Genius & Friends

by Ray Charles

Description by OLDIES.com:

A disc of all-new duet recordings commemorating the 75th anniversary of the genius' birth, and spotlighting the legend making beautiful music with superstar partners John Legend, Mary J. Blige, Patti LaBelle, Gladys Knight, George Michael, Angie Stone, Diana Ross, and more!

Product Description:

Personnel: Ray Charles (vocals, piano); Chris Isaak, George Michael, Idina Menzel, John Legend, Laura Pausini, Alicia Keys, Mary J. Blige, Andrae Crouch Singers, Patti LaBelle, Angie Stone, Ruben Studdard, Willie Nelson, Gladys Knight, Diana Ross, Leela James (vocals).

Recording information: 1991 - 2005.

Following the runaway success of Ray Charles's final studio album, 2004's GENIUS LOVES COMPANY, Rhino Records opted to release another disc of his duet recordings. GENIUS & FRIENDS, which draws Charles's contributions from a set of 1998 studio sessions, was reportedly planned by the beloved performer before his death, and features an impressive roster of vocalists, from Gladys Knight to Chris Isaak to John Legend. Highlights include stirring takes on "You Are My Sunshine" (with Isaak), "Compared to What" (with Leela James), "All I Want to Do" (with Angie Stone), and "I Will Be There" (with Broadway star Idina Menzel). Although posthumous records can be scattershot affairs, the care taken in presenting GENIUS & FRIENDS makes it a worthy addition to Charles's remarkable legacy.