Marakanetz, your point that many great artists eschew the opportunity to "Best Of" is a given. Not really sure it equates to "pop" (i.e. Etta) but some do clearly see it as a lessening of stature. On the other hand, some of the collections already posted give great joy to their listeners! :-)
Best of the Best Ofs
What are your favorite "Best Of"/"Greatest Hits" albums? Some seem to have been released at the wane of popularity of the artist(s) to earn a few last bucks. Some artist(s) have mutliple "Best Ofs", each with a few hits and some decided "also-rans". Still others are packed with keepers from one side to the next. Which best is best in your collection?