A Song For You - Willie Nelson, Ray Charles, Leon Russell

[@deborahferrari9233]

Willie showing true emotion and respect for Ray. Leon died after this too!

[@RalphDavis-qk2xy]

Yes, that is truly touching.

[@mga2899]

Fortunately Leon lived another decade. I got to see him in 2013. Spectacular,

[@sandralittle2138]

God bless these three great men!

[@VictoriaJohnson-j7k]

Yes.❤

[@candace8527]

❤❤❤

[@telmamejia6021]

This song moves me to tears, it touches too deeply.😢 love it.❤

[@absolutetruth5833]

Me too!! It is in my playlist 😢❤

[@patrickwilliams8646]

❤

[@Fezz1020]

Hello, 🤩 those were the days of our music.☮️🌺🇺🇲

[@VictoriaJohnson-j7k]

Stunning song.😢

[@69Mucci]

Watching the look on Willie's face as Ray is singing, it definitely gets me choked up.

[@roybatty2030]

We’re a lucky generation to have had the privilege of such great music by such great men

[@daftbeeswax4439]

Yes we were. I was 17 in 1971 and heard this song for the first time. This and many others. What a privelege to come of age with this magical music. I doubt that there will ever be another explosion of creativity like that, at least not in my lifetime.

[@tobywinter1]

@@daftbeeswax4439 Amen. The 60's and 70's. Never to be surpassed.

[@dthomas9230]

@@tobywinter1Leon's Jumpin Jack Flash/Youngblood medley was party heaven.

[@bethmckiever745]

@@dthomas9230

[@dlfinn55]

That is the truth!

[@marthaakamartiwhipple7093]

I'm crying watching Willie Watching Ray...... Oh my God... so much emotion in both their faces... knowing that this would probably be their last time together on stage... And Knowing too that even though Leon wrote this song, Ray Charles owned it... The respect that both Leon and Willie were paying to Ray Charles is evident in Willie's face, he's having a hard time holding it in...... Leon Russell, Ray Charles and Willie on the same stage.... It doesn't get any better than that! Now if you'll excuse me.. I need to finish crying ❤

[@briannorthcote1974]

Amen

[@bruceweigle7597]

thank you for finding and sharing the words i couldn't. simply amazing.

[@janetoconnor9365]

This is a real tear jerker…Willie’s face says it all

[@Gary-n5l7y]

A FAN OF NELSON'S FOR 50 YEAR'S, I AGREE WITH YOU. A SPECIAL TIME. AND TO HAVE 3 LEGENDS LIKE THIS ON 1 STAGE IS HISTORY FOREVER ❤❤

[@MikeB-dq2yo]

well said

[@tuviafogel]

This song is a symbol of a generation that ain't coming back.

[@andreabradley5837]

This song is eternal. I love you in a place where there's no space and time, I love you all my life you are a friend of mine...

[@anthonybryant9041]

Unfortunately I agree just glad I grew up with that generation of music which is the best in my opinion

[@richardlesh393]

Love it 👍🙏🎉🎉​@@andreabradley5837

[@mikeweaver5399]

One day people probably any of the joys and the stuff we went through. I think no one can relive any of that stuff, keep enjoying it 😉

[@LarsGsanger]

❤️

[@johntechwriter]

After thousands of hours listening to great music on KZbin, this is my favorite live performance. Ray was very ill, and this song is his farewell to his dear friend Willy Nelson. I dare you not to tear up.

[@SmithBrookHollow]

Absolutely beautiful, thank you soooo much for sharing

[@DanCroitoru-w6s]

Absolute fabulous

[@sandralittle2138]

Amen

[@cynthiaracicot6502]

I agree. I’ll watch it over and over. Elton John is a great man for orchestrating this.

[@Gary-n5l7y]

Absolutely True..

[@phillipnixon8136]

Leon Russell, a musical genius, shared his talent with the world. He, Ray, and Willie were great friends and some of the best the best this world has ever seen and heard.

[@tmg6558]

Leon and Ray grew up with Gospel music and that influence reverberates throughout all of their music (cord arrangements, etc.). I had the great privilege of seeing them perform live in New Orleans, many times. They both could shake the house down with their hot tempo mirthful numbers or lull you into a place 'where there is no space and time' with their soulful, spiritual evoking performances. Both were Great piano players and composers. Leon had years of Classical training before "going out to Hollywood to chase my dreams", while Ray learned his talents on the piano by ear from an old friend and mentor as a young child. Their musical efforts live on now for our enjoyment and reflection.

[@LarsGsanger]

❤️

[@corneliskats5202]

That's why they called Ray Charles "The Genius"

[@judybrodowski]

I used to watch Leon Russell Live in Miami all of the time!! I just Loved him!

[@sandralittle2138]

I saw him several times in Tulsa Brady Theater he was always great and I loved the smaller venue. I saw Leon and wife Grace together at Brady they were great together! Love Leon!

