"When I put music in front of Kenny Ray, I have every confidence that he'll do with it what I want done with it. That's because he feels the music the way I write it. This is an album that showcases his wonderful talent, and I'm proud to be part of it." (Chilton Price)
"Chilton Price writes songs that would make any songwriter envious, and the inclusion of them is an essential part of what makes this recording so special." (Michael Feinstein)
Before his debut as a soloist, Kenny Ray Hatton was known around the world as lead singer of the International Champion "Bluegrass Student Union," a contemporary barbershop quartet. But after Kenny became acquainted with Chilton Price, a successful songwriter with several gold records to her credit, the two became fast friends and eventually, collaborators.
Their first recording was intended to be merely a "demo" of their original songs, but it turned out so well that Kenny's and Chilton's friends and families suggested that they release it. The response to "Pure Price" was overwhelming, and that first recording "caught the ear" of certain music industry professionals. They advised what Chilton already knew; that Kenny has the voice and charisma to compare favorably with the great mainstream jazz singers of past and current eras. Those same advisors suggested that Kenny Ray should release a second CD; this one including a dozen "standards." Their theory is that listeners will accept a "new" singer more quickly if they are already familiar with some of the songs. Kenny welcomed this opportunity to have Chilton's works compared with some of the great pop standards of the Golden Era of American Popular Song. This, then, is the recording of those familiar tunes, along with eight Chilton Price originals, carefully selected by the singer.
Vocals; Kenny Ray Hatton
Piano Accompaniment: David Barrickman
Vocal Coaches: Allen Hatton and Chilton Price
Production: Kenny Ray Hatton, Phil Stirgwolt and Chilton Price
Mixing, Editing & Mastering: Phil Stirgwolt, TNT Productions, Falk Studio, Louisville, KY
Photography: Dave Duncan
Graphic Design: Dick Johnson
For inquiries or bookings, write to kennyraysinger@yahoo.com, or call 502-408-8445
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