I had the pleasure to see you live in Ottawa, Canada back in the 70s. You had a 5 piece band and man were you all amazing. You inspired me to keep picking and I was fortunate to be inducted into the American Federation of Musician's Guild Hall of Fame back in the early 2000s. Ray Stevens you are still my hero. God bless.
How wonderful to see Ray. He has a certain glow of a really good people. I still remember all his work. At 66 now he has been a mainstay in my musical life. Thanks so much for this.
Awe, man, what a colossal talent. Loved him all my life. I just had flashbacks of dying laughing with my old friends at Guitarzan and the Streak. Hes brought a lot of joy to people, cant ask more from life than that. Thanks, Joe.
Hey Ray, what a great opportunity to hear and watch you talking to Joe. You are one of the most talented people ever in the music business!! I’m not surprised you worked with every big star in the world either. I have laughed my tail off to your comic songs but my favorite song you ever did was Misty-the ORIGINAL version. I was in the entertainment business for years and listen closely to the songs I like. I could tell the difference between the original version and the newer version. I could only find the best one on a hits album. Glad I found it!! I bought it, too.
Ray's the same age as my Dad, but I grew up listening to Ray in the '60s & the '70s and watching him on TV. Ray doesn't have an "age group" that listens to his music, he spans all generations, I'm just glad that he's still around making people happy with his music.
Ray Stevens is highly regarded in the music world in every regard. I have been hearing his songs my entire life. I don't know if he ever played with one of my cousins but I do remember Joe South playing and singing with my cousin at my Uncles house. My Uncle and father would have a couple of snorts together well one evening they had a few toddies. Joe and Johnny (my cousin) were playing and I know they got sick of hearing Uncle and father saying play it again. The it was a Johnny Cash song How highs the water. I think they always got together there because there was a piano in the livingroom plus my Uncle encouraged everyone to play music.
What an outstanding interview with one of the greatest Ray Stevens !! Joe this is one of the top 3 episodes and I want to Thank You for everything. The Musicians Hall of Fame is a stroke of genius.
Ghost….. many thanks…… Ray is a true music legend……writer, singer, actor, comic, producer, publisher, singer and session musician…. It’s easy to take credit interviewing someone like Ray….. best, Joe
Ray Stevens is a true legend. Living in Australia, I only got to see him once. It was in 1969 at Sydney's Chevron Hilton hotel. I'll never forget that show. Ray was brilliant. I have all of his Mercury, Monument & Barnaby records. Incidentally, "Sunday Mornin' Comin' Down" WAS a hit in Australia. I think it's Ray's greatest recording.
What a wonderful interview. Ray is a genius and at 82 to say he is still learning how to write songs - that's why he's so great. He humbly keeps striving for perfection. Just visited the Musicians Hall of Fame and CabaRay where I enjoyed Ray's show, his appearance at his piano bar with the wonderful John Jonethis, and got to talk with him. He recorded four albums during the covid craziness when his club was closed. What an inspiration and a great person.
Another wonderful one. So glad to see Ray happy and healthy. What an amazing career. He came into The Nature Company in the Green Hills Mall to Christmas shop while I was a wannabe writer working there for the holiday of 1992. I’ve never forgotten how deeply exhausted he looked, his eyes were literally sunken in his head, but he was out there buying gifts nonetheless. Seems like a wonderful man.
That was great interview. I remember watching Ray perform at the Dessert Inn he always had a great show. I haven’t been to Nashville for several years but I would love to see him perform again. Now I have a good reason for a road trip.
Ray Stevens! Sitting here laughing our arses off watching the squirrel going berserk in the First Self-Righteous Church! Still hilarious! I take care of a spunky, spry 94 year old woman and I’m going to take it over there and give her a treat, too. Thanks for all the laughs-youre a national treasure!♥️
Before we ever got to know any better it was always thought that these guys were one hit wonders that never had a long and prosperous career. And then we hear the truth that guys like Ray Stevens wer a huge part of the music industry from behind the scenes. Thank you for a lifetime of music and thank you for these interviews.
@@MusiciansHallofFameMuseum You are the one to be thanked. But I do accept the thank you and you are very welcomed. I would say Tom fills the same as do. Who knows after this Covid stuff settles and as bad as I hate to travel anymore, maybe my wife and I will come visit The Musicians Hall of Fame & Museum. She loves Nashville.
