America the Beautiful - Ray Charles - MP3 instrumental karaoke

“America the Beautiful” is a patriotic American song written by choirmaster Samuel A. Ward with lyrics by Katherine Lee Bates. It was originally written by Bates as a poem entitled Pikes Peak, then set to music, quickly becoming one of the most popular patriotic songs. The song has been performed by a large number of artists over the years, but few versions feel as poignant or vital as Ray Charles’. The legendary singer and pianist from Georgia recorded the song in 1972, as part of his album A Message to the People. Ray Charles’ version was produced by Quincy Jones and features a much more soulful rendition of the melody. In 1976, while the United States celebrated its bicentennial, Ray Charles’ recording of “America the Beautiful” peaked at Number 98 on the US Billboard R&B chart. His version of the song is also traditionally played on New Year’s Eve in Times Square, shortly after the ball drops.