Ray Charles - Live in France 1961

About This Movie

So, 'Ray Charles - Live in France 1961' is a real gem. Directed by Bruno Riou-Maillard, it captures Ray during this pivotal time, right at the cusp of his European breakthrough. The footage, lost for decades, brings you to the Antibes Jazz Festival where you can feel the energy of the crowd and the music just weaving through the air. The Raeletts backing him up are in fine form, and the band — with legends like David 'Fathead' Newman and Hank Crawford — just shines. It's less about a polished performance and more about the raw power of live music, the spontaneity, and the connection between Ray and the audience. A rare look at an artist who defined a generation, and you can sense that magic in every frame.

Features the original Raeletts and legendary musicians. · Captures the atmosphere of early 60s jazz festivals. · A unique opportunity to see Ray in his prime, with previously lost footage.