Introduction
“What’d I Say” is a seminal song by Ray Charles, first recorded in 1959. The track is renowned for its energetic fusion of gospel and R&B elements, featuring a call-and-response structure between Charles and his backup singers, the Raelettes. Its innovative blend of rhythms and improvisational style marked a pivotal moment in the evolution of soul music.
The song’s inception was somewhat spontaneous. During a concert in December 1958, Charles improvised the piece to fill time, leading to its development and subsequent recording. Despite initial concerns over its length and suggestive content, “What’d I Say” became a significant crossover hit, reaching number one on Billboard’s R&B chart and number six on the Hot 100.
The influence of “What’d I Say” extended beyond Charles’ own performances. Artists such as Elvis Presley incorporated elements of the song into their work, notably featuring a dance sequence inspired by it in his 1964 film “Viva Las Vegas.” The track’s innovative spirit and cultural impact have cemented its legacy as a cornerstone in the history of popular music.