RAY CHARLES – A LIFE IN PHOTOGRAPHS
Yes Indeed! is an official tribute to Ray Charles – by the musicians and friends who knew him best – and unveils a cache of recently discovered photographs originating from the heart of RPM Studios in Los Angeles, the creative centre of Ray Charles' life and work. Nearly all in full colour, the collection presents a vibrant record of Ray's life from the early Sixties until his passing in 2004.
Over a period of some 45 years, only one person penetrated Ray's privacy: Joe Adams. He got closer to Ray than anyone. David Ritz
Joe was Ray Charles' manager, business partner and friend for 45 years. Described as the 'man behind the man', his images bare witness to his instrumental role in Charles' career. |
From his privileged standpoint, Joe photographed legendary performances (for instance, an appearance with Aretha Franklin on The Midnight Special, 1973) and also incredibly rare moments such as Ray relaxing backstage, with his beloved chessboard, in hotel rooms and in his office – even at the cockpit of his private jet.
When Joe Adams picked up his Nikon to record scenes on the road with Ray Charles, he made magic without even working up a sweat. We are fortunate to get to share his rare view behind-the-scenes with his best friend, Ray Charles. Janet Macoska - Ray Charles Marketing Group
These personal images provide a new window into the Ray’s life and are the focal point for this official limited edition dedicated to The Genius himself.
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"I've loved music all my life. It's like my breathing."
Amazingly, the seminal photographs were all but forgotten until 2006 when staff at Ray Charles Entertainment discovered them during office renovations. Genesis and the Ray Charles Marketing Group have worked closely ever since and the proceeds from this hand-bound publication benefit the charitable Ray Charles Robinson Foundation.
When people look at this book I want them to take away from it the fact that the pictures are taken by a guy who was very fortunate to have the privilege of being associated with another guy, and that we liked and, most importantly, respected each other. Joe Adams
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