Thanks Nelly... yes I loved Nashville from the first time I came here but I probably would have never left Georgia had I known about Bill Lowery music group. Kansas was/is one of my favorite bands too. David is a great musician both fiddle and guitar. Thanks for watching Nelly... hope your family has a great Thanksgiving... Joe
I remember seeing Ray singing "Silver Braclet" Jerry Reed singing " Bessie Baby" and Joe South singing "I'm Snowed" at the Paramount Theater in Atlanta in '57 They were great.
Again thanks Joe for the great interviews with the people who actually involved in making Music as well as understanding the business aspects of the MUSIC industry !
Thanks again Joe, it was wonderful to hear Ray Stevens talk. Also for me to associate the songs I heard and grew up with but never learned much about where they came from. 'The Streak" was one of those epic songs for a person in high school and I have no doubt it proved influential to one fella that pulled an epic by doing a wheelie on a motorcycle across the field at a high school football game completely naked but for shoes!
Another great interview under your belt Joe! I have been a fan of Ray Stevens for years. He’s done some marvelous work. It was clear to see the friendship you both have through the way you interact during the interview.You were both having a wonderful time.
Yet another terrific interview Joe! Ray seems like a really nice guy & talk about talent, WOW! That Chet Atkins story was really amazing. Thanks for all of these great videos. Hope that you & your family have a wonderful Turkey Day..... 👍😉
Your stories are great to listen to! Loved Ray Stevens when I was a kid! Ahab the Arab probably wouldn't fly nowadays but it was awesome back in the day. Great to see him doing well! Thanks!!!
Thanks for another great interview Joe. Ray is an amazing talent; loved his serious stuff every bit as much as his comedy. Even Stevens has been a favorite album of mine for decades (Mr. Businessman, etc.). And a classically trained musician, if I'm not mistaken. SO glad you got to interview him, and smiling broadly because you shared this with us. Yeah - Ray and Jim Stafford in the same room? I'd buy a ticket. Thanks again, Joe, as always.
Like I’ve said before, you must know every musician in the world! (or at least in the U.S.). I was in college when streaking was popular and was popularized by his song. I didn’t do it but I knew and saw a guy who did. Older people back then were appalled by it but it’s nothing compared to what goes on today. Another great interview! Thanks Joe.
Thank you for sharing a great nugget of your own experience in Nashville for all us on your birthday in 1978. You shook the hand of Chet Atkins and Ray Stevens standing there.next to Chet and how you felt afterwards and how Chet just looked at you!
Hi Jose..... yes that kinda thing made me know I was at the right place for me:)Glad you enjoyed hearing it.... I loved living it! Best, Joe
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@@MusiciansHallofFameMuseum Joe you need to write an autobiography. So much rich musical history of many generes plus the people, executives, producers, writers and of course the musicians that have been a part of your life! Happy Thanksgiving to you and your loved ones!
I'm listening to it as I type. I'm nearly 7 minutes into it...during the discussion of Bill Lowery. The PBS television series, 'CabaRay Nashville', is locally syndicated across the country. It's a half hour show...more than 70 episodes have been produced. I'm hoping some new productions of the TV show come along in 2021...whether he has a guest star or whether it's just him for the entire half hour. I'm assuming Ray will talk about the PBS show...so now I'll finish watching the interview and see what comes up in the conversation.
Hi Gary..... Thanks for watching....( Columbus was a great place to be raised in the 50’s, 60’s and 70’s especially to be in a garage band... lots of musicians and places to play.) Best... Joe
People love his comedy but he touched on some deeply serious subjects. Incredible songwriter. His tv show was great. Anybody remember the running gag with the burlap sack characters? Guffaw!
Once again, a very entertaining interview. I remember Ray’s music and TV show appearances fromthmy childhood. I liked the Song “Ahab the Arab” so much that my Godfather bought me the “45 RPM Single”. (Totally politically incorrect in today’s standard fun to listen to. We wore it out. On this end it’s always interesting how things in the music industry changed the .Then it was 45’s Now it’s MP3’s. You pushed to get your songs on the radio. Now you’re have to get your songs on Terrestetal Radio, Regular FM - AM stations, streaming platforms and “Playlists.” Back then there was 2 track analog tape Now, you can record digital multi track on your phone using the built in mike. But none of that changes the music that Ray Steven’s recorded and the millions the millions of people who enjoyed it.
