Ray Charles & Count Basie Orchestra - Ray Sings, Basie Swings (2006) [HDTracks]

Ray Sings, Basie Swings combines archival, never-before-heard Ray Charles vocal recordings with brand-new performances by the Count Basie Orchestra. This ground breaking album gives listeners the unprecedented experience of hearing Ray Charles at the dazzling peak of his vocal prowess. Ray Sings, Basie Swings was created with the most up-to-date recording and mixing technology, offering sound quality that is state-of-the art.

A Project Summary: The producers of this CD discovered archival reels of Ray Charles and the Count Basie Orchestra performing live together in 1973. Although the vocals were superior, the remaining elements were of extremely poor quality. They decided to bring the current Basie Orchestra into the studio and, using the latest technology, they carefully and painstakingly laid down a new instrumental backdrop for Charles’ towering vocals.
Reviews
“Ray Charles and Count Basie were two of the most charismatic personalities I’ve ever known. I loved them both. So to hear this amazing collaboration of their musical geniuses is a treat of the highest order. When 21st century technology and timeless soul come together, watch out! This one is for the ages.” - Quincy Jones

*Marks the FIRST-TIME an entire album has been created using a pre-existing vocal track and a new instrumental backdrop.
*The FIRST AND ONLY RECORDING in which Charles is backed by the legendary bandleader’s orchestra, helping to fulfill one of Charles’ life-long musical dreams.
*Features AMAZING NEW ARRANGEMENTS and renderings of many Ray Charles classics, as well as the NEVER-BEFORE RECORDED song “Every Saturday Night.”
*Features arrangements by Quincy Jones and vocal arrangements by Patti Austin.