Spector. He added strings and background singers.

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12

HE’S A REBEL

The Crystals

Gene Pitney penned "He's A Rebel". Spector heard a demo of the song and set to work on his transformation. This was the single that raised his profile as a producer, showcasing the power of his Wall of Sound. None of the actual Crystals are on this recording. Darlene Love handled lead and was accompanied by The Blossoms.

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11

THE LONG AND WINDING ROAD

The Beatles

Spector has been highly criticized for his 'interference' on "The Long And Winding Road". Paul McCartney intended his ballad to be without frills. When Spector was brought in to complete the fruits of the laboured 'Let It Be' sessions, he made major changes: adding strings and a vocal choir. McCartney- who had not been consulted about the alterations- was horrified when he heard what had been done to his composition. Some cite this as a factor that accelerated the end of The Beatles. Nevertheless, the song was a beautiful track. The public embraced Spector's cut: giving The Fab Four one final US #1 single.

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