I was aware of Ray Stevens but had no idea of how vast his experience was and you did a great job laying it all out. Side story: I'm a big folk music fan and would often hear the name Susie Ragsdale come up, but it was only a couple of years ago that I learned she is Ray's daughter. Talent clearly runs in that family. Thanks for the great videos Joe.
Ray Stevens brought me so many smiles over the years. Ahab The Arab was the first song I can remember hearing on the radio. 'with rings on her fingers and bells on her toes and a bone in her nose, ho ho....' made me laugh out loud. Silly songs, one after the other, came afterwards and as corny as they are, I still love 'em all....
Joe I just wanted to say thank you for your shows. I have learned alot of background knowledge from listening to you and your featured guest. No man's path to fame is the same and I find the stories fascinating. Because of your knowledge, you don't ask the typical questions but dig deeper and I find it very interesting. I'm looking forward to the next show no matter who it is, because everyone has something to give if you have the time to give them. I hope you had a good Christmas take care.
Joe, great interview and guest! Ray Stevens was the first big artist I ever saw in person! Ahab the Arab was a hit record and he came to Panama City Florida! As a ten year old country boy, it was probably the most exciting thing in my life until then! Everything Is Beautiful was a hit during my senior year in high school, a perfect uplifting song for the time, as there was so much chaos in the world! Ray is and always has been one favorite artist! Thanks for sharing, and happy Thanksgiving!💫
Thanks again Larry..... man ... Panama City beach was the first vacation I went on with my family. I remember there being only one..... yes one hotel. Left wing.... breezeway next to the office and right wing. One level.... wooden. The breezeway went straight to the pier where people were swimming below while fishermen were pulling up hammerhead sharks. I have pictures of them hanging by rope around their tails on the pier. We continued visiting there to Destin yearly until my kids grew up. Of course they still go now. I use to love riding the go carts even as a adult. My band use to play at some club on the beach in the early 70’s. Captain Anderson’s was my favorite restaurant. Okay... thanks for sending me down that memory lane...... best, Joe
@@MusiciansHallofFameMuseum , Joe, those were the days when Panama City Beach was a fun place to spend summer vacation! Still lots of short fishing going on from the pier! Captain Anderson’s is still at the top of the list for great restaurants! And yes, there were some great clubs where awesome bands played!💫
Thanks Tim.... so you noticed me doing that:) Glad you enjoyed it. Chet was truly a great man more than just a great musician. You would see Ray with Chet in public most of the time as their office buildings were a couple doors apart on Music Row. Best, Joe
You are a "Georgia Treasure", Joe. As I've remarked on all of your GA-related videos, thank you. From your musical brother-in-arms. Come home sometime, bro.
Hi David.... I really appreciate your comment..... I’m never far away from Georgia..... It was a great place for me to be brought up..... I pray you guys get this run off election right.... Best, Joe
@@MusiciansHallofFameMuseum Be assured that one old guitar player will be voting for freedom on January 5th. If I can just convince Joe Chambers to run for POTUS in 2024, we'll be set.
JOE! Another great one! Great way to welcome in the new year! After this COVID thing dies down, I’ll be heading back to 🇺🇸 for bit, and I’m gonna do my best to finally get down to Nashville. All the best for 2021!
Learned that you are originally from Columbus, GA. I've live here now for over 30 years. Small World. Also, in 2019 on a cruise around New Zealand we went to the BB King Blues Club on the ship. When they introduced the members of the band, lo and behold, the sax player was from Columbus, GA.
Hi KL.... If Rose Hill Seafood Market is still there you should go there. Best flounder and oyster stew anywhere! Fresh from the panhandle of Florida weekly. Country’s BBQ is great too. It was a great place to grow up too in the 50’s, 60’s and 70’s especially if you had a garage band like me. Thanks for watching... Joe
I had absolutely no idea that Ray penned 'Everything Is Beautiful'. It was indeed a well written tune. Also surprised to learn that he was an instrumentalist. I never pitched my tunes to his publishing company because I was afraid that my stuff wouldn't be eclectic enough. I wondered if you'd ever get around to interviewing him. Another great interview, Joe.
Jo you are amazing I'd love to meet you in person one day when we visit the MHO Fame.. thankyou for introducing the great music stars .. but more important you revel a bit of the person behind the persona !!
Joe, you and James Lipton, of the Actor's Studio series, are two of my favorite interviewers and I have many interviews from each of you saved/bookmarked. You take enough time in your videos to actually cover your guest and get them to open up and talk with you. Thanks for your many interesting conversations.
