Yep, another one of these babies. In the past couple days, R&B and Soul (Motown in particular) have hit me like a ton of bricks. So now, I'm figuring out which albums I should buy first. I have a good idea of which ones to go for, but my main question has to do with singles-based artists like the Supremes and the Vandellas. I'd probably be buying compilations for groups like them (unless the individual albums are really worth it), so are there any in particular that stand above the rest? Other contributions for reccomended albums are, of course, totally welcome. Soul, R&B, Pop Girl Groups, whatever. No need for an "Essential Blues Albums" sized list. At least, not yet. Not that I'd be complaining if one were to show up.

I feel like I really benefited greatly from investing in the Top of ths Stax collection. Of course, a lot of Stax Records certainly need to be owned in full, like, Hot Buttered Soul. But still, imo, it's great way to round things off and expose yourself to a lot of great tracks.

Some James Brown always does the trick. Live at the Apollo 63 is a classic, you can really feel his performance value through it. Go for a best of if you want, I mean theres really no wrong with this guy.

I like the Jackson 5. I think you'd fare fine with a best of. I have the Ultimate Collection and it is all I need.

Aretha Franklin is one of my favorite female singers. Shes got a couple true classic albums. I think you would fare well with a best of, it really all depends on the exposure you want. I Never Loved a Man The Way I Loved You is a true classic and your collection would benefit from it.

I'm sure JB is a given but, still, I recommend Motherlode.

What's up, Jazz. If we're talkin' compilations, I like Beg, Scream, & Shout!: The Big Ol' Box of 60's Soul. A lot of great tunes on six discs. For the sounds of the ladies, try One Kiss Can Lead to Another: Girl Group Sounds Lost and Found. A nice four discer covering the 60's.

Yeah I'd say if anyone is a given its him.

I was just going off some initial acts that came to mind.

some essential albums:

james brown – live at the apollo
stevie wonder – songs in the key of life, talking book, innervisions
isaac hayes – hot buttered soul
curtis mayfield – superfly
marvin gaye - what's goin on, let's get it on

but, as you said, r&b was singles oriented, so buying greatest hits is cool. some wicked compilations:

james brown - star time
various artists - hitsville usa
sam cooke - portrait of a legend 1951 - 1964
ray charles - birth of soul
marvin gaye - anthology

there's a couple good stax box sets. some are a little exhaustive however, and as you may have noticed, exhaustion isn't really a theme on my list.

Thanks to all for the input, there were just a few misinterperetations along the way. See, I generally completely avoid compilations that aren't "Complete", exhaustive is usually right up my alley. The only exception I'm making is for artists that have albums that are mostly filler, mixed in with some fantastic songs. So I'd want compilations for individual artists (most of the ones off of Wayne's compilations list are good examples), but ones that cover multiple artists get too broad for me. Any more good ones like the ones I'm trying to get at would be great, and actual albums are even better. Thanks a lot for any further input anyone might have, the wording was kinda weird in my original post.

Along with Superfly Curtis' fist and second lp's are a must listen