Ray Charles

by Phil Chesnut

5/17 @ Spokane Opera House, Spokane, 8pm; 5/19 @ Tacoma Dome, Tacoma, 7pm.
(Ray Charles also returns to Oregon in August)

Over fifty years ago a young musical protégé named Ray Robinson ventured from the Deep South to the Puget Sound. When he left he was known as Ray Charles, and the rest is modern music history. Ray Charles will make another glorious appearance in Western Washington at the Tacoma Dome on May 19th, preceded by a show at the Opera House in Spokane on May 17th.

Whether you are a fan of the blues, soul, jazz, rock, country, or gospel, everyone is a fan of the legendary Ray Charles. Spanning all boundaries and musical genres, Brother Ray has been mesmerizing audiences with his unforgettably soulful voice and style for over a half century. Ray has been the recipient of almost every award and accolade imaginable including 12 Grammys and induction in every music Hall of Fame there is, including the Lifetime Achievement Award from The Blues Foundation. Ray Charles is truly a national treasure.

I'm sure that Ray's current tour will reflect his mastery of all modern musical styles. All who are fortunate enough to witness his wondrous Northwest performances will be in for a very special treat. Considering the times, Ray's timeless rendition of "America the Beautiful" will undoubtedly bring a tear to the eye of even the most jaded fan. It's important to remember that Ray Charles was a blues singer first, originally touring with blues icon Lowell Fulsom. No matter what style or song it is, Ray Charles still puts a little blues into every piece.

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