Oh wow, that clip of Shelby Singleton discussing Ray's under-rated genius when it comes to music arranging...wasn't expecting to see it. Ray's a multi-instrumentalist...but as we know his main instrument of choice is the piano/keyboard. He himself is a music publisher, too. These kinds of interviews allow people to see how multifaceted Ray truly is...a general audience tends to only see him as a comic and nothing more.
Incredibly talented as a musician, writer, singer and entertainer. He’s done a lot of funny material, but also some serious stuff. Give a listen to his 1968 hit “Mr Businessman”.
Joe, this is the order in which my kids (18-boy, 17-girl) were educated in music. Bob Dylan-Like a Rolling Stone, Bob Marley-3 Little Birds, Beatles-Hello Goodbye, Ray Stevens-Cactus Pete and Lefty, Jerry Reed-When your Hot your hot, Bee Gees, Ronnie Milsap, Eddie Rabbitt, Hall & Oates, Phil Collins. It was very important for my little kids to know what a "heely monster" is.
He calmly mentioned everybody who was top 40 in the 60's and 70's..Like a Paul McCartney reminiscing..or in this venue,Willie Nelson...matter of factly "I was everywhere and new everybody".
I'm sure the novelty songs paid the bills, but the first time I heard Ray Stevens sit down at the piano and play "Everything Is Beautiful" (on one of the Ralph Emory TV jam sessions) I wondered why he wasted his time with stuff like The Streak. Jaw droppingly great. He's easily more talented as a musician than he is anything else. Such a talent.
He is seriously underrated as a serious artist. Sure he has made me laugh a lot but I just feel he doesnt get enough credit for more serious material. He has even sang some truly fantastic non-comedic love songs.
Great show Joe as usual. My favorite song that Ray wrote is a song called My True Confession that he co-wrote with Margie Singleton. Could you please have Jerry Kennedy and Margie Singleton on your show in the future🙏
Hi Thulani...... Thanks for watching.... I’ve got the full interview that I showed a tiny clip from on Ray’s interview that’s coming out soon... It’s really good but I haven’t met Margie. I also have a interview with Jerry from around 2004 when I did Shelby’s. That will be up loaded too soon. Thanks again for watching... Joe
@@MusiciansHallofFameMuseum That's awesome Joe. I was a fan of Brook Benton and I had a chance to spend some time with Margie and Jerry last summer. I am in Durban, South Africa.
It was an absolute pleasure to be on the show! Hope you all enjoy it!
I certainly did!
It was a privilege to see you and hear your stories!!
Thank you for your genius and humility!
It was an absolute pleasure to take part of it! Thanks so much. Hope you get the chance to open your show room soon!
I had the pleasure to see you live in Ottawa, Canada back in the 70s. You had a 5 piece band and man were you all amazing. You inspired me to keep picking and I was fortunate to be inducted into the American Federation of Musician's Guild Hall of Fame back in the early 2000s. Ray Stevens you are still my hero. God bless.
Thank you Mr. Stevens, a lifetime of memories. Great job Joe.
Thanks to Ray Stevens... I ran Necked through my JR High School..."The Streak"....in Marietta Georgia...JJ Daniel in 1975. Miss you DD...RIP...TY Joe
Thanks Phil....Joe
How wonderful to see Ray. He has a certain glow of a really good people. I still remember all his work. At 66 now he has been a mainstay in my musical life. Thanks so much for this.
The talent of Ray Stevens is off the charts.
The loneliness that came through Rays version of 'Sunday Morning Coming Down' made it stand above all other versions.
Bless you, Ray. You’ve brought a lot of happiness to so many people over your life, and you seem like a fine man. Thanks for this, Joe.
Thanks Poco... Joe
How not laugh whe he sings
Awe, man, what a colossal talent. Loved him all my life. I just had flashbacks of dying laughing with my old friends at Guitarzan and the Streak. Hes brought a lot of joy to people, cant ask more from life than that. Thanks, Joe.
Thank you Roger... joe
Funny that I just heard Ray sing on Mike Huckabee’s show. Sounds as strong as ever! Great interview Joe!
