Album: Ray Charles & Betty Carter

In 1961, two outstanding jazz talents came together and decided to make a pop record. Ray Charles and his protégé Betty Carter released their self-titled album to critical acclaim, topping the R&B charts with their recording of, "Baby It's Cold Outside."

Ray Charles & Betty Carter was recorded over the course of just two days (June 13 & 14) at the United Studios in Hollywood, California. The album was produced by long-time Ray Charles collaborator, conductor Sid Feller. In the liner notes, Feller recalls the recording sessions, "Over the years, there are many recording sessions that stand out in my memory...both Ray and Betty rendered unmistakably inspired performances on every take. The album's arrangements were provided by Marty Paich, popular at the time for his work with Anita O'Day, Ella Fitzgerald and especially Mel Tormé. According to Feller, "Marty first worked very closely with Ray..incorporating the many unusual Charles touches in the sketching of each score." 

The album is a unique and stand-out piece of the American songbook, including the work of composers such as: Cole Porter, Rodgers & Hammerstein and of course, Arthur Schwartz. Stay tuned to The Jonathan Channel to hear the album in its entirety. This week, we will be featuring a different track, every hour on the hour.