While producing what became Ray Charles‘ final album, Genius Loves Company, John Burk asked the soul music legend if he might re-sing a part. “No,” Charles said. “I ain’t doing that.”

Burk revisited the subject later, in a quiet moment at the studio, asking Charles to explain his reluctance. “It’s about what I’m feeling, at that moment,” Charles replied. “That’s what you want on the record.”

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Charles, of course, was right: Genius Loves Company, released after the singer, pianist and songwriter

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