Ray Charles Legend Celebrated in Concert

The extraordinary life and music of legendary soul and jazz maestro Ray Charles is being celebrated at Thornlie's Don Russell Performing Arts Centre on 21 May at 8pm. Jazz crooner James Flynn's regular pianist Mike Nelson has joined with a bunch of equally talented musicians and singers to honour one of the greats of twentieth century contemporary music in the show A Tribute to the Life and Music of The Genius, Ray Charles. Charles, an African American who was blind by the age of seven, fought his way from dirt poor beginnings to the top of the race-conscious music industry. His vast reputation stems from not only his incredible musicianship but also his pioneering of the new genre of soul, which blended rhythm and blues and gospel. Individual members of the tribute concert band have a considerable pedigree, including a rich history of touring and of performing with numerous national and international artists. This musically diverse group includes Bill Blissett (voice and keys of Ray Charles), Peter Slatter (bass and vocals) and Alan McCowat (guitar and vocals), all of them founding members of one of Australia's most popular rock/show bands, The Troupadores. Also featured in the nine piece line-up are familiar figures in the Perth jazz community including vocal trio Birdland (voices of the Raelettes), Jim Cook (saxophone) and Garry Howard (drums and vocals). Nelson plays keyboards and is the show's musical director. Tickets are selling fast so book yours today on 9493 4577 or visit www.gosnells.wa.gov.au and click on the Don Russell Performing Arts Centre link to buy tickets online. Admission $36.60 standard $33.10 concession $29 group (10+)/ students