The 500 - #265 - The Genius Of Ray Charles - Ray Charles

I was inspired by a podcast called The 500 hosted by Los Angeles-based comedian Josh Adam Meyers. His goal, and mine, is to explore Rolling Stone Magazine's 2012 edition of The 500 Greatest Albums of All Time. 

---

Album: #265

Album Title: The Genius Of Ray Charles

Artist: Ray Charles

Genre: Swingin' Pop, Rhythm & Blues, Traditional Pop

Recorded: 6 West Recording Studios, New York, New York

Released: October, 1959

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)

Song I am putting on my Spotify Playlist: Alexander’s Ragtime Band

The Genius Of Ray Charles is a 1959 record released by singer, songwriter, pianist, saxophonist and arranger Ray Charles (born Ray Charles Robinson). It was Charles' second album of 1959 and his seventh release within a two-year span -- a prolific run. It also marked his departure from traditional rhythm and blues into a wider range of music styles. The album was divided into two parts. The first side contains swinging pop music, backed by a big band, while the second features string-backed ballads. It produced two hits, both Louis Jordan covers, Let The Good Times Roll and Don't Let The Sun Catch You Cryin'.

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.

Perhaps I am experiencing the same things Ray Charles was when he touring in his seventies:

• 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.

It turns out that the 2003 appearance in London would be Ray Charles' final performance in Canada. His tour was suspended 30 days later for health reasons. He underwent successful hip surgery later that year and, according to his management team, he planned to continue touring in 2004. However, his health declined precipitously and he died in his home in Beverly Hills California on June 10, 2004.

It seems he went out on his own terms, doing what he loved until it became impossible. He also left behind an incredible legacy and contributions that are still felt today. 

Wouldn't we all like to say that at the end?

You bet. As another legendary musician crooned: "I did it my way."

Ray Charles sure did. I think I am too.

.