"Ray Charles" is a song by American rap group Chiddy Bang. It was released in Canada on November 14, 2011, as a digital download as the second single from their debut studio album Breakfast. The song is an homage to the musician of the same name. Outside of the United States, "Ray Charles" was a hit in the British Isles, peaking within the top 20 of the charts in both Ireland and the United Kingdom. In the latter country, the song peaked at number 13 on the UK Singles Chart.
Music video A music video to accompany the release of "Ray Charles" was first released onto YouTube on January 5, 2012. It was directed by Alan Ferguson. The music video features the duo watching videos on VEVO, including one that features the duo dressed up like Ray Charles. Briefly, "Pass Out" and "So What Cha Want", by Tinie Tempah and the Beastie Boys, respectively, can be heard. The scene in the church towards the end of the video is an homage to The Blues Brothers. After one and week of being on the site the official video had been viewed just over 3.8 million times.Chiddy Bang – Ray Charles. YouTube
Critical reception Robert Copsey of Digital Spy gave the song a positive review stating: It's easy to see how they've come to appreciate the late star as their soul homage not only fully embodies his sound, but also highlights how popular it remains today. Over a vintage piano riff and bouncy jazz section they rap a tribute to the legend that falls somewhere between profound and dangerously tongue-in-cheek ("You're too blind to see it"), but the result nonetheless sounds genuinely heartfelt.
Track listing Digital Download "Ray Charles" – 3:43
Charts Chart (2011–2012)Peakposition
Release history Region Date Format LabelUnited States November 14, 2011Ray Charles – Single by Chiddy Bang. iTunes Digital download EMI January 24, 2012 Rhythmic radio Capitol Records United Kingdom 26 February 2012Ray Charles – EP by Chiddy Bang. iTunes Digital download EMI
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