Gold is a compilation album by American singer‑songwriter Cher, released on August 23, 2005, by UMG Recordings, Inc. It forms part of the Universal Music "Gold" series, which features greatest‑hits collections from various artists.
Background
The album assembles tracks spanning Cher’s career from the late 1960s through the early 2000s. It includes selections from her solo work as well as material recorded with the duo Sonny & Cher. The compilation aims to provide a broad overview of her commercial successes and stylistic evolution.
Content
The standard two‑disc edition contains 38 tracks, arranged chronologically. Notable inclusions are:
- “Bang Bang (My Baby Shot Me Down)” (1966) – Sonny & Cher
- “I Got You Babe” (1965) – Sonny & Cher
- “Gypsys, Tramps & Thieves” (1971)
- “Half-Breed” (1973)
- “Dark Lady” (1974)
- “Half‑Blind” (1979)
- “If I Could Turn Back Time” (1989)
- “Believe” (1998)
- “The Beat Goes On” (1998) – from the Believe era
- “Song for the Lonely” (2002)
Each disc is presented with original album credits and production details.
Production and Release
- Label: UMG Recordings, Inc. (Universal Music Group)
- Format: CD, digital download
- Length: Approximately 2 hours 20 minutes
- Producers: Various, reflecting the original production teams of the individual tracks.
Reception
Critical response to the compilation was generally positive, noting its comprehensive scope and effective representation of Cher’s diverse catalog. Commercially, the album charted in several territories, including reaching the top‑40 of the French Albums Chart and peaking within the top‑100 in the United Kingdom.
Significance
Gold serves as a reference point for both new listeners and longtime fans, illustrating Cher’s longevity and adaptability across multiple musical eras, from folk‑rock duets to disco, rock, and dance‑pop. The release also contributed to renewed interest in her back catalogue during the mid‑2000s.
