2010 two CD collection. From her early years as a diva of Rhythm & Blues, Etta James has since grown into a voice that literally transcends generations. It doesn't' matter whether she is singing an old standard, a Broadway hit, or a Rock 'n' Roll anthem, she is always reaching into a deep level of musical consciousness - a place primal yet sophisticated, struggling yet triumphant, scarred yet proud. The Essential Etta James covers her work over the last 20 years, from the Billie Holiday tribute album, Mystery Lady, to her most recent recording, the wide ranging All the Way, featuring music from John Lennnon, Prince, Leonard Bernstein and Marvin Gaye.