Thanks Michael... Joe
Yes you know you can't keep a good man down and Ray stevens is that man
My youngest son loved the song Ned Nostrill. Great song Ray. So sorry about your wife 's illness praying for her. Love a fan
Hey Ray, what a great opportunity to hear and watch you talking to Joe. You are one of the most talented people ever in the music business!! I’m not surprised you worked with every big star in the world either. I have laughed my tail off to your comic songs but my favorite song you ever did was Misty-the ORIGINAL version. I was in the entertainment business for years and listen closely to the songs I like. I could tell the difference between the original version and the newer version. I could only find the best one on a hits album. Glad I found it!! I bought it, too.
Thanks for watching Lowell...Joe
AS ALWAYS JOE GREAT SHOW, I'M A LITTLE BEHIND THE TIMES! BETTER LATE THAN NEVER!!
thanx for having Ray! a blast from my childhood!
Thanks for watching Kent... joe
Fantastic! Thank you very much from St Marychurch, Torbay, England!!!!!.................
Thanks for watching Michael... best to everyone in Torbay.... joe
I love Ray Stevens. My two favorites are It's me again Margaret, and Misty. These interviews are great. BTW,I have a sister named Ethel.
Thanks for watching Jimmy... joe
Ray's the same age as my Dad, but I grew up listening to Ray in the '60s & the '70s and watching him on TV. Ray doesn't have an "age group" that listens to his music, he spans all generations, I'm just glad that he's still around making people happy with his music.
Thanks for watching Fred..... joe
I have always enjoyed everything Ray has done in his Life. Such a Great Interview, and a Great man.
Ray Stevens is highly regarded in the music world in every regard. I have been hearing his songs my entire life. I don't know if he ever played with one of my cousins but I do remember Joe South playing and singing with my cousin at my Uncles house. My Uncle and father would have a couple of snorts together well one evening they had a few toddies. Joe and Johnny (my cousin) were playing and I know they got sick of hearing Uncle and father saying play it again. The it was a Johnny Cash song
How highs the water. I think they always got together there because there was a piano in the livingroom plus my Uncle encouraged everyone to play music.
I’ve loved Ray Stevens ever since I was a little boy. I loved those early records. Good memories 😊
What an outstanding interview with one of the greatest
Ray Stevens !! Joe this is one of the top 3 episodes and I want to Thank You for everything. The Musicians Hall of Fame is a stroke of genius.
Ghost….. many thanks…… Ray is a true music legend……writer, singer, actor, comic, producer, publisher, singer and session musician…. It’s easy to take credit interviewing someone like Ray….. best, Joe
I had no idea that Ray did A&R or all those incredible sessions. Then there's all his hits. What a monstrous career he has had.
Thanks for watching Bass..... joe
That's why one needs to watch Joe's interviews!
Thanks Tom..... best... joe ( Happy Thanksgiving too)
Ray Stevens is a true legend. Living in Australia, I only got to see him once. It was in 1969 at Sydney's Chevron Hilton hotel. I'll never forget that show. Ray was brilliant. I have all of his Mercury, Monument & Barnaby records. Incidentally, "Sunday Mornin' Comin' Down" WAS a hit in Australia. I think it's Ray's greatest recording.
Thanks for watching Colin...Joe
Just think Joe If you could have locked Mr. Stevens & Mr. Jim Stafford in a room for a weekend... Holy Moly !!! THANKS Joe.
Heads would explode blue... those two are too much!! Best, Joe
Two of the funniest guys ever!
Bridget The Midget and Mr. Businessman are absolute classics. Completely different and shows the flexibility of the composer and singer.
The man sure put a lot of laughs and good memories in my life ! Thanks Ray. 😄
Thanks for sharing your memories Sarge...... Joe
Ray Stevens was a giant part of our lives back in the early 70's.
Great as always, Joe. And I remember those block parties as well... good times 👍
It's all fun and games until Ray sits behind a grand piano plays so masterfully.
How wonderful to hear him again. New sub and lovin it.
What a wonderful interview. Ray is a genius and at 82 to say he is still learning how to write songs - that's why he's so great. He humbly keeps striving for perfection. Just visited the Musicians Hall of Fame and CabaRay where I enjoyed Ray's show, his appearance at his piano bar with the wonderful John Jonethis, and got to talk with him. He recorded four albums during the covid craziness when his club was closed. What an inspiration and a great person.
Mr Stevens thank you for all of your hard work and songs. I really enjoyed your music 11:01
Another wonderful one. So glad to see Ray happy and healthy. What an amazing career. He came into The Nature Company in the Green Hills Mall to Christmas shop while I was a wannabe writer working there for the holiday of 1992. I’ve never forgotten how deeply exhausted he looked, his eyes were literally sunken in his head, but he was out there buying gifts nonetheless. Seems like a wonderful man.