[@judybrodowski]

I saw Leon and his wife together too! She’s Beautiful! My husband and I got up and danced to this at the Wolf Den at Mohegan Sun Casino in Uncasville, Ct!

[@shaykatz5648]

Willie's face as he watches Ray Charles perform is so stricken with sorrow. Brings me to tears watching 2 of America's legends. Willie is 92 (?) now & RIP Ray Charles ❤

[@fks1]

Willie knew Ray was dying and at 415....You can see what a Love and Friendship looks like.......They were friends for over 30 yrs...Ray was really speaking directly to Willie and Willie knows it and almost breaks down...What a grand moment...

[@allieneyates5070]

Ray, AWSOME,,!!!

[@kabebear6781]

Frank K A Sloan ....😪👍🏾

[@ruthmcqueen3634]

Exactly. He was speaking to his friend. Im watching this in 2019 , crying like a baby

[@timcornelius1912]

@Ryan A. Porter ❤❤❤❤❤ nuff said

[@timteevin4517]

Yeah.

[@valeriecostello4673]

Wow! Some of the greatest.

[@TerryClare-iq6xd]

We were indeed blessed to have lived in a time when music absolutely came alive and offered us the opportunity to choose the music that brought the best melodies to our ears and joy to our hearts as well as a bond with so many people of our great generation. I have no problem listening to the music that I hear today, but I am very happy that technology has been able to continue to keep the music alive that I grew up with and shared with friends, whether it was at live concerts, at home or riding in my van, I enjoyed it all.

[@reubination]

They all knew it was Ray’s last performance. That would be a hard few minutes to stand there and watch him sing this song. Mr. Charles was in fantastic form considering his health and age. A true legend. Rest In Peace sir! You brought joy and love to millions of people the world over.

[@jeffreyspatzspatz3863]

Honest Vaunerable and true pure magic RAY CHARLES

[@judithfarris3596]

Such a precious moment.

[@josephwitkowski6665]

Was this really his last live performance? Sounds at the top of his game.

[@reubination]

@@josephwitkowski6665 yes it was his last performance. It was far from his best performance but it was adequate considering liver cancer is painful. I would suspect he was in pain here. His voice was not steady but it’s so incredible for him to even be performing. Probably one of the most instantly recognizable persons to ever live. Of course that is subjective to opinion but is there anyone more recognizable than him by sight or sound? Maybe Muhammad Ali and a few others. The movements, the teeth, the glasses, the voice. If you turned out the lights and could only see a silhouette of him, you couldn’t mistake him. To hear only his voice, is unmistakable. He had a very hard start to life, and was blasted under pressure like a diamond to become a true gem.

[@josephwitkowski6665]

@@reubination Amazing! Sounded great too me. Thanks for the info.

[@DeRaeShuffler]

" I love you in a place where there is no space or time." Wow

[@gbtyresinc]

Sending love right back did you attend any concert?

[@patrickdlogan]

I love how Willie and Leon just gave the entire back half of the song to Ray.

[@bbmcg1948]

Amen

[@ojaibill2]

Ray takes over a song meant to be shared by all three, but it ends up being and emotional tribute to all three, Leon as the songs creator, Willie as everybody’s friend, and Ray himself, whose emotional rendition of any song fills it with soulful, loving energy. Who’s going to complain about that?

[@TerriKnight-x3s]

One of the great performances by Ray Charles. They are in awe of him. Beautiful respect for this old friend😎😥❤️

[@LarsGsanger]

❤️

[@EKAdventures51]

Sadly Leon had trouble at this time, but always it is a Billy Preston song

[@davidmonroe4780]

If this don't move your heart, you ain't got one.

[@cathyleejohnson]

point well made

[@jamesmc6703]

This was for Willie's 70th birthday. 20 years ago, wow! I remember this performance like it was yesterday, and it will stay with me forever.

[@SuperFlowback]

I’m probably going to cry like a baby when we lose willie Nelson. Watching Willie get emotional puts a lump in my throat. Unbelievable how much talent is on this one stage.

[@PlanetEarth3141]

Me too. Legends die fairly often. Like Johnny Cash, Waylon Jennings, Marty Robbins, Ray Charles and Merle Haggard, but Willie Nelson is unique. In my opinion, Willie has always been the greatest country singer, clearly in a category by himself. The first time I thought of him inevitably dying was many years ago and it affected me deeply. If it was up to me Willie would live forever. It's hard to imagine Country Music without Willie. It's easier to imagine heaven's music with Willie.

