Ray Charles - The Genius Sings The Blues [Mono]

Titel

1.    Early In The Mornin'
2.    Hart Times (No ONe Knows Better Than I)
3.    The Midnight Hour
4.    The Right Time
5.    Feelin' Sad
6.    Ray's Blues
7.    I'm Movin' On
8.    I Believe To My Soul
9.    Nobody Cares
10.    Mr. Charles' Blues
11.    Some Day Baby
12.    I Wonder Who

The word 'brilliant' doesn't even begin to describe the greatness of The Genius Sings the Blues, released in 1961. Comprising a dozen songs recorded by Ray Charles between 1952 and 1960, the album was released by Atlantic Records in 1961 in response to the singer's move to rival label ABC Paramount. What Atlantic had underestimated was that the album contained many of Ray Charles's greatest songs, united by bluesy emotion and rousing arrangements. Today, The Genius Sings the Blues is considered an absolute classic of soul and R&B, offering a snapshot of the development of American music through the unforgettable rhythms, gospel roots, jazz background and Southern accents of this unique singer and pianist. The success of The Genius Sings the Blues underscores Charles's great popularity and the influence of his music. Ray Charles has sold a total of around 90 million records!

Ray Charles's interpretations of 'Early in the Mornin'', 'The Midnight Hour', 'I'm Movin' On', 'Feelin' Sad' and 'The Right Time' are timeless classics. However, it is his original blues songs that steal the show from the cover versions: 'Ray's Blues', 'I Believe To My Soul', 'Nobody Cares', 'Mr. Charles' Blues', 'Some Day Baby', and 'I Wonder Who'. These songs provide compelling proof of Charles' ability to convey both pain and joy simultaneously. His legendary piano playing takes centre stage, with bluesy riffs and rolling chords. Accompanied by his outstanding backing band, featuring soulful horns and a grooving rhythm section, the album offers an authentic and deeply felt blues experience. It is a testament to the soul of a true musical pioneer.

As part of the 'Atlantic 75 Series', Analogue Productions honours this masterful album with an impressive new edition, lovingly mastered by Bernie Grundman — proving just how good stereo mono recordings can sound.