Reviews (page 2 of 12)
10/10 see why he's a goat
Love the movie, “Ray” but I’ve never heard his music frfr. This was an extremely beautiful album that seamlessly transitioned from one song to the next. His beautiful voice paired with the medley of instruments made this something special. 10/10
Este álbum me acompañó en mi día de lluvia en la ciudad, romance cada minuto. Lo amé, me sentí parte de una película en blanco y negro
YES !!!!!!!!!! YES !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! YES !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Absolutely immaculate album from start to finish. The title of the album wasn't lying.
so great - worthy of a vinyl
Voice like silk married to great big band jazz. Brilliant
Damn!
my nipples are hard
Oké ik ben er weer!! Ga even de oude albums pick en choosen!!! Ben heeeeel erg opgegroeid met ray Charles!!! Hij is zo zo zo zo goed!!! Am I blue is prachtig, it had to be you ook! Zo veel ziel. Arrangeur was Quincy Jones en hij is een van m’n allergrootste voorbeelden, dus ben enorm aan het genieten. Ja iconisch
Belíssimo álbum!
9/10
It was in fact genius
Amazing. This is my first time listening to concentrated Ray Charles and - 10/10, would listen again
A tasteful decision in the vinyl era, the Yin-yang presentation allowed the listener to decide the mood. So much to love on this beautiful album.
really enjoyed
Divine Next winter I'd like to hibernate inside this album
What am I supposed to do, not enjoy Ray Charles?
One of my new favorite albums of all time. It fits perfectly on my “love for music” shelf that I never knew I had space for. An album better than this will be difficult, I can die happy. 100/100 if I can change the grading scale.
j'adore ray charles dsll😸😸😸
It's right there in the title, The Genius Of Ray Charles how can we argue with that.
Good album
Immediately incredible, I expected nothing less, I'd have loved this as much at 15 as I am right now, but I'm a sucker for a crooner and I always was, aspirationally. The real emotional foothold of the album tho is cemented, like a boot in when concrete, by 'You Won't Let Me Go', my god this one hit.
Now THIS is what I’m talking about. This is a golden album. I loved every song. The soul, the instrumental arrangements, the voice made of honey and soul, the pure unfiltered yearning. It’s perfect. The Genius of Ray Charles was definitely an album fairly named. I’m a bit fan of 50s-60s slow jazz and this album is one of the better ones I’ve come across. Easy 5 stars.
Fantastic
Kaufen
Love everything about this album. I want it playing all the time.
Einfach großartig
best album so far
HOW CAN ONE MAN HAVE SO MUCH TALENT?
No comment really needed. Perfectly example of why he's ranked in the Top 10 Greatest Artists of All Time.
I don’t think I’ve ever listened to a Ray Charles album before this did not disappoint I really enjoyed it
Liked it.
Absolutely beautiful!! Loved it. Will definitely listen again and I’m excited to discover more Ray Charles.
This is an incredible album. He was a very talented artist, this album is here to testify that. I like big band and this delivers with soulful, bluesy, R&B/jazz perfection. I realise a lot of the tracks are re-interpretations of jazz/pop standards, but you can't deny his performance and delivery are sublime. The fact that this was recorded in the 50s with a live ensemble, some tape and, quite clearly, an exceptional team of sound and recording engineers just adds to the overall enjoyment.
Absolutely bloody fantastic. Now THIS is a bit of me. Front to back, a short album on the face of it, but what it lacks in longevity, it makes up for with it’s banger after banger quality. A solid LP. I love this and it will be staying in my library for future enjoyment. Yes please !
This album is great... I mean, it's Ray Charles. There are fantastic songs on here, and there is too much quality too, so all the songs add a bit of greatness to the overall feeling. And what an overall! This album has amazing songs!
What an icon.
The word genius gets overused but not when it comes to Ray Charles. A musician and composer who crossed genres deserves every accolade that has come his way.
A classic. Ray Charles is a gift to pop music. This album is superb. A 5.
Ray Charles. Enough said.
My wedding song is on this so five stars
The album for world end
What else can you expect? It’s Jazz! Love it! So classy! Hehe
I could often predict what kind of sound would come next, especially in the first or second track. Even so, I enjoyed this album a lot. For me, jazz music used to feel calm and a bit boring, but this album was awesome.
Quintessential Ray Charles. Just perfect
no notes.
🔥🔥🔥
This was really good! Vibes: Fallout wasteland, classic comfort I could listen to this one all day
As the album says Ray Charles is a genius
Uma obra prima do maior pianista cego da história. Eu sou completamente apaixonado com a sonoridade do jazz clássico. Exatamente o que esse álbum trás. O vocal do Ray Charles é tão bom que impressiona até mesmo pessoas como eu, que preferem o jazz instrumental. Difícil escolher a melhor e pior por ser um álbum tão consistente. Melhor do álbum: "Let the Good Times Roll". Pior do álbum: "When Your Lover Has Gone".
Premium album, no skips
very good album, i loved his voice and the lyrics were very relatable.