[@btu59]

I just got tickets to see Willie in South Florida in October 2023 cannot wait❤

[@RitaLynn444]

We just saw him yesterday in Maryland ❤❤

[@timharper4246]

​@@btu59Willie is coming to Cincinnati and I'm taking my kids with me. That's how much he means to me. It's important they get to go

[@btu59]

@@timharper4246 it sure is, I’m a Brit 👍🇬🇧and my family love him..I’m so blessed to be able to see him as I’m sure how long he’s going to do concerts for hope you have a fab time, it’s going to be memorable ❤️

[@howardclegg6497]

Dang, Songs that make grown men cry. Hang in there Willie. You will sing this again with Leon and Ray in a different hall.

[@andrewreese6257]

My uncle Mike played music and him and willie could have been twins literally. Mike passed away back in 2012. But the love that Willie makes me think of the way I loved Mike and yes! This made me bawl like a baby. But also because I'm a huge fan of all three of those guys! Lol

[@MamaHarperr]

​@@andrewreese6257RIP to unc mike 🙏🏾

[@fabjen1961]

Willie just oozing admiration, tribute, and respect.

[@LarsGsanger]

❤️

[@seamuschavez3546]

Halfway through this, Willie and Ray are completely alone together in that room full of people. And you can see it happen on Willie’s face. And in his eyes. As close as these two men were, I’m sure Willie was aware of Ray’s health and that time together was precious.

[@leeannbullard3952]

😢

[@margueritemazzeo2904]

😢😢

[@fairygodmomma2313]

Yes

[@deborahsherer1710]

You are right. What a love.

[@eddippleshirleyspraise4813]

It looks to me like Ray can see Willie's emotion and just cranks it up

[@PlanetEarth3141]

Despite the audio/video quality, it will never be better than this. Not ever. Leon, Willie, Ray. Epic moment frozen in time.

[@blanketeyblank5309]

Respect

[@juliam.mallen9019]

Amen

[@selftrue670]

Never, ever, ever.

[@jamiehornp7165]

Willie is so moved by Ray's performance. I met Willie on the day he was flying out to go to Ray Charles's funeral. He was so kind and laughed and joked with me even though he was heartbroken. I'll never forget our conversation as long as I live.

[@guythatpaysforyourhandouts2478]

Ray going down those octaves and it just not seeming to end is impressive. Willie learned classical Guitar and has been around a lot of good piano players. I've never seen willie look someone in awe like that in my 40 decades watching him.

[@RitaLynn444]

❤❤❤

[@TonyMorrow-bk2tn]

Lllllllll

[@jackdickey6015]

Lucky lucky :)

[@pearlhampshire9342]

I love Willie Nelson. He is such a beautiful man. Awesome you met him as you did.❤

[@mattmelot5158]

Watched this 100 times and still shed a tear every time they let Ray take over.

[@jacobc874]

That band never missed either. When it was Ray's time to take the lead melody and play, they all quieted down, provided texture, and kept whatever tempo ray was on. Even in his twilight years, master class musicians understood implicitly that they had a responsibility to step back and allow a legend to take the fore.

[@kylekhaos9941]

I agree,I can't stop playing this,Willie looking at ray........😢

[@MamaHarperr]

​@jacobc874 great observation

[@maryvaughn7886]

Words fail me right now my heart is bursting remembering when we were all younger & what that song meant to me. ..😢

[@jimrobert7239]

Hello 👋 mary.

[@abadstormrising]

Three Gods on stage. The likes we will never see again.The emotions on that stage brings tears to my eyes.

[@lisakatz9437]

DITTO! Willie's birthday was on April 29th. He turned 91 this year. Incredible huh!!

[@cynthiaracicot6502]

This song brings tears to my eyes. Could apply to anyone who has ever loved and been hurt. Or, just loved.

[@cynthiaracicot6502]

Played every relevant song when going through painful break up. Makes No Difference, The Band, This Old House by Nancy Griffith( or covered), You Are Not Alone by Mavis Staples and Jeff Tweety. Played them over and over because they explained what I was feeling. Thank you for all the great musicians!

[@kathyfritz8374]

Willie’s face is what a breaking heart looks like

[@LarsGsanger]

❤️

[@timharper4246]

Willie is fighting back the tears just after 3:15. Me too, Willie. Ray meant the world to Willie

[@AFTERSHOCKCEX]

OMG! That is so emotionally draining. Why do we have to grow old? Why can't this last forever? Well their music will never die. That is for sure. Thank you Ray and Leon and Happy 91st Birthday Willie!

[@quiziggy]

Revelation evaluation chapter 21 verse 3 and 41 day. We won't grow anylord and we have the hobo scene. Gray pray Willie and Leon together. And God's new world.

[@quiziggy]

Sorry for the typo. That's one day.. VS 3 and 4. Not 41.

[@charlenehardin1157]

Only our human bodies grow old and die. Ecclesiastes 12:7 our spirits return to God. We all live on, the choice as to where is made now while we are alive. Only those who choose to accept God's his FREE GIFT of eternal life will live on in God's heavenly home. Ephesians 2:8-9 King James Version 8 For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: 9 Not of works, lest any man should boast.

