A Portrait of Ray
Ray Charles · 1968
32 min · 10 tracks · country · jazz · R&B
A soulful blend of blues and jazz that captures Ray Charles' emotive vocal prowess and masterful piano skills.
Why this album works
- Best for
- steady mid-tempo emotional flow soulful reflections on love for intimate gatherings
- Context
- Released in 1968, 'A Portrait of Ray' came during a prolific period for Ray Charles, following his commercial resurgence with hits like 'I Can't Stop Loving You' in the early 1960s. This album showcases his ability to reinterpret contemporary songs while firmly establishing his unique sound within the soul genre.
- If you like
- country, jazz, R&B
A Portrait of Ray is an album by Ray Charles, released in 1968. A soulful blend of blues and jazz that captures Ray Charles' emotive vocal prowess and masterful piano skills. This album is significant not only for its artistic merit but also because it includes a cover of The Beatles’ 'Eleanor Rigby', showcasing Charles' innovative approach to popular music. It received critical acclaim upon release, reaffirming his position as a leading figure in American music and influencing future generations of artists across genres. Here's what makes it worth your time and what to listen to next.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does A Portrait of Ray sound like?
A soulful blend of blues and jazz that captures Ray Charles' emotive vocal prowess and masterful piano skills. Rooted in country and jazz.
What makes A Portrait of Ray by Ray Charles notable?
This album is significant not only for its artistic merit but also because it includes a cover of The Beatles’ 'Eleanor Rigby', showcasing Charles' innovative approach to popular music. It received critical acclaim upon release, reaffirming his position as a leading figure in American music and influencing future generations of artists across genres. Released in 1968, 'A Portrait of Ray' came during a prolific period for Ray Charles, following his commercial resurgence with hits like 'I Can't Stop Loving You' in the early 1960s. This album showcases his ability to reinterpret contemporary songs while firmly establishing his unique sound within the soul genre.
Who is A Portrait of Ray for?
A Portrait of Ray works well if you're into steady mid-tempo emotional flow, soulful reflections on love and for intimate gatherings.
How many songs are on A Portrait of Ray?
A Portrait of Ray has 10 tracks, running approximately 32 minutes.
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 Never Say Naw 3:00
- 2 The Sun Died Standout 3:51
- 3 Am I Blue? Standout 4:05
- 4 Yesterdays 4:34
- 5 When I Stop Dreamin’ 2:59
- 6 I Won’t Leave 3:28
- 7 A Sweet Young Thing Like You 2:10
- 8 The Bright Lights & You Girl 2:31
- 9 Understanding 3:07
- 10 Eleanor Rigby Standout 2:56
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