AMG Review of Songs from the Neighborhood: The Music of Mister Rogers

Rob Theakston
All Music Guide

With his passing in 2003, TV pioneer Fred Rogers not only left a history of educating and entertaining children behind as his legacy, he also left a rich songbook very few knew Rogers composed himself. This 13-song disc features performers from a wide variety of genres paying homage to Rogers, including Amy Grant, Crystal Gayle, Donna Summer, and Roberta Flack. Songs from the Neighborhood reinvents many of these tunes in a jazzy, laid-back fashion that's not only accessible and catchy to children, but adults will find themselves humming along to these instantly memorable melodies as well. A fitting tribute to a man whose influence will be felt for generations to come. [Also included in the package is a bonus DVD featuring a behind-the-scenes documentary of the making of this album. A highly informative and entertaining watch.]