Ray Charles A Message from the People LP

Originally released in 1972, A Message from the People remains one of Charles' most celebrated albums, as well as the most socially conscious work of his six-decade career. The record directly confronts societal ills of poverty and injustice while offering a universal message of brotherhood and hope for peace; topics that are as relevant today as they were 50 years ago. The album includes such classic tracks as "They'll Be No Peace On Earth Without All Men As One," "Abraham, Martin and John," the gospel-infused "Lift Every Voice and Sing" and "Heaven Help Us All. " The album also includes Ray's recording of "Hey Mister," which was played during a Congressional joint hearing in 1972 to speak on behalf of common citizens to a government that was widely seen as ignoring their needs.

According to PopMatters: "If one human voice could dignify the plight of the impoverished, celebrate the brief respite of the working class and honor the patriotism of a people, in that post-turbulent era of the early '70s - that instrument would belong to the singer-pianist Ray Charles."

Perhaps the most impactful track on this album is Ray's iconic version of "America the Beautiful," which quickly became our second National Anthem and has inspired countless generations since its release 50 years ago