Ray Charles is experiencing yet another major resurgence in 2026, with his music and legacy gaining traction across streaming platforms, social media, and live tribute performances. Like after the release of the 2004 biopic Ray he is once again being highlighted for his diverse soulful sound that crosses between soul, jazz, pop, country, blues and gospel. Often referred to as “The Genius” younger listeners find in his work modern, genre-blending blueprint rather than just nostalgia.

Tangerine Records, the album label created by Davis himself is releasing newly remastered versions of his classic albums in high-resolution audio on vinyl and CD. The music media is once again paying attention to this diverse artist with recent reviews in Downbeat, Jazzwise and Living Blues magazines.

This episode is dedicated to Ann-Marie Rose who started listening to Ray Charles and buying his albums while still a junior high school student and remained a big fan of Ray Charles the rest of her life.

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