Georgia On My MindRay Charles1rank/position

Ray Charles – Georgia On My Mind (Official Video)

A classic song marked by a beautiful, nostalgic melody line and a soul-stirring vocal performance.

Released in November 1960, it became a massive hit, reaching number one on the Billboard charts.

The lyrics, filled with feelings for the state of Georgia and a longing for faraway places, resonate with many listeners.

Ray Charles’s deep affection and heartfelt singing remain undiminished, continuing to be loved by countless people.

When you feel like reminiscing about your hometown, why not listen to this song that gently seeps into the heart?

Hit the road Jack!Ray Charles2rank/position

Hit the road Jack!

Ray Charles is a legendary artist who cannot be overlooked when talking about soul music.

Despite being blind, he created numerous hits with his unique style that fused elements of blues, gospel, and jazz, and he reigned over the music scene for more than half a century after his debut in the 1950s.

His 1960 classic “Georgia on My Mind” topped the U.

S.

charts and is arguably one of his most widely known songs among many masterpieces.

Awarded 18 Grammys and many other honors during his lifetime, Ray continued to be celebrated after his passing in 2004, even being hailed as “the only true genius in show business.” He is not only the perfect entry point to soul music, but an artist whom everyone who loves music should absolutely listen to.

Ellie My LoveRay Charles3rank/position

Ray Charles Ellie My Love

A song by Ray Charles, known as one of the musicians who established soul music with roots in Black music such as R&B, jazz, blues, and gospel.

It’s a cover of the signature song ‘Itoshi no Ellie’ by the Japanese rock band Southern All Stars, and its jazzy arrangement, distinct from the original, is wonderfully soothing.

Using a widely known pop song in an English version is a stylish approach, making it a great choice for choral performances as well.

Even in English, you can tell it has a superb melody—truly a masterpiece that stands out in J-pop history.

I Can’t Stop Loving YouRay Charles4rank/position

Ray Charles I Can’t Stop Loving You

Ray Charles, a true musical genius also known for his affinity with the god of soul.

This famous song, also known as “I Can’t Stop Loving You,” is actually a cover originally released in 1957 by country singer Don Gibson.

What’d I SayRay Charles5rank/position

Ray Charles – What’d I Say (1959)

Released in 1959, Ray Charles’s “What’d I Say” is a classic that stands in the history of rock ’n’ roll and R&B.

Born as an improvised encore at a concert, the song captivated audiences of the time with its high-energy rhythm and provocative lyrics.

The gospel elements that shaped his style, along with the rumba beat that cemented his status, still sound fresh today.

Continuing to move many people and beloved by listeners of all ages, the song symbolizes Ray Charles’s achievements.

My Dear EllieRay Charles6rank/position

SUNTORY★Commercial★Ray Charles – Ellie, My Love (Itoshi no Ellie)

In 1989, Ray Charles performed a solo, singing-and-playing cover of a classic Southern All Stars song for a Suntory “White” commercial.

Since it was quite rare at the time for top international musicians to cover Japanese songs, it became a major talking point.

Let’s Go Get StonedRay Charles7rank/position

Ray Charles – Let’s Go Get Stoned (Official Audio)

Ray Charles, the great singer who represents Georgia.

If you love soul music, I’m sure you already know his achievements and appeal.

Among his works, the one I especially recommend is Let’s Go Get Stoned.

It’s a song that the English rock band Manfred Mann also covered, so even those who aren’t well-versed in Black music might find it familiar.

While it has some soulful elements, its defining feature is that it’s basically arranged with a light sound reminiscent of 1970s neo-soul.