What makes The Best of Julie by Julie London notable?

This compilation album not only reached significant chart positions but also revitalized interest in London's music during the early '60s. Tracks like 'Cry Me a River' became defining songs of the era, influencing countless artists and contributing to her legacy as a vocal icon. The album's critical reception was largely positive, showcasing London's unique blend of cool jazz and traditional pop. In 1962, Julie London was already an established artist known for her sultry voice and captivating presence. 'The Best of Julie' served as a compilation of her most beloved tracks, solidifying her status in the traditional pop and jazz scene after a decade in the industry, including notable hits like 'Cry Me a River'. This album exemplified her appeal during a time when musical styles were shifting, bridging the gap between classic standards and modern pop.

Who is The Best of Julie for?

The Best of Julie works well if you're into smooth vocals for romantic evenings, short, sweet listening sessions and timeless standards for nostalgic moments.

How many songs are on The Best of Julie?

The Best of Julie has 13 tracks, running approximately 30 minutes.

The Best of Julie

Julie London · 1962

30 min · 13 tracks · jazz

Silky vocals glide over lush arrangements, blending jazz sophistication with a pop sensibility that feels both intimate and timeless.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Cry Me a River — As one of Julie London's signature songs, it showcases her emotive delivery and ability to convey heartbreak through subtle phrasing and dynamic control.
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They Can't Take That Away From Me — This track highlights London's smooth vocal style, paired with rich instrumentation that complements her ability to transform lyrical sentiment into a compelling performance.
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Invitation to the Blues — With its jazzy undertones and conversational tone, this song demonstrates London's knack for storytelling, inviting listeners into a world of romantic longing.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

45 /100

Lowland

Higher than 5% of albums we've rated

A solid compilation that highlights Julie London's vocal charm but lacks the depth of original studio albums.

What we noticed

The album features a consistent use of lush orchestral arrangements that complement London's smooth vocal delivery across all tracks.

Composition 25% of the score: 6/10
Craft 20% of the score: 7/10
Durability 25% of the score: 5/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 6/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 4/10

Influence 3/10

Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

smooth vocals for romantic evenings
short, sweet listening sessions
timeless standards for nostalgic moments
intimate background for cozy gatherings

Maybe skip if you

seekers of lengthy epics
prefer upbeat, fast-paced tracks

Where this album fits

Career context: In 1962, Julie London was already an established artist known for her sultry voice and captivating presence. 'The Best of Julie' served as a compilation of her most beloved tracks, solidifying her status in the traditional pop and jazz scene after a decade in the industry, including notable hits like 'Cry Me a River'. This album exemplified her appeal during a time when musical styles were shifting, bridging the gap between classic standards and modern pop.
Stylistic neighbors: Ella Fitzgerald· Sarah Vaughan· Nina Simone