Following on from Kinaldo's 'Phil Spector Christmas Album' thread -

Phil Spector - One of the greatest and most influential pop music producers and song-writers. Co-writer and producer of 'Be My Baby', 'Doo Doo Ron Ron', 'To Know Him is to Love Him', 'Chapel of Love', 'Then He Kissed Me', 'You've Lost That Lovin' feelin' and of course, 'River Deep, Mountain High', not to mention The Beatles 'Let It Be' (for better or worse), Lennon's 'Plastic Ono Band' and Harrison's 'All Things Must Pass'

A shame many people can't distinguish between the work/ art of a man and his personal life/problems. For the work he did from 1959 to 69-ish, he should still be viewed as one of the true geniuses of pop music. Hell, Brian Wilson (main man of the Beach Boys) regards Spector as his idol. So, if the greatest living pop music composer (namely Brian Wilson - if you don't believe me, go out and buy 'Smile' and listen with an open mind - it almost crushes 'Sgt Pepper' IMO ) digs Spector, then respect should be due.

In some ways Spector was the archetype for Prince - the reclusive genius mega-selling song-writer/ record producer, mysterious and moody.

What do you think about the MUSIC AND PRODUCTIONS of Phil Spector, his influence, favourate songs. Did he ruin 'Let It Be' with his over-production? Are his songs now irrelevant and simplistic? What do you think about his work with the Crystals, The Ronettes, Darlene Love, the Righteous Bros., The Beatles (together and solo) and so on? Who wants to talk about this incredible if tragically flawed genius?

Miles said:

Spector was brilliant in the early years, particularly 1959-1964. But his megalomania, intransigence and unwilligness to mature with the changing times hindered his output during the latter half of the decade.

Another great, atypically restrained Spector production is The Paris Sisters "I Love How You Love Me".

You are right re: Phil Spector - One of the greatest and most influential pop music producers and songwriters....
However did you forget to mention that , Tina Turner, performed River Deep - Mountain High? circa; 1966 (and re-released in 1969)?
When the single was finally released, however, the public did not quite know what to make of it. "River Deep - Mountain High" was considered "too black for white radio, but too white for black radio". The single stalled out at #88 on the pop charts in America.The single had better fortune in the UK, however, peaking at #3 in the singles charts on first release. It was only held off the #1 spot by singles from The Beatles and The Kinks.
The man was a true genius and far ahead of his time. Here was this non-black man reaching into the soul and rhythm genre of music and taking it mega-steps forward in sound.
I can also just imagine the comments he must have heard (and had to put up with) from white studio exec's and producers for being so individualistic and determined to make his musical formula work. Most likely his introverted nature was not his true nature at the start. He probably became that way just to survive emotionally and keep his sense of creative equilibrium. Finally, I feel that his present state is due to years of not allowing his self (or knowing how) to vent and release all the pent frustrations.
I hope he can be healed in spite of all of the mental devistation he (seems to) have brought upon his self.
In answer to your question re: "Let it Be", Heck no it was not over produced.
Have you ever lifted the vocals and just listened to the musical tracks..It's Hecka-awesome...you'll play it over and over.


[Edited 12/24/05 23:39pm]
[Edited 12/24/05 23:39pm]
[Edited 12/24/05 23:42pm]
[Edited 12/24/05 23:48pm]
[Edited 12/25/05 18:21pm]

Additional comment: I'm sure Phil Spector got heat from black musicians as well as the vocalist. I heard he was a driver in the studio. (don't want to create any one-sided controversy)