[@SousChef77]

@@charlenehardin1157 The best is yet to be for those who are covered in The Blood of Jesus. Why otherwise did He have to die? It is NONE of us. Hope to see you there. Mine will be the Mansion that is Mid Century Modern with all the crazy color...no way will it be black and white and gray. Come on over, I will have something delicious for you to eat..

[@NicBloch]

This was one of Ray's last performances, Willie knew that. Willies admiration, and his facial expressions, for Ray always get me. This video brings a tear to my eye.

[@boredhousewifelife]

I felt the same. To see a grown man, and one hard as nails like Willie, cry is a powerful thing. There was such a humility to it. As if he didn't feel worthy to even share the stage with Ray. In that moment he was just another fan watching the performance of a lifetime.

[@lisaolive7585]

U could tell willie loved ray we should all b blessd to hav such a friend

[@abrahammccormick6588]

This bring tears to my eyes also I love this song

[@oilyshoes9969]

He lived 7 more years....so doubtful on one of his last performances

[@rtillery76]

@@oilyshoes9969 This was April 2003. Ray Charles died in June 2004 after canceling performances beginning in March 2004. He had closer to 7 months to perform, not 7 years.

[@emilboccio5228]

Leons classic and who the hell can sing it like Ray. Bless Ray and Leon. This song is forever

[@Zkbbkzzz]

I’m so grateful to the camera person who captured WN emotion so we could all feel the love.

[@LarsGsanger]

❤️

[@enethlozada1695]

I actually cry each time I watch this video. Alot of history on that stage !!!!!!!

[@lenieadolphson6776]

Me too

[@cherylrondeau905]

I'm bawling my eyes out

[@lizfox4552]

yep...

[@pedrosacristan2002]

@@cherylrondeau905 o

[@jhje1139]

I do so also, cry, (but I have a couple of vodkas"!!)

[@lisakatz9437]

A few days ago was Willie's 91st Birthday. CRAZY!! I am SO SURE Leon and Ray are watching over him, keeping him going and strong. What a beautiful performance this was. Tears streaming down my face over here. What a special time we were able to witness huh?! God bless us all

[@LarsGsanger]

🙏❤️

[@Fezz1020]

Yes😢😢😢😊

[@josephpipkins-g8z]

As much as people disagree these days, we can all agree on this!! What a beautiful performance we’re all so fortunate to see…beautiful and heartbreaking! 😢

[@charleshayden1400]

Leon wrote this song in TEN MINUTES. Well “something” wrote it! This song will never die. ❤️🙏🏻

[@marysalvi242]

@charleshayden1400 I've been on this Leon listening to any thing regarding him; maybe you know some facts about him - in case you do not, find a bio type video and what his mother tells about Leon as a, I think 3 year old. Yeah, he truly was open to that "something". ~ peace ~

[@abc456f]

And it's perfect.

[@michaelgriggs8574]

Love Leon and I'm one of Willie's biggest fans but Ray took this song over and made it his own! It's almost unbelievable the amount of talent those three possess. God speed Ray and Leon.

[@berniceivery]

@ivery5000 👠👠 Willie looks like he wants to cry...So much RESPECT.

[@jacobc874]

They understood what was going on. That's real honor and respect right there brother. When Ray took the fore even Nelson and Leon, legends in their own right, stepped back and let the legend speak.

[@darrylcrum2495]

Didn't really like Charles's contribution.

[@johndelucchi719]

The last we heard of Ray and that's the last of him but there wasn't much left for Leon too. And he wrote this master piece.

[@wddub9075]

This was Willie’s favorite song in the world, and Ray just blew his mind performing it

[@ethanwalker6292]

My god, Ray's voice on this tune is just fantastic. He might be the best English language singer who has ever lived. with Willie as a close second.

[@rippleeffectcoaching]

There's a video with Ray singing it solo. Awesome!

[@MrLhward]

" A Song for You" is Leon Russell's masterpiece, but Ray Charles, oh my God.

[@GoodFigTree]

I watched an interview with Ray and he said Leon's Song For You was one of his favorite songs. Willie said it too. They were all tight friends for decades. This was Ray's last performance and they all knew it. This recording is a national treasure. Pure soul between three genius musicians who were long time friends. It was personal and they shared it with us. A blessing.

[@RachelAnderson-xv5kv]

I have seen Willie many times in concert. Never had the privilege to see Ray Charles or Leon Russell. We all know Ray was dying at the time. The song belongs to him. His emotional performance as he is obviously directly sing to Willie is both spellbinding and heartbreaking. I have to say, Willie held up like the trooper that he is. However, in all the times I have seen Willie, whether it be live or otherwise, I have never seen that kind of look on his face.

[@wendynine-sc2sv]

Tears in my eyes and yet, joy in my heart...touching, lovely. Bless them and all of us!