Perfection
This has my wedding song on it so automatic five stars
Classic
GENIUS of RAY CHARLES is very apropos. His music is and ALWAYS has been the creation of a TRUE GENIUS 🙏🏻🎶🎶
This is so fun and so jazzy! I have already recommended this album to like 3 people. It is a lotta fun. This is a solid 4.5. The big band is GREAT! Liked Songs: "Let the Good Times Roll" , "Alexander's Ragtime Band" , "Two Years of Torture" , "Deed I Do" , "Just for a Thrill" , "You Won't Let Me Go" , "Tell Me You'll Wait for Me" , "Don't Let the Sun Catch You Cryin' " , "Am I Blue" , "Come Rain or Come Shine"
QUE LINDO ES EL JAZZZ!! que viva el jazz, te hace sentir enamorado y flotando. un 10 el disco
I love this album!
j'ai adoré, vraiment mon style, ça faisait longtemps que j'avais pas écouté du ray charles en plus de cela
Summed up perfectly by it's title
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Love the instrumentals. Romantic listen for rainy evening.
I mean, it's ray charles!!
ВАУ
Amazing! Alexander’s Ragtime Bad is the best! Just for a thrill 😍 dont let the sun - love love loveeee
absolutely true - his genius demonstrated here, put on the record for all time, with magnificent arrangements and a beautiful range of vocals, from tender to commanding. 5 stars
Really good
An actual perfect album omfg
4.5/5
ja gewoon genieten
A lot of the 3 and 4 star comments mention that this is essentially just a cover album and isn’t even the best that Ray Charles has to offer. This is easily a perfect 5/5 for me for how soulful it all is. This is the kind of thing that reminds me how much I love blues and jazz and that realm of music, for as much of a punk or metal head I might be. If this isn’t the best he has to offer, I’m excited to hear the rest of his catalogue.
Yeah, this is Ray Charles. Its amazing by default.
classic. seasonal. mood.
pure genius
It ages very well. I like this jazzy swinging pop. Very good vocal performance too. Come rain or come shine really pushed it to a five. Loved it! Beautiful album!
The man truly was a genius. Right in the sweet spot for runtime. There were no huge standouts but that’s not really an issue because I thought every song was fantastic. Easy five stars.
Absolutely brilliant. Loved every bit of it. Some old school swing an ting
"An American TREASURE... the dynamic FORCE that was Ray Charles... a guy who could play his @$$ off... Blues, Jazz, anything... a guy who could write songs like "What'd I Say" and "Hallelujah I Love Her So"... and a man... who was maybe the GREATEST MALE SINGER in history... that is debatable... but, that he was one of them is, surely, not... on this album, he is interpreting songs like no other... i chuckle when i hear a non-artist, or limited one, deride "cover artists" lol... there are people paid to play familiar songs in a bar... that's a cover band... to INTERPRET a cover is a completely different thing... and Ray Charles is as good as it gets... his vocals display everything you want to hear... it's impeccably accurate... gravelly, gruff, clear, at will... and the SOUL dripping out of it... when i HATED Beyonce doing "country"... i EASILY accepted this genius' version of the genre... anyway... long story short... FIVE STARS forever... one of the greatest musicians and artists of our time."
Awesome!
This was fabulous. Love the instrumentals, especially all the horns!
After Louis Armstrong, Ray Charles broadcasted the most important male voice in the history of popular music. I'd like to add Robert Johnson's, but his is not a crossover in the way Louis's or Ray's is. Then again, perhaps 'crossover' is not precise enuf - above all else, Ray is the foremost genius of integration, engendering a style that fused blues, gospel, jazz, and those early expressions of rock 'n' roll: soul music, in other words. If you require evidence of his unusual and necessary power, listen to the final moments of 'Just for a Thrill' when the man pushes and grunts his way to a sublime capture of feeling. This record is particularly thrilling, featuring jazz greats like Clark Terry, Paul Gonsalves, and Zoot Sims on side one.
I enjoyed this from front to back. Ray Charles was a treasure!
All killer. No filler. No matter what I'm currently listening to, I know I can put this album on as an instant audio palate cleanser. The album starts off like gangbusters with "Let the Good Times Roll" and keeps the pace up with the massive horn arrangements and high energy big band. But, as the album continues on, the music gets more soulful and jazzy. The string arrangements are absolutely beautiful. Ray Charles is just the epitome of soul. There are so many great songs on this record but I suppose my favorite is "Just for a Thrill."
just wow
Lovely and warming
Fak, dobr začetek - trobente, the whole big band, po pa Charles začne pet. Kr amazing. ("Let the Good Times Roll") Sledi mu mirnejši "It Had to Be You". Od kerga je to originalno? (O waw, originalen komad je iz 1924.) Pač, mene algoritem razvaja že čist predolg. Ful mam rada big band shit pa 50s pop. In nimam nekih posebnih pripomb, kle bo vsak komad dober & v dokaj podobnem si stilu. "Just for a Thrill" je fakin cozy s subdued bobni, klavirjem in ženskim zborčkom back vokalov. Sam sneg bi mogu še padat, ampak vsaj kamin mam zalaufan. Isti vajb je z "Don't Let the Sun Catch You Cryin'". In skor vsemi komadi. Pač, get cozy & enjoy.
The title is audacious, but it was a really excellent album.