Thanks for sharing SGC........ Joe
RAY STEVENS, YOU STILL HAVE THAT BOYISH SMIRK ON YOUR FACE!! SAME FOR YOU JOE!!
That was great interview. I remember watching Ray perform at the Dessert Inn he always had a great show. I haven’t been to Nashville for several years but I would love to see him perform again. Now I have a good reason for a road trip.
Ray Stevens! Sitting here laughing our arses off watching the squirrel going berserk in the First Self-Righteous Church! Still hilarious! I take care of a spunky, spry 94 year old woman and I’m going to take it over there and give her a treat, too. Thanks for all the laughs-youre a national treasure!♥️
Before we ever got to know any better it was always thought that these guys were one hit wonders that never had a long and prosperous career. And then we hear the truth that guys like Ray Stevens wer a huge part of the music industry from behind the scenes. Thank you for a lifetime of music and thank you for these interviews.
This is excellent. 👍🏻😎
Thanks David... Joe
I saw Ray at Disney in Orlando the first year it opened! I laughed and enjoyed his music so much!
Ray's version of "Misty" is still one of my favorite songs. He does magic with music.
Thanks. I love Ray Stevens.
Thanks for watching Charlotte... joe
Thanks for all these interviews. Great insight to the careers and lives of our favorites. Be blessed and have a Happy Thanksgiving.
Sonya... thank you very much and I wish you a very safe and happy Thanksgiving too!! Sincerely, Joe
I always enjoy your interviews! Thank you!
Thank you 12.... joe
Never knew he was so prolific! Keep ‘em coming Joe! And, thanks again!!!
Thanks Ernesto..... joe
Ray is a International treasure Thank you Mr. Stevens and Thank You Joe and all the good folks at MHFM
Thanks for watching again LSAC...Joe
Always loved Ray Stevens stuff. Had no idea his roots we're so deep in music industry. Thanks for the great programs Joe!
Thank you for watching Charles... Joe
As always another great interview of a great artist.
Nobody is a better interviewer than Joe.
Thanks Bryan... joe
Tom... you’re extremely kind... thanks, Joe
@@MusiciansHallofFameMuseum You are the one to be thanked. But I do accept the thank you and you are very welcomed. I would say Tom fills the same as do.
Who knows after this Covid stuff settles and as bad as I hate to travel anymore, maybe my wife and I will come visit The Musicians Hall of Fame & Museum. She loves Nashville.
Look forward to seeing you guys... joe
Love 'Kansas' too Glad you moved from Georgia to Nashville both of you Wonderful interview
Thanks Nelly... yes I loved Nashville from the first time I came here but I probably would have never left Georgia had I known about Bill Lowery music group. Kansas was/is one of my favorite bands too. David is a great musician both fiddle and guitar. Thanks for watching Nelly... hope your family has a great Thanksgiving... Joe
@@MusiciansHallofFameMuseum Thanks so much Joe hope your holidays are wonderful too
I remember seeing Ray singing "Silver Braclet" Jerry Reed singing " Bessie Baby" and Joe South singing "I'm Snowed" at the Paramount Theater in Atlanta in '57 They were great.
Again thanks Joe for the great interviews with the people who actually involved in making Music as well as understanding the business aspects of the MUSIC industry !
John.... thank you again for watching our channel... very much appreciated.... Merry Christmas.... Joe
Joe thanks for doing this! Hope you are well and keep it up! Very interesting! These will be cherished forever!
Thank you Bruce... much appreciated... Joe
Thanks again Joe, it was wonderful to hear Ray Stevens talk. Also for me to associate the songs I heard and grew up with but never learned much about where they came from. 'The Streak" was one of those epic songs for a person in high school and I have no doubt it proved influential to one fella that pulled an epic by doing a wheelie on a motorcycle across the field at a high school football game completely naked but for shoes!
Hi Craig... thanks for watching... yes I’m sure your right about the motorcycle guy:)... best... Joe
Wow, brilliant interview Joe ,and Ray. I love this MHOF shows..
Thank you Andrew.... hope you and family are having a great Thanksgiving... Best... Joe
@@MusiciansHallofFameMuseum Thanks Joe ,and you and yours as well..Enjoy..
