Ain't That Fine: A Ray Charles Collection - Volumes 1 and 2

I'm a little embarrassed that I spent an inordinate

amount of time thinking about what I should call this compilation and was only able to come up with the nondescript "Ain't That Fine".   Basically, I was hoping for something just a little bit clever and original while paying respect to Ray's genius talent.  And yet I achieved neither.  I hope that does not deter from people's enjoyment of this collection (you can always change the name on the mp3s) - I tried to focus mostly on album cuts and out of print material.  In doing so, I discovered just how much of his output is now out of print - like most of his 60's and 70's recording.  It's been almost 20 years since the biopic movie so another Ray revival is sorely overdue.  I'll post Volume 3 next month.

      I also wanted to give a little homage to the great Dallas Good of the Sadies who died at the far too young age of 48 a week ago.  The Toronto Star has a really nice obituary and I've also re-upped my two Sadies compilations. 

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Volume 1

Makin' Whoopee

I Want to Know

Bags of Blues

Side By Side

Don't Tell Me Your Troubles

Mister C

Tell Me, How Do You Feel?

You're Just About to Lose Your Clown

Senor Blues

I Wake Up Cryin'

You'll Never Miss The Water Until The Well's Gone Dry

All to Myself Alone

Blackjack

She's On the Ball, Jack

Scotia Blues (Blues For Big Scotia)

You Are My Sunshine

 My Baby (I Love Her Yes I Do)

Cry

Volume 2

Swing A Little Taste

Mississippi Mud

The Ray

I'm Movin' On

Alabamy Bound

Th' Ego Song (They're Crazy About Me)

Soul Meeting

Laughin' and Clownin'

 Worried Life Blues

She's Lonesome Again

I Wonder Who's Kissing Her Now?

Doodlin'

But On the Other Hand, Baby

Guitar Blues

Walkin' and Talkin' (to Myself)

X-Ray Blues

Baby, Don't You Cry

Sweet Georgia Brown