It ain’t bragging if it’s true. There are times where I feel very fortunate to have lived in a world with Ray Charles music in it.
Really enjoyed this.
Me ha encantado. Hay momentos de rock and roll o lo que yo percibo así que me han recordado a Elvis.
Oh wow. I get it now, how Ray Charles could be such a beloved artist. He is masterful and soulful and commanding, while being subdued. Having not listened to much Ray Charles before, I want to listen to more. The orchestration and vocals behind him are complementary and never overpowering. Such an incredible singer and artist. Genius of Ray Charles, indeed!
It's Ray Charles. He's a genius
Never really explored his music. I expected this to be good, but wow - what a voice and orchestration. Fantastic songs!
This album feels like what a beautiful Sunday morning should be.
Genius Indeed.
Fireeeeee I love a trumpet yesssir this is my jam
yes mate!
La música de los años 50 nos queda tan lejana que solo reparamos en ella cuando la escuchamos de fondo en una película y quizás reparamos en alguna pieza clásica. No nos damos cuenta que de allí viene casi todo lo demás. De todos los estilos que se pusieron de moda en aquel tiempo, el swing es el que siempre me ha emocionado más, y si va acompañado del sonido de una big band ya me enamora. Este disco tiene un primera parte de ese estilo y una segunda parte llena de baladas con arreglos de , otro rollo. Sea como fuere, el hilo conductor es la magnífica calidad interpretativa del monstruo de la música que es Ray Charles. Un maestro que hay que revistar de vez en cuando.
I’m at a 5. It’s not as consistently dazzling as “Modern Sounds in Country and Western Music” (and honestly, I’m not sure there’s a track here that quite hits the highs of that album), but it’s a damn fine album regardless. Ray’s voice doesn’t quite maintain the same level of charisma, the band’s not as sharp (& the split between big band / strings for each half feels a little disconnected), and it just doesn’t feel as tightly knit as it could be. Regardless, I think the music & the vibe speak for itself here. These aren’t bombastic takes on country songs, these are dinner / nightclub vibes, with Ray Charles here to regale with his sad tales of lost love & broken hearts. Admittedly, it does start to feel a little stale/same-y by the end of it, but I found myself pretty emotionally in sync for a lot of the album. Since it is sort of a one-note, “let the music speak for itself” kind of album, I’m just not sure I have that much to say. I wish it were as good as “Modern Sounds” was, but even if it’s not, it’s still a 5 for my ears. Ray Charles’ lyrics are good, his vocals still carry a suaveness & natural charm even if the charisma isn’t fully there (there’s certainly parts where it shines through), and when the big band is truly rolling in the first half (or the strings in the second half), I think it’s an absolutely lovely listen. I wouldn’t blame anyone for going down to a 4 (or honestly, even finding a sort of “boredom” spot if each style bounces off & going all the way down to a 3). I enjoyed it a lot, though, hence the 5.
Rating: 4.8/5 Short Review: It’s not just genius — it’s effortless genius. The kind that makes you think you could pull it off too, until you try and immediately embarrass yourself. Favorite Track: “Come Rain or Come Shine” — a slow-burn torch song that melts you like a wax candle at a speakeasy.
Very solid album, great tunes. Big band style, just like my father liked it. That's for you, dad.
Big fan, will add to regular rotation
9.3
I never gave this kind of music much of a chance, I listened to the album twice, and I really like it. The music is so interesting and full, without the words it’s written well enough to convey emotions so strongly, and when we add the lyrics back in, it only makes it stronger. I have heard versions of It Had To Be You before, I do love that song and his version was just as beautiful. I enjoyed the second half of the album more than the first. Reflective and wishful music. You Won’t Let Me Go, Tell Me You’ll Wait For Me, I really enjoyed those both. And the songs that came after just continued those same feelings. If you are looking to get into your feelings, this album is very good for that!
I like Stevie Wonder’s experimental stuff, but I far prefer Ray Charles. Also, kinda weird that they threw the two blind black piano players back-to-back…
Swing along with this masterpiece! Ray Charles's genius lies in his ability to sing big band songs and string-backed ballads.Beautiful big band energetic arrangements along with nostalgic,dreamy string ones!What can go wrong?Jazzy magic.I give it a 4/5 cause i'm not really into jazz(yet).
fantastic
Awesome
great, makes you move, really nice
Great album!
Way jazzier than I expected. Think Frank Sinatra
What an amazing piece of work. Quality and timeless. A true gem!
Super Dope
Ray til I die.
Amazing!
But how can he hear the music if he's blind...?
Ah... the 50's... There's a feeling of nostalgia and glamour that music from that decade exales. Ray Charles was indeed a genius.
I just understood what music is supposed to be. The kind of music that makes me want to share it with everyone I know AND everyone I don't.
This is such a feel good exhilarating album
The album is aptly named
To put it nicely…it was the most relaxing and car ride to work I’ve had in a long time. Never was really familiar with Ray Charles except for his famous songs and the amount of times he’s been sampled but man….incredible record. Absolutely incredible. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
chill 5/5
Listened to it all day!