[@Lee-ot5es]

Times that can never be replaced…. Great performers. Greater times for America….Appreciation…

[@AmazingGrace-pd7zc]

​@@Lee-ot5esWell said, Lee!! Thank you Ray, Leon and Willie for sharing your gift of music with us! We are better for it! This ole world is better for having known you!! Peace, joy and love!!

[@angel83119]

I'm in tears. Seeing Willie looking at Ray that way and getting so emotional was so touching.

[@ubself]

Willie is choking back tears, bless his sweet heart❤️💛💚

[@cormacdavid7355]

Hello beautiful

[@anelladambrosio2513]

@@cormacdavid7355 ciao David! 🙋‍♀️😍😘💘🍀

[@donaldhamilton5345]

Aren't we all .

[@markhoffman2237]

This is one of the greatest live performances of a song I've ever seen or heard anywhere at any time. Ray Charles showed why people in the music business called him a genius. What a stunning performance. The look on Willie's face says it all.

[@harryjohnson6527]

We all knew the song was special thats how it became a classic but this performance makes it without place or time true to itself and these very special gentlemen are now immortals.

[@neilstucky6265]

This may be the most touching live performance I’ve ever seen

[@danielm4114]

Emotionally devastating. Ray bringing the pain like only Ray can. Amazing. A man who got down until the day he died. Never another like him.

[@victoriajohnson5461]

Amen.😔

[@rebeccalagace2336]

Amen!

[@LarsGsanger]

👍❤️

[@jacksoncornbreadmcbride6763]

Willie was getting choked up. He realized what he was witnessing.

[@hotdog6]

R.I.P. Mr. Leon Russell, and thank you for this beautiful song.

[@sv3931]

Yes. Thank you Leon, for an incredible lyric!

[@hotdog6]

And incredible music

[@eugenesargent7959]

The whole world is cutting onions.

[@phillyman9531]

Yah red unions

[@randythomas9087]

What,would you expect three guenyous,

[@pacrimco]

Every once in a great while, it all comes to gether perfectly. This was one of those very rare moments.

[@user-iw4gz7vh4w]

This always makes me cry. Ray Charles was dying of liver cancer at the time and Willie knew this was gonna be the last time he'd play with Ray. Leon and Willie both sang a verse but they let Ray have the floor. You can see Willie getting choked up but smiling at the same time. Powerful stuff.

[@johndaidone8031]

Truly beautiful

[@larrylinn8589]

They were and still are kindred spirits.

[@berniceivery]

@ivery5000 👠👠 Willie looks like he wants to cry...So much RESPECT.

[@JohnSmith-ft2tw]

Willie was bowed down with the pain he saw coming, his heart was on his sleeve, seeing the Shadow on the face of his lifelong friend. But then he straightened and accepted Destiny. I'm sure it didn't ease his pain, but his hurt would have been a hurt for his brother. Why can't we all be more like our heros? Why can't we at least try?

[@pennybenton5607]

Leon❣️❣️ and the look on Willies face, his admiration for Ray is incomparable. Bravo gentleman

[@cpSargo]

This video should be preserved in a museum. Leon Russell is not idle; he is performing motionless, Willie Nelson facials tell a thousand stories watching this semi-god's flawless performance. Art & Art History at its highest moments ...including tears and goosebumps

[@gailenefuller8330]

He truly loved him.

[@jclementediazdelavegaa3537]

Excelente Leon the best

[@vanessaverner8480]

All three are masters

[@bobsled4883]

Check out Rolling Stones , Copacabana...wild horses

[@rebeccalagace2336]

Absolutely Right! What a masterpiece!

[@VictoriaJohnson-j7k]

No over singing or trying to out sing the other just pure class.😢

[@csh8754]

Leon's contribution to this era of music is undeniable. Ray's beautiful take on it adds so much value 👏

[@MarttiSuomivuori]

People think that a gifted person just stands up and writes a song like this like this, because he is gifted. That's not how it happens. Leon russell was an extremely talented, thoroughly musically educated person who could have played sonatas for high-brow audiences but he became the man behind the Mad Dogs and Englishmen. A golden talent with megatons of hard work. Thank you. Leon!

[@LarsGsanger]

🙏❤️

[@margarethakloots5287]

Listening to songs you like is important. Songs calm you down when you are upset!

[@LarsGsanger]

❤️

[@sarahgarner5425]

Tears in my eyes. I'm speechless with admiration. What a treasure this is. Thanks.

[@rossscott1922]

Awesome 👏 you’re welcome… They have a soulful voice! This is my favorite song 🎶 so tell me are you a fan of Leon, Ray & Willie…?

[@steveprudell9976]

Exactly 💯

[@28daisies]

​@@rossscott1922I get shivers and my heart stops when Ray does the piano part.

