Ray Charles - In Concert (2001)

Ray Charles-In Concert

I have always admired Ray Charles, but his performance here was far less than satisfactory. For example, when he sang, the words were slurred so bad that unless you knew the song, you had no idea what he was saying. The entire DVD was like this. I couldn't help but wonder if he was stoned during his performance.I sent it back and purchased a different DVD of a different artist. January 30, 2007

Don't bother

Some people have complained that the sound is turned down too much on this DVD. After watching it, I wonder if they did it on purpose.
Ray Charles is in great spirits at this concert but certainly not in great voice.
The orchestra is great and Ray could certainly still play the piano just fine but his singing is pretty bad.
Diane Shur, who guest stars on two songs is very good but if you're going to get this DVD for her, you might as well get her own DVD.
Anyway, get some other Ray Charles DVD instead. May 12, 2005

Magical and Marvelous

This may be the concert of a lifetime. A 73 year old artist who is in his "prime". The riches of Rays' vocal interpretation, as well as his spiritual commitment to each song, makes this a rare offering. Here is an old, seasoned veteran that uses all his tricks without overstatement at any level.
The stunning orchestra and beautiful lighting, set an impressive and unforgettable scene.
For those who know Ray's life, the songs are an articulation of the high and low moments of his career. "This Songs for You" is filled with pathos. One senses Ray singing it to his wife. In many ways, this offering is his final testament.
For those who know the young Ray, this offering of the older Ray will distance them from that immature and searcing voice, and make them wish for more of the old Ray. Wow. Buy two. One to play, and one to keep for your grandchildren. May 8, 2005

A great artist, but the concert is a bit too bland for me.

I sort of agree with the reviewer who was forced to use the word "blah." The musical numbers aren't those I'd prefer to see/hear again. Even the version of "Georgia" is a bit bland. The CD from the film "Ray" is great, by the way - it has a lot of great Ray Charles - the original recordings. I'm also looking forward to another DVD of Ray Charles that I bought - haven't seen that yet, though. March 17, 2005

Not the Ray I knew

I'm sorta at a loss with this concert. First off, the sound is only dolby 2.0 ... not what I was expecting for a DVD released this recently. Secondly, Ray seems a little out of it ... I had to strain to hear the words to several of the songs. I found several of the songs simply boring. Don't get me wrong .. I'm a huge fan of Ray. This concert just left me ... well ... blah. March 16, 2005

More reviews at Amazon.com ...