Charleston Chronicle
Manny Houston joins the Charleston Jazz Orchestra for “Mess Around: A Tribute to Ray Charles”
CHARLESTON CHRONICLE — South Carolina native and College of Charleston grad, Manny Houston, joins the Charleston Jazz Orchestra (CJO) on April 20, 2019 to pay tribute to Ray Charles. Known as the ‘Genius of Soul,’ Ray pioneered the soul music genre during the 1950s and 60s by combining blues, jazz and gospel styles.
The CJO welcomes vocalist Manny Houston to celebrate this American icon. Originally from Greenville, SC, Manny has starred in many stage and show productions, including his own highly acclaimed piano singer tribute at the Charleston Music Hall.
“I’m looking forward to working with Manny on this show. He was one of our students in the College of Charleston music department, it’s great to see his professional career blossoming!” said Robert Lewis, Music Director of the Charleston Jazz Orchestra.
The song list includes:
Come Rain or Come Shine – Arr. by Robert Lewis
Doodlin’ – Arr. by Ernie Wilkins
Georgia on My Mind – Arr. by Sammy Nestico
Hallelujah, I Love Her So – Arr. by David Heywood
Hit the Road Jack – Arr. Matthew White
I Gotta Woman – Arr. by Brett Belanger
Let the Good Times Roll – Arr. by Mark Taylor
Lift Every Voice and Sing – Arr. Mark Sterbank
Mess Around – Arr. by Robert Lewis
Seven Steps to Heaven – Arr. by Robert Lewis
The Right Time – Arr. by Robert Lewis
Unchain My Heart – Arr. by Frank Duvall
What I’d Say – Arr. by David Heywood
You Won’t Let Me Go – Arr. by Frank Duvall
Showtimes: 5PM and 8PM at the Charleston Music Hall (37 John St.) Saturday, April 20
Tickets are on sale now at http://www.charlestonjazz.com and the Charleston Jazz box office at 843-641-0011. Ticket prices range from $25 – $60. Senior rates for 65 and older. $10 for students and children.
This article originally appeared in the Charleston Chronicle.