A National Treasure

[Frisco-Kid]

Yesterday, 10JUN04, the United States lost one of it's National Treasures with the passing of music legend, Ray Charles at age 73. He will be missed by a huge spectrum of music lovers around the world. Ray Charles left his mark on about every type of music that he chose to tackle; R&B, Soul, Jazz, Rock, Country Western. From his first big hit "I CAN'T STOP LOVING YOU", to his signature tune "GEORGIA ON MY MIND", to his rendition of "AMERICA" which has become the standard for that song, to the now more meaningful "YOU DON'T KNOW ME".

America is a little poorer for your leaving, Ray. You will be missed.

[Doc 2/47]

Truer words were never spoken.He has left behind a large and lasting imprint on music.He will not be forgotten.

[Bill Farnie]

Being a musician, as I was learning how to read and write music, I discovered Ray Charles. What a talented man and a true genius. He wrote or in his own unique style covered so many great songs but like Frisco mentioned, his rendition of America gives me Goosebumps every time I hear it. He will be missed but his memory will live forever thanks to his recordings.

[Frisco-Kid]

BILL and HAL

His last CD recording is slated to come out the end of AUG. Fittingly, the title is "GENIUS LOVES COMPANY". The songs are duets done with various artists including Elton John and Norah Jones. Can't wait.

[Zofo]

I first came across Ray as a "person" in the Blues Brothers movie. I'd heard his music before but the way he could jangle the piano was something unheard of - I listened pretty exclusively to Deep Purple, Led Zeppelin etc and to hear the blues from an unloud angle changed my way of thinking. I've since bought Robert Johnson, "Lightnin" Hopkins and Ray's co-star Cab Calloway amongst others. A new introduction to US Blues! Thanks for everything Mr. Charles!