[@rockers2rockers616]

Ray was singing to his friend Willie and Willie could feel it.

[@peggyfowler6497]

One of my all time favorites. Love it.

[@jessiem276]

I lost respect for Ray Charles when I saw him speaking horribly about Elvis Presley. I know for a fact that Elvis would NEVER have said ugly things about Ray. I'm just glad Elvis never heard Ray's hateful words. Elvis was a kind, generous, loving, Gentlemen. Too bad Ray felt the need to speak so hatefully about Elvis. I was a huge fan of Ray Charles ...and I wish I had never seen the video from the 80's, but that's what you find on KZbin ...the Good, Bad ...and the Ugly.

[@seventhchild7270]

@@jessiem276 2 SIDES TO EVERY STORY!...I too loved Elvis, but he too made derogatory comments also. Bottom line, both were young still growing, evolving, learning!...we All have said or done some things!...watch the interviews with Priscilla Presley...no one is perfect!....MUST show mercy, forgiveness, maturity!

[@christophermoorman4787]

Willie's about to cry at the end, damn thats sad to see

[@cherylwilder7369]

I got to see Ray Charles before he died ..a blessing....Jesus loves in a place where there is no space or time and came into our space to die on that cross for our sins..We are in the final days!!!

[@LarsGsanger]

❤️

[@charlenehardin1157]

Ray Charles is proof that miracles do happen. I smiled and cried my way through this beautiful performance.

[@janelucillehoobler]

I'm so lucky to have had such incredible music in my life .

[@chiro792222]

Leon sang it like a Leon song,Ray sang it like a Ray song and Willie did it like a Willie song. And it came out great.

[@Marianne1699]

Ray Charles took over this song completely in this recording - probably ok, because Leon at that time was quite fragile. And Ray did a fantastic job! But to be fair, it was Leon Russell who wrote the song and I still love his raw version from his studio recording from 1971. Leon had a certain nerve in his music - nobody could play the piano like him. He had a way of lifting his fingers off the piano keys to make a pause for everyone to wait in excitement for his next play - and it was worth wating for! Deep respect for those wonderful mucical wonders, who aren't with us anymore.

[@mijomcgyver6270]

As great as Willie & Leon are, even they stood in awe once Ray Charles started singing.

[@rogerlivingstone3528]

Ray was the greatest, period.

[@quincydavis9621]

This song goes out to my best friend who lost her mom yesterday of failure to thrive. 80+ she held upright FANTASTICALLY 2023😭😭😭😭❣️

[@richardblaze99]

This makes me cry each time. The power of life inside Ray Charles voice is just so overwhelming. It cannot get more soulful than this. Its like a full life of memories and moments condensed into a few minutes of singing... and it keeps building on, as if Ray himself could see his own life review flashing before his mind right there as he was singing... all the beauty, friendships etc... he was leaving it all there through each notes, each words. All his love and joy. Sang purely from his heart...its just too beautiful and grand. I mean you can feel it in Willie's face. It transcends. Makes you wanna live

[@smerchly]

Beautifully said !

[@edwardrmayer9807]

Can't express any better Nicolas, thank you, Ed.

[@maureenkindtcheckkindt1729]

Very good description!

[@chemapapas]

Happens the same to me. I've seen this video at least a hundred times and each time I've cried. Nothing can compare with the feeling of that moment right there

[@billridge7854]

Rejoice, don't cry.

[@rogerbarker2231]

I'VE BEEN A FAN OF ALL 3 FOR 25 YEARS, BUT AS SOON AS RAY STARTED SINGING, I GOT FULL BODY CHILLS AND STARTED CRYING. IT HIT ME REALLY HARD KNOWING THIS WAS ONE OF HIS LAST PERFORMANCES. THE WAY WILLIE LOOKS AT HIM KNOWING HIS FRIEND OF 30+ YEARS WAS DYING, CRUSHED ME.

[@christisolsberry2742]

Yes it's definitely crushing, emotional. But I 💜 it!!!

[@scottrackley4457]

Both Willie and Ray knew. Ray was saying goodbye to his friend.

[@dean3434]

Yes indeed. Lets all never forget those dear life long friends we have. Keep in touch with each other everyone and don't get lazy.

[@hazelpierre5912]

@@scottrackley4457 the

[@ugwucyprian4605]

Thank you Dr

[@MW-rq5uc]

Love Leon Russell.. sometimes when I hear songs like this that were a part of the fabric of my life back in 1973 - , I am amazed at how much we had...great songwriters, musicians, great lyrics,great voices. So lucky!

[@philip6894]

NO SO BLESSEDLY!

[@marywilliams242]

I agree, wonderful gifted musicians. Miss that time in my life. Remember seeing willie in Tahoe in the 80's. He shared his bottle of wisky with our table.

[@marylondonszpara1628]

watching Willie's emotional response to Ray was as good as it gets. THAT is why music is magic..it has the power to bring you to your knees. The best version of this remarkable song.

