Editor’s Note: The Albumism staff has selected what we believe to be the 100 Greatest Soundtracks of All Time, representing a varied cross-section of films and musical genres. Click “Next Soundtrack” below to explore each soundtrack in the list or for easier navigation, view the full introduction & soundtrack index here.
Waiting to Exhale
Arista (1995)
Selected by Justin Chadwick
Few soundtracks boast an all-women assemblage of artists, let alone an all-Black-women ensemble. Hence why Waiting to Exhale represents such a remarkable feat. Featuring notable contributions from vocal luminaries Aretha Franklin, Chaka Khan and the film’s co-star Whitney Houston, who contributes three songs, the soundtrack also wisely showcases the talented crop of singers who emerged during the ‘90s as beneficiaries of the musical and professional trails that the aforementioned trio blazed. Standouts include Toni Braxton’s “Let It Flow,” Brandy’s “Sittin’ Up In My Room,” Mary J. Blige’s “Not Gon’ Cry,” and Chanté Moore’s “Wey U.”
All in all, a stirring aural accompaniment to this empowering portrait of female strength, fragility and friendship.
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