Herbie Hancock on the Grammys

I agree, tomryan doesn't know what he's talking about. The stone cold fact is that drug addicts/alcoholics have been making great popular music since the beginning of recorded sound. There are talented dope fiends everywhere - jazz, country, easy listening, blues, metal, etc. It may be tragic or even pathetic, but that's the way it is. Twenty years from now I doubt I'll be listening regularly to Amy Winehouse's "Back To Black", but that doesn't mean that it wasn't a damned good record to listen to and enjoy in 2007-2008.

Herbie Hancock is a national treasure.

Tomryan, I understand your revulsion with the culture's adoration of celebrities and the decadent celebrity lifestyle some practice, but don't let that interfer with your enjoyment of good art. Despite the way the media portrays Amy Winehouse, or even in spite of how she really may be, she still has produced an excellent album. As a consumer I can purchase and enjoy the music, but unless the artist knocks on my door and ask to use my bathroom, well, I really don't care about them anymore than I care about Steve Job just because I'm typing on a Mac.

If you liked Lauryn Hill's "Education" album, you'll probably like Amy Winehouse's "Back To Black". Sonically they went for a 60s retro sound with very little stereo info. Think classic Motown with a strong dash of Phil Spectre. It's loud, but not ruinously so.