The title says it all. This is pure brilliance from start to finish. The big band swings, the strings swoon, and Ray’s voice glides over it all like velvet. Absolute genius.
I'd give 4 songs on the album a 10 if I could. Smooth, Sensual and Invokes memories of those loves gone wrong. Enjoyed every second of listening to Ray Charles.
Adorei
Pretty great
Pure bliss, love the singing, the big band arrangements, and the song choices. Would love to own this on vinyl.
Sure
Amazing vocals from the man himself, starts off more uptempo and slows down as the album progresses but that doesn’t diminish it at all, it’s a very satisfying listening experience
So good.
que du classique, beaucoup de très beaux solos
Excellent, no notes.
Excellent album — compelled to buy the vinyl of it. My only complaint is the mixing on the first half (yeesh do those trumpets get blown out), but the piano ballads in the back half more than make up for it. The kind of music I’d like to hear while on a fancy date out on the town in the 60’s. Beautiful.
thank god im not blind like ray charles otherwise i couldnt play fortnite
This is awesome
Everything about this album feels grand- from the big band stylings on the front half of the album, to the swelling orchestra on “tell me you’ll wait for me”. However, all the theatrics are dull compared to the raw emotion carried in Ray’s voice. He brings life to the lyrics, and everything else is just there to compliment it.
I really liked this album! Listened to it in a square in Brussels on a Thursday evening and it was the perfect vibe. The many different instruments at the start of each piece were cool. The buzzy trumpets were a bit much in the first song but I liked everything after that.
Genius
Excellent.
What's not to love?
Amazing production
Good
vier bis fünf
Growing up, I had a Ray Charles Greatest Hits Album that I truly enjoyed. As I've grown older, I realized how much great music wasn't on there. Amazingly, NONE of these songs were on there. Thrilled to be listening to this. Let the Good Times Roll- was this song made famous by Ray Charles? It feels like an American standard, in the way that Stagger Lee and Summertime Blues are standards It Had to Be You Alexander's Ragtime Band Two Years of Torture- how much Black love has been documented in popular music, especially by an artist this prominent and in this era? When Your Lover Has Gone Deed I Do- I haven't mentioned the big band aspect of this album- was he inspired by Duke Ellington? I often think of Charles as a solo artist, but the band really shines on this album Just for a Thrill You Won't Let Me Go Tell Me You'll Wait for Me Don't Let the Sun Catch You Cryin' Am I Blue Come Rain or Come Shine I loved this- I will listen to it again. The best part about the entire list is knowing there is stuff out there you are missing and then finding a way to listen to it.
XD The arrogance is deserved imho
Terrific Ray, jazzy and swingy with a mix of soul. Would share with anyone
Great listen!
this pretty much was amazing
Splendid.
Just great at what it does, and highly pleasurable to listen to. Those big horn wails maybe aren't for me, but it's hard to complain about it.
There is something about the soul in his voice and the orchestration of these songs that gets. A record i would like to own on vinyl.
The Big Band sound does not mess around! Let the Good Times Roll is such a slapping intro to this album from that first powerful blast of brass. The ballads work well, too; Ray's voice has such character that it is never boring or plaintive. This is a great album, maybe has a bit less character than some of his more successful offerings but is honestly a great listen.
See the thing is Ray has been labeled a genuis since inception and I don't think anyone can disagree. Beautiful arrangements, melodies seeped in dark blue meloncholy, but with enough hope to keep the audience entertained. Another album that makes me nostalgic for a time I've never lived in.
Great album, when I came back around to the beginning I just let it keep playing thru a second and into a third time. Awesome voice, great backing band/strings
Who am I to argue with an album title.
#0032: Swinging Ray of Love This album made me believe in love again. I love music from the 50s for this reason. The arrangements, the swing-pop jazz, the vocals, and of course Ray Charles on the piano. This album immediately transports me to my favourite black and white films where love and romance were at its peak. Just makes me want to wear a beautiful sundress and dance in the rain. Or slow dance with a loved one late night at home with ambient lighting. As many already mentioned, the album has two sides. Side A has more orchestration with swing/jazz arrangements, while Side B is more somber and slow and intimate. And I enjoyed this flow. Usually lyrics tend to go right over my head, but perhaps it’s the way things were sung in the 1950s with that slight transatlantic accent, the enunciation, makes it easy to follow along, and all the lyrics just touch my heart in a romantic warm loving way. It’s gentle, sweet and beautiful. I really enjoyed the album musically and lyrically. Instantly, this album has become a classic for me that I want to keep revisiting. It’s short and sweet, easy listening. Perfect for a cafe, or just a romantic evening when it rains outside. It’s beautiful. Standout Tracks: “It Had To Be You”, “Alexander’s Ragtime Band”, “Two Years of Torture”, “Just For A Thrill”, “You Won’t Let Me Go”, and “Don’t Let The Sun Catch You Cryin’”.
Does exactly what it says in the box - it's Ray Charles, he's a genius, here it is.
I only knew of Ray Charles from his later career, had no idea about this "big band" era. Very nice! Showcases his incredible vocal range and style.
