Taylored In Silk & Super Taylor

The 2000 release of Taylored In Silk & Super Taylor serves as a two-fer compilation, bringing together two of Johnnie Taylor's most critically acclaimed albums from the early 1970s. Originally released in 1973 and 1974 respectively, these albums represent the peak of Taylor’s tenure with Stax Records, capturing his transition from gospel-influenced soul to the polished, sophisticated Memphis sound that defined his middle-career output.

The albums were produced under the influential guidance of Don Davis, whose arrangements blended lush string sections with tight, gritty rhythm sections. These recordings were instrumental in establishing Taylor’s reputation as a master of both romantic ballads and upbeat soul tracks. Upon their initial release, the albums were highly regarded for their production quality and Taylor's emotive vocal performances, and this compilation remains a key artifact for those studying the stylistic evolution of the Stax label.