There are numerous Patti LaBelle compilations on the market, and Definitive Collection covers much the same ground as most. Nevertheless, it is a fine selection, and one that -- at 19 tracks -- offers more than many budget-line samplers while still providing an excellent single-disc overview of the R&B diva's career. The set stretches back to LaBelle's earliest work with the Bluebelles and includes one track with the funk outfit LaBelle (which is "What Can I Do for You?" and not, surprisingly, "Lady Marmalade"). But the primary focus here is the pop-oriented urban soul of her '80s and '90s solo career, and all the essentials -- "New Attitude," "Stir It Up," and "On My Own" (her number one smash with Michael McDonald) -- are included. Casual fans looking for a one-stop dose of LaBelle's best won't go wrong with this one.
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