I was inspired by a podcast called The 500
Album: #265
Album Title: The Genius Of Ray Charles
Artist: Ray Charles
Genre: Swingin' Pop, Rhythm & Blues, Traditional Pop
My age at release: Not Born
How familiar was I with it before this week: Some songs
Is it on the 2020 list? No (Two other Ray Charles records remain)
The record was the first of three with the word "Genius" in the title – a fitting accolade. Charles was often referred to as "The Genius" by his musical contemporaries, although he preferred to be called "Brother Ray". He is a legend in the world of music and trying to summarize his biography in a short blog post like this would be a disservice to his remarkable career. Instead, I recommend the 2004 biopic, Ray, featuring an Academy Award winning performance by Jamie Foxx in the titular role.
About the same time that his biopic was filming, Ray Charles performed in my hometown of London, Ontario. It was June 20, 2003, and the show took place at the newly built John Labatt Centre (now Budweiser Gardens). Although I debated purchasing tickets, I chose against it for financial reasons. The new arena and concert facility was an entertainment windfall for London. Prior to its construction, big music acts avoided The Forest City because it lacked a large enough venue with adequate technical facilities. Looking back, I regret not having taken in the legend’s performance, having already maxed out my budget on concert and hockey tickets.
However, a few of my friends bought tickets and others worked backstage. Their assessment: marvelously entertaining even though, at 72, Charles’ health was in decline. The large, talented band that accompanied him performed for 15 minutes before the artist, blind since he was eight due to untreated glaucoma, was led to the stage. Clearly showing signs of his age, Charles struggled with his mobility, leaving his band to carry large sections of the show.It is a sad fact that even monumental talents lose their lustre and face the R word – retirement. Some jump at the opportunity excited about new opportunities while others hesitate, uncertain about their future. For my own part, retirement seems to be rapidly approaching and I venture to say I have misgivings leaving a profession that I love. After 26 years in front of hundreds of young students, I feel as if I am at my peak, having kept up with changes in technology and teaching practices. However, I sometimes worry that a time will come when I am past my prime -- a dinosaur in a profession that has evolved beyond me.
I want to keep doing the thing I love,
I am still experiencing growth and success,
I seem to be good at what I do,
I have a strong support network around me.
I am not sure I would be happier if I stopped.
You bet. As another legendary musician crooned: "I did it my way."
Thanks for those kind words. I do love my job and really appreciate the fantastic community at SAC.
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