This album lives up to its title! The Genius of Ray Charles is a fantastic listen from start to finish. It jumps out at you right away with bold arrangements and Ray’s unmistakable voice, pulling you in with every track. The fusion of jazz, soul, and big band energy is electric, and it feels like you're hearing a master at the peak of his creative power. Honestly, this is an all-time great jazz album, and a perfect example of why Ray Charles is such a towering figure in music history.
Espectacular. Me había salido en esta lista un álbum doble de Charles que me había parecido un tanto aburrido, pero nada que ver con The Genius of Ray Charles. Una maravilla que exprime lágrimas de mi dolido corazón.
i told my self i would be sparing with my fives, but this is already my second one.. i absolutely love this album, i think its more than deserving of it tho-- banger after banger after banger!!! i love playing this era of jazz/ big band stuff but ive never quite gone out of my way to listen to it/ never knew where to look for it. the answer is here!! and im so glad i found it. i genuinely believe that this is a perfect album. every single note! chord! tone! are so thoughtfully written/ played and i find it so incredible and genius how it slowly moves from big band ballady pieces to mellow orchestral stuff. ive been recording all the songs i think are real 10/10s to save them for some kind of big function one day. wedding? who knows. i can't even pick a top 3 this time, they're all insane. 🥉come rain or shine, when your love has gone🥈'deed i do🥇let the good times roll
What a talent, couldn't keep my foot still the entire ride.
Some real nice music to listen to here. What else would you expect from one of the greats.
Wistful and sweet album
I loved this, but I'm more in music for the instrumentals and am a slut for those big band arrangements with some good jazz/blues mixed in. Would gladly listen to the whole album again (and did several times).
Once you get over the fact that every track sounds like the theme from "Police Squad," this is pretty amazing. His voice is absurd. "Let The Good Times Roll" could well make it to my funeral playlist.
very easy listening, good to get back into it
I mean, it's Ray Charles. It's called The Genius of Ray Charles for a reason.
Can't put Ray Charles in one genre - he does jazz, gospel, rock, blues and blends them so well. Favorite track: Don't let the sun catch you crying other picks: it had to be you, deed i do, am i blue, come rain or come shine
Genius, indeed.
Amazing album. Kept me engaged. I really liked a lot of it.
ray charles
Beautiful
All classics on this album. Songs by André and Dory Previn, Irving Berlin, Fred Rose, Johnny Mercer, and others. 12 songs - 6 with a string orchestra, 6 with a tight jazz band. A very good album. A very calming album. This version of DON'T LET THE SUN CATCH YOU CRYING far outshines any other. Excellent excellent production by Jerry Wexler and Nesuhi Ertegun. I'm gonna give this 5 stars. I don't know when I'll listen to it again, but it is just so good. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ ________________________________ 🎧 LPs reviewed: 76 🎧 LPs left to review: 925 🎧 LPs I found great/relevant enough to be mandatory listens (5): 18 🎧 LPs I *might* include in my own list (4): 19 🎧 LPs I will certainly *not* include in mine (1-2): 20
Really phenomenal example of the genre and the artist.
Well that's just great, now my ears are pregnant.
INCREIBLE
So beautiful. This album seems to show off his skills as an arranger rather than a piano savant but it's just so beautiful
"The Genius of Ray Charles" is an album that left me speechless, such is the depth and beauty of its compositions. Ray Charles' talent is a true breath of fresh air for turbulent hearts, providing a musical experience that transcends time and emotion. Each track resonates with a sincerity and passion that touches the soul, reaffirming his status as one of music's greatest geniuses.
4.5
Great cooking music
Mmm... Ray Charles
Ray Charles is great. I even don't have to justify it.
heard many times, unique
What an icon, beautiful voice, backup vocals and band
blind dudes make the best music confirmed. gotta listen again!
You can make a pretty strong argument that, save the pure jazz albums, all of the music on this list owed something to Ray Charles. And side 1 of this album proves he could stand toe-to-toe with the jazz greats too. I prefer his birth of R&B recordings with Atlantic. But these two sides, like almost everything he did, are fantastic.
You can't go wrong with uncle Ray! Thank you for this reminder.
Like everyone I have heard of Ray, his important in the history of popular music and have heard greatest hits. But a proper album put out by the man, with his arrangements! This is as the title says. He takes any type of song and makes it Ray Charles. Don’t give me any shit about the 50s style and production, this is timeless. This is such a great listen today in 2025. My 1st 5 star of something I hadn’t heard before. This is just a joy.
As the album says, he is a genius. Not my normal or favorite type of music but still a good listen.
Coming up: The TRUE genius of Ray Charles; The Genius (Ray Charles); Ray Charles, the greatest; The amazing genius Ray Charles; one-in-a-lifetime genius Ray Charles; the super duper iper giga genius Ray Charles; and more…
Awesome big band blues sound. Ray Charles has an incredible voice. Some of the most powerful love songs I've heard. I ended up adding 3 songs from this album to my main playlist.
An absolute joy to listen to. This is the kind of music where you know the people who made it just love music and have fun making it. It’s called SOUL for a REASON Mate. My girlfriend insists that he wasn’t actually blind and was just pretending as a bit but it got out of hand and he had to keep it up.
