A Tribute


I read about you today,Ray....
and heard about your passing
it saddened me no end...

Too soon to leave us, I think..
Is this what God intends?

I remember as a young boy..
my mother would play...
Your records, Count Baise and Etta James all day..

From Boogie to Soul and R&B, you shared the stage..
I learned my beginning chops from you..
My life had forever changed.

And now you'll sing "America" for God on high..
with the Angels now to back you..
We'll always be in your debt..

..As the man music shall never forget.