The Newport Jazz Festival was Ray’s initiation into the jazz circuit, even though he was slated to play on the Festival’s first “Blues Night.” The concert was recorded “live” on July 8, 1958. The young boppers flocked to Ray who started out the set with jazz, moved onto his R&B hits and closed with the rockin’ “I’ve Got A Woman.” Many felt that Ray’s Newport appearance helped move jazz towards a “back to roots” movement. At the end of 1958, Downbeat Magazine named Ray Charles their “Best Male Star – New Singer”.

TRACKS

(Night Time Is) The Right Time
In A Little Spanish Town
I’ve Got A Woman
Blues Waltz
Hot Rod (The Spirit – Feel)
Talkin’ ‘Bout You
Sherry
A Fool For You