As always Joe, fantastic interview!! Ray Stevens is as legendary as they get! God bless him ⭐️
Thanks as always minister.....Joe
Another great interview under your belt Joe! I have been a fan of Ray Stevens for years. He’s done some marvelous work. It was clear to see the friendship you both have through the way you interact during the interview.You were both having a wonderful time.
Thanks for watching Jim.... happy Thanksgiving... best, Joe
one of my all time fav people Love Ray would so love to meet him some day and tell him Thanks
Yet another terrific interview Joe! Ray seems like a really nice guy & talk about talent, WOW! That Chet Atkins story was really amazing. Thanks for all of these great videos. Hope that you & your family have a wonderful Turkey Day..... 👍😉
Thank you too Steve... best to you and family... joe
You got that right 💯 percent
Thanks Joe!
Thank you too Tom... Joe
Your stories are great to listen to! Loved Ray Stevens when I was a kid! Ahab the Arab probably wouldn't fly nowadays but it was awesome back in the day. Great to see him doing well! Thanks!!!
Thanks Maggie.... Joe
... Another good one Professor Joe ...
Thanks Billy.... Joe
Hes such a skilled musician.
Thanks for another very enjoyable interview, Joe!
Thanks Arne... joe
Enjoyed every minute of this it was awesome
Thanks Pamela... joe
Thanks for another great interview Joe. Ray is an amazing talent; loved his serious stuff every bit as much as his comedy. Even Stevens has been a favorite album of mine for decades (Mr. Businessman, etc.). And a classically trained musician, if I'm not mistaken. SO glad you got to interview him, and smiling broadly because you shared this with us. Yeah - Ray and Jim Stafford in the same room? I'd buy a ticket. Thanks again, Joe, as always.
Thank you just as much for watching.... best, Joe
Like I’ve said before, you must know every musician in the world! (or at least in the U.S.). I was in college when streaking was popular and was popularized by his song. I didn’t do it but I knew and saw a guy who did. Older people back then were appalled by it but it’s nothing compared to what goes on today. Another great interview! Thanks Joe.
Thank you again Mike.... Joe
Lovin' it Joe! Thank You!
Thank you Vic... joe
Thank you for sharing a great nugget of your own experience in Nashville for all us on your birthday in 1978. You shook the hand of Chet Atkins and Ray Stevens standing there.next to Chet and how you felt afterwards and how Chet just looked at you!
Hi Jose..... yes that kinda thing made me know I was at the right place for me:)Glad you enjoyed hearing it.... I loved living it! Best, Joe
@@MusiciansHallofFameMuseum Joe you need to write an autobiography. So much rich musical history of many generes plus the people, executives, producers, writers and of course the musicians that have been a part of your life!
Happy Thanksgiving to you and your loved ones!
I'm listening to it as I type. I'm nearly 7 minutes into it...during the discussion of Bill Lowery. The PBS television series, 'CabaRay Nashville', is locally syndicated across the country. It's a half hour show...more than 70 episodes have been produced. I'm hoping some new productions of the TV show come along in 2021...whether he has a guest star or whether it's just him for the entire half hour. I'm assuming Ray will talk about the PBS show...so now I'll finish watching the interview and see what comes up in the conversation.
... In both music, and comedy, Ray Stevens was the best!
Thanks for sharing your thoughts Joe.....Joe
Not a musician, but I am loving your channel! So much history to our music. Thanks for what you do. (btw, I was born ib Columbus, as well)
Hi Gary..... Thanks for watching....( Columbus was a great place to be raised in the 50’s, 60’s and 70’s especially to be in a garage band... lots of musicians and places to play.)
Best... Joe
You don't have to be a musician to be in love with music !
People love his comedy but he touched on some deeply serious subjects. Incredible songwriter.
His tv show was great. Anybody remember the running gag with the burlap sack characters? Guffaw!
You are the best interviewer
Thank you Kenny. I appreciate it. Joe
Once again, a very entertaining interview. I remember Ray’s music and TV show appearances fromthmy childhood. I liked the Song “Ahab the Arab” so much that my Godfather bought me the “45 RPM Single”. (Totally politically incorrect in today’s standard fun to listen to. We wore it out. On this end it’s always interesting how things in the music industry changed the .Then it was 45’s Now it’s MP3’s. You pushed to get your songs on the radio. Now you’re have to get your songs on Terrestetal Radio, Regular FM - AM stations, streaming platforms and “Playlists.” Back then there was 2 track analog tape Now, you can record digital multi track on your phone using the built in mike. But none of that changes the music that Ray Steven’s recorded and the millions the millions of people who enjoyed it.