This was great, so classic. I loved it and listened to it twice. Ray Charles is such a great performer and it was captured flawlessly on this album. Five stars, easily.
This is the 3rd album I’m rating. I haven’t heard many Ray Charles songs but I did watch the movie with Jamie Foxx. It’ll be interesting to listen to a full album of his for the first time. Let the Good Times Roll - Adding to my Playlist. This is a sound that I’m very familiar with and I love it. It Had to be You - Adding to my Playlist. I have a feeling I’m going to love this album because I love classic pop. Alexander’s Ragtime Band - Not Adding to my Playlist. I’ve always liked this song but I’ve never heard this version. I prefer the version by the Andrews Sisters. This song is good but not as good as the Andrews Sisters version. Two Years of Torture - Adding to my Playlist. I’ve always loved big band jazz. When Your Lover Has Gone - Not Adding to my Playlist. I don’t like the vocals in this song. Deed I Do - Adding to my Playlist. Not much to say other than, it’s jazz. Just for a Thrill - Adding to my Playlist. Side Two switching things up. I don’t like it as much as side one but it’s pretty good. You Won’t Let Me Go - Adding to my Playlist. So far side two is looking pretty good. Tell Me You’ll Wait For Me - Not Adding to my Playlist. The song is kinda boring. Don’t Let the Sun Catch You Cryin’ - Adding to my Playlist. Not a big fan of his singing in this song but the strings arr pretty good. Am I Blue - Not Adding to my Playlist. The singing is a bit annoying. Come Rain or Come Shine - Adding to my Playlist. The singing is better. All in all I liked 8/12 of the songs. This is pretty good all around and despite the fact I added four songs from each side I much prefer side one.
Ray Charles is my kind of music. Bangers like Let the Good Times Roll and It Had to Be You. Some hidden gems too. Some reviewers commented that they didn't like the big band sound...I love that stuff. Not sure what they're talking about...Ray's voice is clear, strong, and not drowned out.
come rain or come shine is probably one of the best songs I've heard through this challenge. the man meant genius. I love it
Absolute classic.
genius.
Go ahead. Give Ray Charles less than a five. I fucking DARE you!! 5
Las Big Banda y sus poderosos y variados metales le dan la fuera a Ray a hacer jazz, blues de una forma mágica
Music that can’t be denied no matter how hard you try. The classics will always be classic!!
the great Ray Charles, can't never go wrong.
Great listening yesterday. One of my favorite albums I've never heard from this app. It was a time machine, but still relevant and a classic style. Great music for a dinner party in your mid century modern home.
I wasn’t expecting the album to open with a song like Let the Good Times Roll. Ray really attacks those vocals, delivering a rip-roaring opener that immediately sets the tone. The first half of this album is dedicated to Ray performing Big Band classics, and it’s absolutely wonderful. The songs are so joyous and expertly played, filled with energy and life. There’s such a lovely quality to Ray’s voice—it’s hard to describe, but it’s almost like a singing saxophone, warm and full of expression. The second half swaps out the horn section for a string orchestra, creating a much more subdued atmosphere. It’s unusual to see an album with two such distinct halves, and it ends up feeling almost like two separate EPs. That said, the quality of the music never falters. The orchestration is rich and lush, washing over you like a warm blanket. Standout Track: Let the Good Times Roll / Come Rain or Come Shine (it only feels right to pick one from each side) Score: 5/5
It's just great. The clarity of his voice carries across the decades and feels so intimate.
Ray is getting 5s. Hope he shows up again.
Fantastic; absolutely beautiful.
So fun to hear a big band Ray album!
let the good times roll
wow
Probably the best example of the style, so it gets a 5
It's all so similarly beautiful. His voice is just fantastic.
The most accurately named album ever - this is genius
Makes cool seem effortless
Beautiful
One of my favorite blind R&B musicians, next to Stevie Wonder of course. God Ray Charles really is a genius. Thanks for writing my states theme song!
Ray Charles is a peerless figure in american music. His genius for blending jazz, blues, country and performing with such genuine emotion and musicality is something I find so moving. Unfortunately, I don’t think this album entirely showcases the best of Ray Charles, and I hope this isn’t his only album on the list. Some of the big band arrangements on the first half of the album feel a bit schmaltzy and lacking in creativity. It’s still not bad listening by any means - I’d give the first half a 3 ⭐️ rating. The second half of this album, on the other hand, is flawless. It showcases Charles’s iconic sound and highlights his beautiful, plaintive vocals with instrumentation that always complements and highlights, and never detracts from or upstages, Charles’s performance. The latter six songs are easily 5 ⭐️. On the whole, I think the second half more than makes up for my gripes over the first half. If I didn’t know of Ray Charles beforehand, I’m sure I would’ve liked the first half more, but I am prejudiced by knowing how much more of his catalog is cut from the same cloth as the back half of this album. That being considered, I think it’s unfair for me to rate this less than 5 ⭐️. 9/10
An absolute pleasure to listen to. Not what I normally go to, but this lead to a very chill and productive morning at work.
It's Ray Charles.
