Music Review: The Ronettes – Be My Baby: The Very Best Of The Ronettes

During the early 1960’s, few people produced as many successful singles as Phil Spector. Releases by The Ronettes, The Crystals, Darlene Love, and The Righteous Brothers among others climbed high on the American charts.

Spector is remembered for his creativity and advances in the recording studio. His multi-tracking and layering of vocals was ahead of its time and became known as the “Wall Of Sound.” His sound remains fresh nearly fifty years after its creation.

Spector established the Phillies label during 1961. In commemoration of its 50th anniversary, Sony Legacy, in conjunction with Phil Spector Records. has issued CD’s by Darlene Love, The Crystals, The Ronettes, and a greatest hits compilation.

The Ronettes formed during the early 1960’s. Veronica Bennett, her sister Estelle, and their cousin Nedra Talley would ultimately be inducted into the Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame. It completed a long journey that began during 1961 with a series of performances at the famous Peppermint Lounge in New York City, for which they were paid $10.00.

Spector originally hired them as a backing group but quickly moved them into the studio on their own. Their first release would become one of the memorable songs of the pre-Beatles era. “Be My Baby” is still recognized as one of the classic songs of the early 1960’s. It would climb to the number two position on the American Singles Chart, and remain there for three weeks.

During the next three years, they would produce such songs as “Baby I Love You,” “ (The Best Part Of) Breakin’ Up,” “Walking In The Rain,” “I Can Hear Music,” “Do I Love You,” “Born To Be Together,” and “Is This What I Get For Loving You.” Be My Baby: The Very Best Of The Ronettes gathers all these songs plus ten more to form the definitive Ronettes album. They were remastered from the original tapes and present not only the brilliance of Spector’s production, but also the power of Ronnie’s voice plus the harmonies of the threesome.

Ronnie (Veronica) married Phil Spector during 1968. His obsessive possessiveness during their five-year marriage would put an end to The Ronettes career. Ronnie would go on to a credible solo career and is still active on the road and in the studio.

Be My Baby: The Very Best Of The Ronettes is an excellent look back in time to the early 1960’s. Veronica, Estelle, and Nedra have left a wonderful musical legacy and this release is a good way to enjoy the best of their music.