[@jaycos4905]

Mary London Szpara It’s obvious he’s realized he’s got no business in that stage!

[@keithbuck1668]

You couldn't hold a light to Willie. Don't be an ass.

[@85308arizonaboy]

I've always thought he knew he was watching Ray for what could be the last time....

[@whistlinpete67]

Kevin Finn You’re absolutely correct....

[@bethbartlett5692]

Point on - ❤

[@mewmeehan]

Watched so many times & always tears my heart to pieces. No egos -- all hearts. Willie breaks my heart & Leon steps back, never touching the keyboards, THIS IS LOVE !

[@danielkokal8819]

it was respect. and knowing when theyre outclassed. the look on willie's face said it all. it was reverence. all the sudden leon and willie were in church.

[@kylekhaos9941]

That was my true Thoughs on this ,I'm not a musician but I thought Ray took Leon and Willie's part and they were both happy he did

[@thundershirt1]

I was blessed enough to see Ray at a 9/11 benefit concert. I have always been a fan. But when i looked at how diverse the crowd was, people 20-80 I wondered how in the world could he handle that age range?! What songs would he do to get us all?! Of course, i should have spared myself the trouble. Ray had every soul in there in the palm of his hand from the moment he sat at his piano. He's one of those rare performers that makes you think he's speaking especially to you. Thanks for everything Ray, you made my life better.

[@robari2410]

It DOESN'T GET ANY BETTER THAN THIS!! Ray, Willie and Leon. Best of the Best in their own style and right!! Thank you Leon for this forever leave song!! ❤🙏🙏

[@elizabethmiddleton9113]

Dude… been listening to you since I was 14. You go Leon’ love you. I’m now 68’

[@gracebrown3494]

Ray took the lead and paid great respect to Leon and Willie as no one else could, from a man who appreciated the inclusion. RESPECT.

[@007tedward]

I'm a grown man in tears after watching this video...enough said!

[@jeffblythe569]

Me Too!

[@ford1svt]

Jeff Blythe Me three!

[@callmedonna7502]

I am woman and yes i cried.

[@michaelscott7462]

Rays singing and the look on tbe face of Willie is almost too much to behold.

[@joelserey8437]

Music can do that to us men ...

[@Sailingbill1]

I lived 5 blocks from Leon's house in Tulsa when I was a small kid, early 70's, and my best friend and I use to ride our bikes to his house, ring his gate bell and have conversations with his staff and band members. To this day, 40+ years later, I still remember how kind they were. Though I live 6,000 miles from there I still have a place in my heart for Leon. RIP and thank you for contributing your art to this world.

[@mojorising0071950]

He was a real person, good human being, but I was so shocked by how small he was, very small hands. My first husband toured with Leon in the mid 70s and he was a very interesting guy

[@sandrapalacio9614]

wow! thank you for sharing this. I loved leon. he radiated goodness

[@bigblueslover]

What was in the water in Tulsa. I can't believe how nobody connects the dots and gives credit or recognition to the AMAZING group of musicians that came up at the same time. Some get credit some don't but none get their just desserts

[@Sailingbill1]

@@bigblueslover Part of it has to do with the fact that Tulsa is insignificant. They had a long history of music and let it slide away as they embraced Tele Evangelists and to become one of the centers of that movement and the oppression that comes with it. Now? It continues to be one of many has been cities in the US.

[@pandybrokenhearts8172]

This is so moving ,all I feel is that I'm watching living legends spreading pure love together. ♡♡♡

[@kingali-el4416]

Dying with liver disease and he still put on an un4gettable performance...

[@bjbriz]

One of my all time favourite performances. Three absolute legends whose music made the world a better place. ❤

[@wddub9075]

That it did, that it did friend

[@farmerbill6855]

Two legends and Willie is more like it.

[@ellensugarmag3759]

My thoughts exactly ♥️

[@JenniferDeMetrovich]

Amen!!

[@margieguilfordwoman]

LEON, Great seeing you back at the helm once more...LOVE ya!

[@sharondturner]

It's unfortunate when people do not understand the nuances of art, dignity, respect and love that make life moments special and priceless. Ray Charles was singing this song TO Willie Nelson as an expression of the mutual love they had for each-other as friends, especially given that Ray was dying and both Willie and Leon knew that. It was Ray's homage to Leon and his tribute to Willie, it was not Ray hogging the song. If you can't look at Willie and see and feel and understand this, and if you cant listen to Ray and know this - you are missing some major ish in your life.

[@lewisc215]

why assume no one knows this?

[@timothylewis2450]

@@lewisc215 It is evident by many of the comments.

[@timothylewis2450]

@Sharon Turner Beautifully stated.

