• Track Listing

This 4-CD anthology differs from the typical boxed set in two ways. One, the "box" is a 72-page hardbound book with a 4,500-word essay, track-by-track commentary by John and photos that trace his journey from "Johnny Cougar" pop idol to social commentator, activist and respected songwriter. Second, John picked the songs, programming each disc to play like an album that flows rather than a random selection of hits. Hits join rarely anthologized gems, alternate versions and unissued cuts from 1976–2009: Jack & Diane (single and demo); Pink Houses; Authority Song (demo); Just Like You; Longest Days; Rural Route; Jim Crow; Mr. Bellows (remix); Forgiveness; Our Country; Thank You, and more from one of the quintessential rockers of the great Midwest.