Album Information Section
Album Title: More 14 Special Hits
Artist: Johnny Mathis
Original Release Date: 1994
Label: Globo/Columbia
Genres: Pop, Traditional Pop
Track Listing
- 1. Friends In Love
- 2. Memory
- 3. Wild Is The Wind
- 4. As Time Goes By
- 5. Blue Gardenia
- 6. She Believes In Me
- 7. True Love
- 8. (Where Do I Begin) Love Story
- 9. The Twelfth Or Never
- 10. One Day In Your Life
- 11. Stop, Look And Listen To Your Heart
- 12. When You Wish Upon A Star
- 13. Love Won’t Let Me Wait
- 14. Feelings
Recording Information
The album “More 14 Special Hits” by Johnny Mathis was recorded at the renowned CBS Studios in New York City, a location notable for hosting numerous iconic recording sessions. The exact dates of the recording sessions are not publicly documented, but Mathis was known for his meticulous approach to recording throughout the 1990s. The album was produced by the esteemed producer and arranger, Ray Ellis, alongside engineer John McClure, both of whom contributed significantly to the lush sound that characterized Mathis’s work during this era.
Utilizing advanced recording techniques for the time, including multitrack recording and orchestral arrangements, the production team aimed to create a rich auditory experience that highlighted Mathis’s smooth vocal style. An interesting note regarding the production of this album is that Mathis often collaborated closely with Ellis to ensure that the arrangements complemented his singing, resulting in a seamless blend of orchestral backing with his distinct vocal stylings.
Band Context
By the time “More 14 Special Hits” was released in 1994, Johnny Mathis had already established himself as a legendary figure in the music industry. With a career spanning over four decades, he was known for his romantic ballads and smooth vocal delivery. The early 1990s saw Mathis continuing to tour extensively and release albums that catered to both his loyal fanbase and new listeners. During this period, he was also experiencing a resurgence in popularity, partly due to the growing interest in classic pop music and the nostalgia for the romantic sounds of the 1950s and 1960s.
Mathis’s lineup during this recording included a talented group of session musicians, which varied for different tracks but often featured top-tier orchestral players. Prior to the release of “More 14 Special Hits,” Mathis had released several successful albums and singles, solidifying his reputation in the industry. The album was part of a broader trend in the 1990s where established artists revisited their classic hits, ensuring their legacy remained alive in the music scene.
Track Commentary
“More 14 Special Hits” features a selection of tracks that showcases Johnny Mathis’s remarkable vocal range and emotional delivery. The album opens with “Friends In Love,” a duet that highlights the chemistry between Mathis and his collaborator, illustrating themes of love and companionship. Following this, “Memory,” a poignant ballad from the musical “Cats,” allows Mathis to delve into deep emotional territory, demonstrating his ability to convey vulnerability through song.
Other notable tracks include “Wild Is The Wind,” which features a lush orchestral arrangement that complements Mathis’s soaring vocals, and “As Time Goes By,” a classic that evokes nostalgia and longing. The inclusion of tracks like “One Day In Your Life” and “(Where Do I Begin) Love Story” speaks to the romantic themes that are prevalent throughout the album, making it a timeless choice for listeners seeking heartfelt performances.
Several of the tracks, such as “True Love” and “When You Wish Upon A Star,” are imbued with a sense of classic Americana, resonating with audiences who appreciate traditional pop music. The song “Love Won’t Let Me Wait” also stands out, as it combines elements of soul with Mathis’s signature style, while “Feelings” rounds out the album with its emotional depth. Overall, the critical reception of “More 14 Special Hits” was positive, as it reaffirmed Mathis’s status as a masterful interpreter of song, with many tracks becoming staples in his live performances.
