20 Essential Albums Every Country Music Fan Should Own

3. Ray Charles - Modern Sounds In Country And Western Music

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2qS90p2JLbc Key Tracks: Bye Bye Love, I Can't Stop Loving You, Half as Much Yes, before Charley Pride started making music in 1966, the pioneer of soul Ray Charles was the first African American to release a country record with 1962's Modern Sounds in Country and Western Music. Although not strictly country (it incorporated liberal doses of rhythm and blues) it is still nonetheless an incredible important record in the genre's evolution. Charles was influenced by country in his youth and wanted to experiment with it in the early 60s after he'd achieved a great deal of success in the 50s. The reaction by the press and industry indsiders, including Ray's colleagues, was negative. This was during a time of racial tension in the United States and many thought the concept album was a mistake. But he stuck to his guns and successfully lobbied for the chance to cut it. The results are like no other country album you'll ever here. These aren't traditional ballads and tales of lovelorn losers. These are Ray Charles' take on familiar themes and they are unquestionably refreshing and original. The big-band sound is unlike anything you'll hear coming out of Nashville.