Helen Schneider – The Best Of Helen Schneider

Helen Schneider – The Best Of Helen Schneider

Helen Schneider – The Best Of Helen Schneider is a strong collection of the American singer's rock recordings from the period when she became a major name in Germany. Originally issued in 1984 on WEA, the compilation brings together highlights from her early-1980s rock period, including the hit "Rock 'n' Roll Gypsy", alongside tracks from Schneider With The Kick, Exposed and Breakout.

The album opens with "Rock 'n' Roll Gypsy", Schneider's hugely successful adaptation of Rose Tattoo's "Rock 'n' Roll Outlaw". The track became a major European hit, reaching No. 6 in Germany and No. 1 in Switzerland, and remains her best-known rock recording.

"The Price Of Love", "Jimmy", "Weekend" and "Angry Times" continue the energetic rock sound, showcasing Schneider's powerful vocals and the polished production of her early-1980s recordings. "Breakout" rounds out the first side with another example of her ability to combine rock attitude with accessible pop songwriting.

Side two features "Hot Summer Nites", "White Turning Black" and "Shadows Of The Night", followed by her spirited interpretation of "Piece Of My Heart" and a punchy version of The Kinks' "You Really Got Me". The collection closes with the dramatic "Hearts Of Stone". The tracklisting is confirmed for the 1984 German WEA LP, catalogue 240 353-1.

Although born in New York, Schneider enjoyed particular success in Germany during the early 1980s, working with The Kick and touring extensively. Her career would later develop into theatre and cabaret, including a notable performance as Sally Bowles in Cabaret, but this compilation captures the hard-rocking side of her career.

For collectors of Helen Schneider, German 1980s rock, female rock vocalists, new wave, pop rock and classic rock vinyl, The Best Of Helen Schneider is a great overview of one of the more distinctive rock voices to find success in Germany during the period.

Tracklist

Side A

1. Rock 'n' Roll Gypsy – 4:50
2. The Price Of Love – 4:04
3. Jimmy – 3:45
4. Weekend – 4:08
5. Angry Times – 5:30
6. Breakout – 3:08

Side B

1. Hot Summer Nites – 4:54
2. White Turning Black – 4:22
3. Shadows Of The Night – 3:20
4. Peace Of My Heart – 3:38
5. You Really Got Me – 2:40
6. Hearts Of Stone – 5:55