Ray Charles - A Message From The People (1972)

'A Message From the People, Ray Charles' 1972 classic, is finally available after being long out of print. As part of Concord Music Group's reissue series, the album has been digitally remastered and the results are fantastic. This is a very special album in the Charles discography, with each of the ten songs carefully chosen by the artist to express his feelings about the state of society. Never heavy-handed, the album's focus is squarely on social consciousness. Many of the sentiments expressed in these songs ring very true in these economically-challenged times.

Charles' vocals throughout are among his most passionate ever committed to tape. His frustration is palpable in "Hey Mister," a funky work-out with lyrics imploring politicians to bring aid to the needy and poor. There is jubilation in his reading of what is often referred to as The Black National Anthem, "Lift Every Voice and Sing." Speaking of anthems, over the years there have been occasional attempts at replacing "The Star Spangled Banner" with "America the Beautiful." That's unlikely to ever happen, but Charles' version (which closes the album) can arguably be considered the definitive reading of that classic patriotic song.' (Internet Source)

I orginally posted this in the comments of KC's first posting of 'Ray Charles - Doing HIS Thing'  below, where I said =   Here is Ray Charles - A Message from the People (1972 Reissue 2009) ... It's mainstream corny and over done...but any song by Brother Ray is worth a listen ...perhaps the greatest African-American voice ever...And the most influential and exciting Black artist...in my time.
There was also a request from 'rntcj' for a re-up so I thought I'd post it upfront. - Gus