Dive into the soulful sounds of Ray Charles with "The Ray Charles Story Volume 4," a captivating collection of timeless tracks that showcase the legendary artist's unparalleled talent. Released on January 18, 2005, via Rhino Atlantic, this album spans a variety of genres, including jazz blues, soul, soul blues, and vocal jazz, offering a rich and diverse listening experience. With a runtime of 41 minutes, this album features an impressive lineup of songs that highlight Ray Charles' versatility and mastery of multiple musical styles.
The album kicks off with the energetic "Blackjack," followed by the classic "Alexander's Ragtime Band," and continues with soulful renditions like "I Believe to My Soul" and "A Bit of Soul." Fans will also enjoy the bluesy "Greenbacks" and the smooth jazz of "Undecided." The album includes a live performance of "In a Little Spanish Town" recorded at the Newport Jazz Festival in Rhode Island on July 5, 1958, adding a live energy to the collection. Other standout tracks include the heartfelt "When Your Lover Has Gone," the timeless "It Had to Be You," and the upbeat "Music, Music, Music."
"The Ray Charles Story Volume 4" is a testament to Ray Charles' enduring legacy, offering a blend of classic hits and lesser-known gems that will appeal to both longtime fans and new listeners alike. Whether you're in the mood for soulful ballads or upbeat jazz numbers, this album has something for everyone.