[@keithhicks3006]

Willie's face says it all watching Ray

[@davidvicari5139]

@@timothylewis2450 actually, what makes Art as produced by Leon, Willie and Ray work is the fact it is REACHING for people on a universal level, as much and as many as possible. Statements about how somebody “does not understand” flies in the face of the evidence before you- people do get it. That is the whole point, not some faux elitism.

[@gabrielladelacroix2179]

What a powerful moment..Yes, Willie knew..so did Ray ❤️ this must have been heart wrenching for Willie..you could feel the love and respect between these two legends ❤ watching this beautiful moment between these two friends brought me to tears…rest in peace Ray ❤️

[@DavidHall-d8q]

The Three Kings .... this song with these three men is a pinnacle for me . Don't get me wrong I love music from Patsy Cline to Meshuggah and Ministry but I know who the Kings are . When I get to heaven I hope I can listen to great music like this for eternity that is what heaven is to me . Tell me where have you been .. my blue eyed son,...where have you been my darling young one ............Well its hard...oh its hard ......Its a hard raaaain... gonna fall . You know this song . PK

[@pamelashuster9794]

My family's name is Charles. And my Dad was a big music fan. When he would play Ray Charles music, he would tell us that was our Uncle Ray. Now we were just little and we thought it was pretty cool!! And he would laugh while we all sat there listening or dancing around a little to the music. We are a White family and it was a few years before I knew that Ray Charles was a Black man. When I asked my Dad about it he would just laugh and say it was a joke he just couldn't resist. (My Dad was an only child). And I have called the man Uncle Ray ever since.

[@LarsGsanger]

❤️

[@MarttiSuomivuori]

I am just so very sad....Leon is gone, Ray is gone...the music still is with us, though. I was so lucky to have lived when these guys came about.

[@Buttsac]

i hope someone comes in that can at least bring this type of feeling back to music

[@40judi]

Didn't you hear? .. Willie is gone too - he was run over. :( Silly man was playing on the road again!

[@larrylinn8589]

@@40judi Willie Nelson summed it up. “I don't wanna be the last man standin' Or, wait a minute, maybe I do”

[@debrawatson4222]

Well said! I have been following since childhood. My father loved music as well.

[@juliam.mallen9019]

Phenomenal performance of true musical legends! Thank you so very much for sharing~ #pinhead,~ 🦢🐦

[@erudito94]

It is heart-breaking that this was basically Ray's way of saying goodbye to Willie, like he knew his time was soon. Even Willie knew it, and even cried from how emotional he got from it.

[@erudito94]

@Willie Nelson 🔵 I grew up listening to your music since I was a child. My father would play your records frequently on our old record player, so your music was a part of our home always. My father and I love music dearly, and we often went out to venues across the state to see live shows together, even attending more than a few of your picnics. We actually had the pleasure of meeting once, at a show you were playing at the Arena Theater in Houston. My whole family managed to get front row seats to the show, and had a wonderful time. My grandmother, who has since recently passed, met and talked a while with your sister Bobbie, Bee was egging me on to sing louder during "I'll Fly Away", and even getting to talk with you and Mickey before and after the show. Your music has always been a part of my life, and I still love and listen to it often. I am no longer a young boy as I once was, but now I am a grown man with a wife of my own, and maybe one day I can pass on your music to my future children as well. I just want to say thank you for giving us all so many great memories, simply by doing what you love and sharing it with us all.

[@thomasfitzsimmons897]

God bless you Willie. This song sends chills. I’m so grateful. Thank you

[@annmarierosenbaum9807]

Oh my goodness I'm just seeing this now. I loved Leon Russel may he RIP . Of course I love Willie Nelson and Ray Charles . I cried thru the entire song along with Willie. What a blessing to see all 3 together.

[@rossscott1922]

Awesome 👏 They have a soulful voice! This is my favorite song 🎶 so tell me are you a fan of Leon, Ray & Willie…?

[@RobertLaberge]

The piano run at 2:36 is bound to break everybody's heart.

[@jonathanroberts6434]

Omg yes

[@wandersonwheels2190]

Willie looks at Ray like he'd never actually see a piano truly played. Manm this is hard to watch, but it is sheer beauty and emotion. And LOVE.

[@larrylinn8589]

@Willie Nelson 🎵 Willie, to me. Ray, Leon and you are kindred spirits.

[@judyjae6022]

Three of the greatest musicians of all time...what else can one say?

[@waltermameli2026]

This video belongs in The Rock n Roll Hall of Fame.....Without question it was a moment in space and time.....

[@larryrussell5884]

Has there ever been a singer like Ray Charles? Will there ever be another one? I think so much emotion came from him into every line he sang, that it would be impossible for another to recreate that. As a naive little boy, I heard Ray on the radio and knew he was special. Over the years, I have come to understand he was more special than I realized. Rest in Peace Ray Charles. You brought peace and beauty into my life.

[@LarsGsanger]

❤️