In 1977, Ray took his label Crossover and moved it back to Atlantic for distribution. Ahmet Ertegun at Atlantic pushed Ray to record tracks that would connect with a younger audience. Ray stood his ground and made the record his way, but succeeded in connecting with that young audience in a big, big way when he hosted and starred on NBC’s “Saturday Night Live” on November 12, 1977. He reunited his classic Big Band lineup for the show, including David Newman and Leroy Cooper. Ray’s cover of the Johnny Nash tune, “I Can See Clearly Now,” reached #35 on the R&B charts.

Tracks

I Can See Clearly Now
The Jealous Kind
Oh, What A Beautiful Morning
How Long Has This Been Going On
Be My Love
Anonymous Love
Heavenly Music
Game Number Nine
Let It Be