Darius Rucker, Cam, Chris Young + More Unite For Ray Charles Tribute
Artists of all genres are coming together under the Grand Ole Opry roof to pay tribute to a musical icon: Country music will unite with the sound of soul when multiple artists pay homage to Ray Charles at a special concert dubbed "An Opry Salute to Ray Charles.”
Darius Rucker will host the special event, with many country names taking the stage to honor Charles; including Brett Eldredge, Cam, Chris Young, Travis Tritt and Lukas Nelson. They'll join forces with the legendary Boyz II Men, along with acclaimed R&B singers Leela James and Allen Stone. Attendees can also expect collaborations and special performances throughout the night.
Though Charles established himself as an R&B and soul icon in music history, he also found success in country music. His Modern Sounds in Country and Western Music project is often regarded as one of his best, and earned him a multi-week No. 1 hit with "I Can't Stop Loving You," which won the 1963 Grammy Award for Best Rhythm & Blues Recording.
Charles cut songs by some of the most influential country and western stars at the time, including Don Gibson, Eddy Arnold, Felice Bryant and Cindy Walker. The album has been inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame.
"When you think of musical legends, you think of Ray Charles," Rucker says. "To host this great event celebrating his legacy at the Opry makes it even more special. Being asked to join the Opry six years ago was one of the greatest highlights of my career and it's an honor any time I get to step onto that stage, especially for a night like this."
The special will be filmed and is set to air on PBS in November.
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