Genius indeed
Really enjoyed this. From the big band sounds to Ray Charles' incredible voice. So good
Classic. Smooth. A true masterpiece
9.5/10! I am a jazz musician, so this rating is a no-brainer. Great for active listening or background music. Snooky Young on the lead trumpet is unbeatable. Ray Charles’s blues combined with a star-studded big band and a fantastic string orchestra make every song on this album a joy to listen to.
Ray Charles is the man.
Fantastic. Not for kids!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
The God Ray 🥰
Love Ray Charles, love this album and own it on vinyl. The voice is unmatched, the piano playing and arranging are spectacular its its just a seriously good album
unfair to all the other albums in the world really
Genius is the word
Stunner
I tend to dislike 50s music because of how dated it sounds. This album, however, felt timeless. Not sure if it’s been remastered, but the audio was incredibly crisp. I love it.
Great
So this album definitely demonstrates why Ray was a legend. For me, it could've used more up-tempo bangers. Stuff that moves. But the song-writing, arrangements, and production are all top-notch. I can appreciate it if I don't actually want to ever listen to it again.
This was great, really joyous. I loved the Jazzy parts particularly.
genius
This album is magical, the arrangment is so beautiful it feels like you have been thrown into a vintage disney film. It feels so serene and nostalgic at the same time. This certainly is Ray Charles's genius.
Ray always gets 5...he is my favorite artist
No argument here, the man was a genius. Two records here, bombastic big band for the first half and swirling strings for the second half all topped off with his distinctive voice. Great.
Fav: It Had to Be You Least Fav: Tell Me You'll Wait for Me
perfect for what is
Great album, the soul R&B from Charles’ voice along with the big band sound were amazing.
A classic album that was enjoyable from start to finish. The drop off if any was extremely minute unlike other albums on this list which start strong and then a bomb hits it and it stinks
love the big band sound with Ray's voice. 'Deed I Do, Don't Let the Sun Catch you Crying, and Come Rain or Shine are excellent. he's a great storyteller with his voice.
This nigga spittin. Too bad he couldn’t see the spit, too
The title says it all. Great album
Excellent album. Enjoyed it a lot.
Relaxing soulful and smooth. Vocals and instrumental flawless.
Is genius. 5/5
The genius of Ray Charles indeed
Very big band style with smooth and sultry singing - love it!
nice
There isn't a single bad note on this album. Yes, he was a genius.
If your G-Ma was born in 1940, you’re probably the direct result of “It Had to be You” I love this as a reference point of the genre
Big band Ray Charles is something special, love it all. First half is big band and second strings. Stand out tracks: - Let the good times roll - It had to be you - Alexander's ragtime band - When your lover has gone - You won't let me go
This is easily the best album i have gotten so far, i love jazz music and ray charles is one of the greatest jazz musicians ever
One of the best to ever do it. Ray’s has such a delicate balance of power and vulnerability, I can’t help but feel sentimental listening to him. Catch many songs on this album at my wedding date TBD.
Masterpiece. Felt like I was in a dreamland the entire listen.
I liked this a lot, not sure when I would put it on in my regular music listening day, but this is good. I forgot how nice and smooth Ray's voice is.
Now that’s what I call jazz
Ray is always a joy to listen to. Great stuff.
I mean, he really was a genius.
I was pretty sad today, and even his sad songs made me feel better about it.
Really enjoyed this one—great instrumentals and soulful vocals. Will listen to this album again for sure.
i loveeee the instrumentals
Wonderful!
What an amazing, amazing voice. Crazy to think he was just 29 when this was released. He already sounded like an old jazz and blues legend. Plus, his piano playing is as smooth as his voice. Every track is good, but I particularly loved the mellow mood of side two. I thought about pulling a point away for repetition - every song on side one has high trumpet shakes and every song on side two has schmaltzy strings (and sometimes cheesy backing vocals). But I'm giving that point back, because Brother Ray is a joy to listen to, and this is his only album on the 1001. Favorite tracks: Let the Good Times Roll (no, not the Cars song, but this one's great too!), It Had to Be You (sure it's a standard, but he owns it), Just for a Thrill, Tell Me You'll Wait for Me, Don't Let the Sun Catch You Cryin'.
Greatness in all it's glory!
Such a great singer.
I love ray Charles
He’s so cool. I really like this album
Nice and smooth. Might add this to my rotation on a rainy day.
This can go on every day! Background, foreground, wherever you like
Even though I had heard a few Ray Charles songs, I was absolutely blown away by this album! So thankful I got to experience it!
Love this! I could listen to this all day. Rays voice and his expression throughout each song is a joy to behold. More of the same please.
Why not! Perfect performances, recorded perfectly, of absolute classic standards.
Very buttery jazz tones. Timeless and classic.
Ray Charles is iconic. He’s an awesome musician, and had a much celebrated career. Love his music!
Incredible work, not my personal vibe but for what this is it's perfect
So very good
10. I love Ray Charles
Enjoyed it
Ray Charles is great, band is great. Awesome early R&B
He really is a genius
Stellar big band soulfully made album, love it. Great listening to when cleaning and moving out!
liked this so much i listened to it twice. what a voice
This will require several further listens cause the first two were incredible. There's some serious Wizard of Oz fairytale dream sequence swooning twilight zone mystery going on throughout but especially from the second half onward. Am I Blue is a straight up beautiful piece of music. Also what are the chances of the last two albums in a row (this and the cars) both having the same title track.
