Released October, 1959
This is the all-American pop album Ray Charles had always dreamed of recording, with a full orchestra and strings. Quincy Jones and Ralph Burns wrote the charts. Atlantic Records’ VP Jerry Wexler stated that they had wanted to use the “Genius” title, but held back for two years. On this album, there was absolutely no doubt that the time was right and the title fit. The album won the 1960 Grammy Award in the Pop category for “Best Vocal Performance – Album” as well as the 1960 Grammy for “Best Rhythm & Blues Performance” on “Let The Good Times Roll.”

Tracks

Let The Good Times Roll
It Had To Be You
Alexander’s Ragtime Band
Two Years Of Torture
When Your Lover Has Gone
‘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