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. 

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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.

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The 500 - #400 - Anthology - The Temptations

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's 2012 edition of The 500 Greatest Albums of All Time. 

(On September 14, 2020, Rolling Stone released an updated version of The 500 List. I am sticking with the 2012 edition. When I get through it, I may circle back and discuss the new additions.)

Album # 400

Album Title: Anthology
Artist: The Temptations
Genre: R&B, Soul, Disco, Funk, Psychedelic Soul
Recorded: Motown Records
Released: Three Releases (1973, 1986, 1995) 
My age at release: 8
How familiar was I with it before this week: Somewhat
Song I am putting on my Spotify Mix: Papa Was A Rolling Stone

Usually, I am not a fan of "Greatest Hits" or "Compilation Anthologies" being put on The 500 list. I suppose it is because I see a conventional record as a piece of art, crafted by creators who have invested time and passion into everything from the order of the songs to the art on the front and back covers. Compilations often feel as if they have been assembled by the record company with the purpose of cashing-in on previously released material.

The original Temptations line-up (1965)

However, when it comes to The Temptations, an Anthology on this list makes perfect sense. It is an ideal way to encapsulate a 60-year career of a group that is the most successful R&B act of all time.

• 15 Number One Singles
• Three Grammy Awards
• Two American Music Awards
• A Soul Train Music Award
• The Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award
• Inducted into 
• The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame (1989)
• The NAACP Hall of Fame (1982)
• The R&B Hall of Fame (2013)

20 musicians have rotated through the band over the group's history. The Temptations have moved with the times by branching away from their Motown R&B roots to experiment with other musical genres such soul, funk, disco, rock and psychedelic fusion. Despite their longevity, the band continued to perform until the Coronavirus pandemic shuttered live venues. Otis "Big Daddy" Williams, the group's baritone, is the only surviving original member. He was also the guest on last week's episode of The 500 Podcast with Josh Adam Meyers. 

The story shared on the podcast that struck was the tragic tale of Motown Record Label's staff writer, Roger Penzabene. Penzabene wrote three hits for The Temptations, including I Wish It Would Rain and I Could Never Love Another (After Loving You). The songs, two of the most melancholy in The Temptations' expansive catalogue, were released in 1967. Penzabene crafted both from his own personal heartache. He had recently learned that his wife had been unfaithful and was leaving him. On January 31, 1967, a week after the release of I Wish It Would Rain, Penzabene took his own life. He was only 23.

Roger Penzabene (High School)

I've included that story because it is an opportunity to remind the reader that suicide is a permanent solution to a temporary problem. (The Crisis Services Canada helpline is always available at 1-833-456-4566 and the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is 1-800-273-8255).

One can only despair at the talent that was lost to the world considering, at 23, he had already penned five hit songs for Gladys Knight, Marvin Gaye and The Temptations.

Although the Penzabene songs are beautiful, I selected Papa Was A Rolling Stone on my The 500 Spotify Playlist. In part, it was because I would always be reminded of the tragic death of a remarkably talented young man if I picked Penzabene's songs. Additionally, the "psychedelic period" for The Temptations is my fascinating and "Papa" is without question, my favourite Temptations' song.