Not much to say except I love the title.
Really enjoyed it, always love jazz. I was thinking about romance while listening so it definitely worked its magic lol
Love his voice and the big band era. Beautiful album!!
This was an easy 5 for me. What an amazing performer!! His band elevated his words so much! “Just for a thrill” was one of my favorites.
Un genio. Me encantó. Aunque tiene mejores álbunes.
No notes
The Genius of Ray Charles" is a seminal album by the legendary musician Ray Charles, released in 1959. It is widely regarded as one of his finest works, showcasing his remarkable talents as a singer, pianist, and arranger. The album blends various genres, including jazz, rhythm and blues, and gospel, into a cohesive and innovative musical experience. Here's an in-depth review focusing on lyrics, music, production, themes, and influence, along with the pros and cons of the album. Lyrics: Ray Charles's lyrical content in "The Genius of Ray Charles" reflects a range of emotions and experiences. His ability to infuse raw emotion into his singing brings the lyrics to life, whether he's singing about love, heartbreak, or joy. Tracks like "Let the Good Times Roll" and "It Had to Be You" exude a sense of exuberance and celebration, while songs like "Come Rain or Come Shine" and "Don't Let the Sun Catch You Cryin'" delve into themes of resilience and perseverance in the face of adversity. Charles's delivery is soulful and heartfelt, drawing listeners into the stories he tells with his expressive voice. Music: The musical arrangements on this album are nothing short of masterful. Ray Charles's virtuosity as a pianist is on full display, with intricate melodies and dynamic rhythms weaving throughout each track. His innovative blending of jazz, blues, and gospel elements creates a rich and dynamic sound that is both timeless and groundbreaking. The backing instrumentation, featuring lush strings, punchy horns, and tight rhythms, complements Charles's vocals perfectly, adding depth and texture to the overall sound. The album's musical diversity keeps the listener engaged from start to finish, with each track offering something new and exciting to discover. Production: "The Genius of Ray Charles" benefits from top-notch production, courtesy of legendary producer Sid Feller. Feller's keen ear for detail and expert guidance help to bring out the best in Charles's performances, capturing the raw energy and emotion of each song while maintaining a polished and professional sound. The album's production values are ahead of their time, with crisp, clear instrumentation and balanced mixes that allow every element of the music to shine. Feller's collaboration with Charles results in a cohesive and cohesive sonic experience that stands as a testament to their combined talents. Themes: Thematically, "The Genius of Ray Charles" explores a wide range of topics, from love and heartache to joy and resilience. Charles's lyrics often touch on universal themes that resonate with listeners of all backgrounds, making the album accessible and relatable to a diverse audience. At its core, the album celebrates the human experience in all its complexity, offering glimpses into the highs and lows of life through the lens of Charles's unique perspective. Whether he's singing about the ecstasy of newfound love or the pain of heartbreak, Charles approaches each theme with honesty and authenticity, drawing listeners into his world with every note. Influence: "The Genius of Ray Charles" has had a profound influence on generations of musicians across a wide range of genres. Charles's innovative blending of musical styles helped to break down racial barriers in the music industry, paving the way for future artists to explore new sounds and push the boundaries of what was possible. His expressive vocal delivery and virtuosic piano playing set a standard for excellence that few have been able to match. Countless artists have cited Ray Charles as a major influence on their own work, from soul and R&B legends like Aretha Franklin and Stevie Wonder to rock and pop icons like Elton John and Billy Joel. His impact on the world of music continues to be felt to this day, making "The Genius of Ray Charles" a timeless classic that remains relevant and influential. Pros: Exceptional musical talent displayed by Ray Charles as both a vocalist and pianist. Innovative blending of jazz, blues, and gospel elements, creating a unique and groundbreaking sound. Top-notch production values that capture the raw energy and emotion of Charles's performances. Lyrically rich songs that explore a wide range of universal themes, making the album accessible and relatable. Significant influence on future generations of musicians across various genres, solidifying its status as a timeless classic. Cons: Some listeners may find the album's production to be somewhat dated compared to modern recordings. Limited stylistic diversity may not appeal to listeners who prefer more experimental or avant-garde music. Occasional moments of lyrical cliché or predictability may detract from the overall impact of certain songs. The album's focus on traditional musical forms may not resonate with listeners seeking more contemporary sounds. Some tracks may feel slightly repetitive or formulaic in their structure, lacking the innovation found in other parts of the album. In conclusion, "The Genius of Ray Charles" is a masterpiece of American music that showcases the immense talent and creativity of one of the greatest artists of the 20th century. From its exceptional performances and innovative arrangements to its timeless themes and enduring influence, the album stands as a testament to the genius of Ray Charles and his lasting impact on the world of music. Despite any minor flaws, it remains an essential listen for music lovers of all ages and backgrounds, cementing its status as a timeless classic that continues to inspire and delight audiences around the globe.
I loved the strings, horns, vocals, and songwriting
think it might be illegal to dislike this it makes me smile just to hear
The title says it all. A genuine one-off talent.