What makes Lonely at the Top: The Best of Randy Newman by Randy Newman notable?

This compilation is significant not only for its critical reception but also for its reflection of Newman's impact on popular music and film scoring. It features some of his most iconic songs, like 'I Love L.A.' and 'Short People', which have left an indelible mark on American culture and continue to resonate in various media. The album's release coincided with Newman's growing recognition, culminating in an Academy Award win for Best Original Song in 2002. By 1998, Randy Newman had established himself as a distinctive voice in music, with 'Lonely at the Top' being a compilation of his best works up to that point. This album followed his previous release, 'Bad Love' (1999), highlighting his evolution from a cult favorite to a respected mainstream artist. The collection showcases his unique storytelling ability and satirical edge, cementing his place in music history.

Who is Lonely at the Top: The Best of Randy Newman for?

Lonely at the Top: The Best of Randy Newman works well if you're into whimsical storytelling with irony, nostalgic reflections on americana and short tracks for quick enjoyment.

How many songs are on Lonely at the Top: The Best of Randy Newman?

Lonely at the Top: The Best of Randy Newman has 22 tracks, running approximately 69 minutes.

Lonely at the Top: The Best of Randy Newman

Randy Newman · 1998

69 min · 22 tracks · blues · contemporary R&B · alternative country

A whimsical blend of sardonic wit and poignant melodies that captures the essence of Americana.

Spotify Apple Music YouTube Music

YouTube Deezer Bandcamp SoundCloud

Own it: Amazon eBay

Why this album works

This compilation is significant not only for its critical reception but also for its reflection of Newman's impact on popular music and film scoring. It features some of his most iconic songs, like 'I Love L.A.' and 'Short People', which have left an indelible mark on American culture and continue to resonate in various media. The album's release coincided with Newman's growing recognition, culminating in an Academy Award win for Best Original Song in 2002.

Best for: whimsical storytelling with irony nostalgic reflections on americana short tracks for quick enjoyment
Context: By 1998, Randy Newman had established himself as a distinctive voice in music, with 'Lonely at the Top' being a compilation of his best works up to that point. This album followed his previous release, 'Bad Love' (1999), highlighting his evolution from a cult favorite to a respected mainstream artist. The collection showcases his unique storytelling ability and satirical edge, cementing his place in music history.
Stylistic neighbors: No Doubt· Harry Nilsson· Cher· Prince· Elvis Presley· Donna Summer· Cyndi Lauper· Madonna

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

1 Love Story 3:22
2 Living Without You 2:23
3 I Think It’s Going to Rain Today 2:58
4 Mama Told Me Not to Come 2:13
5 My Old Kentucky Home 2:38
6 Sail Away Standout 2:52
7 Simon Smith and the Amazing Dancing Bear 2:05
8 Political Science Standout 2:00
9 God’s Song (That’s Why I Love Mankind) 3:39
10 Rednecks 3:10
11 Birmingham 2:47
12 Marie 3:08
13 Louisiana 1927 2:56
14 Baltimore 4:04
15 Jolly Coppers on Parade 3:47
16 Rider in the Rain 3:54
17 In Germany Before the War 3:39
18 Short People 2:55
19 Christmas in Capetown 4:24
20 My Life Is Good 4:40
21 I Love L.A. Standout 3:30
22 Lonely at the Top 2:29

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata

What to play next

Listen next

A Bug's Life – An Original Walt Disney Records Soundtrack

1998

Go back to

Guilty: 30 Years of Randy Newman

1998

Full Randy Newman discography Artists like Randy Newman

alternative country blues contemporary R&B