Tribute to a jazz genius
When legendary musician Ray Charles died last year at the age of 73, he left a legacy of unforgettable melodies and musical innovation.
It is thoughtful tributes to Charles, like the one by inventive jazz guitarist John Scofield, that ensure his music continues to be a source of musical inspiration and exploration.
As a pioneering American pianist and soul singer, Charles defied categorisation. He blended rhythm and blues, gospel, jazz and even country music to create a soulful sound entirely his own. His ingenuity and originality earned him the title 'the Genius', coined by Frank Sinatra. Charles collected 12 Grammy awards, including best R&B recording for three consecutive years.
When approached by Verve Records to create a tribute album to the late rhythm and blues legend, Scofield jumped at the chance to pay his respects to a musician who had had a profound influence on his own playing.
The result, That's What I Say, released in June this year, is a celebration of Charles' eclectic approach to his music, buoyed by an all-star lineup and Scofield's own fiery, funky playing.
Scofield and his band of talented jazz musicians will be delighting audiences with some of Charles' signature hits on February 24 and 25 at the Hong Kong Cultural Centre.
