65 years ago this week in 1954, Ray Charles entered the studios of Atlanta radio station WGST and made history. It was there that he and his touring band recorded the pioneering Atlantic Records track, “I’ve Got A Woman” (aka “I Got A Woman”). It was not only Ray’s first hit, topping the R&B charts, but it’s considered one the first “soul” records – merging gospel and jazz with secular lyrics to create a sound that would change the popular music landscape forever.
Ray was a high watermark in the development of a new soul sound that took the world by storm through the 50s, 60s and beyond.
Let's enjoy this live version from 1999, where Ray shows just why he is considered one of the all-time greats of music.
The influence of the song is immense and diverse, having been covered by Elvis, The Monkees, Chet Atkins, Stevie Wonder, Johnny Cash and so many more! Even The Beatles recorded a version in 1963 for a BBC session.
"I Got A Woman" was used as a sample in the huge 2005 hit "Gold Digger" by Kayne West and Jamie Foxx. However, if you (like us) prefer your soul music un-tampered with, you'll love our Soul Spinners playlist!
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