Thanks for watching Skip....Joe
YOU WERE SO LUCKY LOVE LOVE Brother Ray would so so so love to meet him some day he always makes me laugh
I was aware of Ray Stevens but had no idea of how vast his experience was and you did a great job laying it all out.
Side story: I'm a big folk music fan and would often hear the name Susie Ragsdale come up, but it was only a couple of years ago that I learned she is Ray's daughter. Talent clearly runs in that family.
Thanks for the great videos Joe.
Thanks Paul..... Joe
Ray Stevens brought me so many smiles over the years. Ahab The Arab was the first song I can remember hearing on the radio. 'with rings on her fingers and bells on her toes and a bone in her nose, ho ho....' made me laugh out loud. Silly songs, one after the other, came afterwards and as corny as they are, I still love 'em all....
Joe I just wanted to say thank you for your shows. I have learned alot of background knowledge from listening to you and your featured guest.
No man's path to fame is the same and I find the stories fascinating. Because of your knowledge, you don't ask the typical questions but dig deeper and I find it very interesting. I'm looking forward to the next show no matter who it is, because everyone has something to give if you have the time to give them. I hope you had a good Christmas take care.
Thank you Joseph.... I hope you too had a great Christmas. Best....Joe
Joe, great interview and guest! Ray Stevens was the first big artist I ever saw in person! Ahab the Arab was a hit record and he came to Panama City Florida! As a ten year old country boy, it was probably the most exciting thing in my life until then! Everything Is Beautiful was a hit during my senior year in high school, a perfect uplifting song for the time, as there was so much chaos in the world! Ray is and always has been one favorite artist! Thanks for sharing, and happy Thanksgiving!💫
Thanks again Larry..... man ... Panama City beach was the first vacation I went on with my family. I remember there being only one..... yes one hotel. Left wing.... breezeway next to the office and right wing. One level.... wooden. The breezeway went straight to the pier where people were swimming below while fishermen were pulling up hammerhead sharks. I have pictures of them hanging by rope around their tails on the pier. We continued visiting there to Destin yearly until my kids grew up. Of course they still go now. I use to love riding the go carts even as a adult. My band use to play at some club on the beach in the early 70’s. Captain Anderson’s was my favorite restaurant. Okay... thanks for sending me down that memory lane...... best, Joe
@@MusiciansHallofFameMuseum , Joe, those were the days when Panama City Beach was a fun place to spend summer vacation! Still lots of short fishing going on from the pier! Captain Anderson’s is still at the top of the list for great restaurants! And yes, there were some great clubs where awesome bands played!💫
Great interview Joe!
Thanks spike... joe
What a great interview Joe. I really love the personal story’s about Chet and how it got Ray to really open up.
Thanks Tim.... so you noticed me doing that:) Glad you enjoyed it. Chet was truly a great man more than just a great musician. You would see Ray with Chet in public most of the time as their office buildings were a couple doors apart on Music Row.
Best, Joe
You are a "Georgia Treasure", Joe. As I've remarked on all of your GA-related videos, thank you. From your musical brother-in-arms. Come home sometime, bro.
Hi David.... I really appreciate your comment..... I’m never far away from Georgia..... It was a great place for me to be brought up..... I pray you guys get this run off election right.... Best, Joe
@@MusiciansHallofFameMuseum Be assured that one old guitar player will be voting for freedom on January 5th. If I can just convince Joe Chambers to run for POTUS in 2024, we'll be set.
JOE! Another great one! Great way to welcome in the new year!
After this COVID thing dies down, I’ll be heading back to 🇺🇸 for bit, and I’m gonna do my best to finally get down to Nashville.
All the best for 2021!
Hi Stu.... Thanks again for watching... I’m hoping to get a vaccine shot soon myself. I look forward to seeing you and family soon too... Best...Joe
Learned that you are originally from Columbus, GA. I've live here now for over 30 years. Small World. Also, in 2019 on a cruise around New Zealand we went to the BB King Blues Club on the ship. When they introduced the members of the band, lo and behold, the sax player was from Columbus, GA.
Hi KL.... If Rose Hill Seafood Market is still there you should go there. Best flounder and oyster stew anywhere! Fresh from the panhandle of Florida weekly. Country’s BBQ is great too. It was a great place to grow up too in the 50’s, 60’s and 70’s especially if you had a garage band like me. Thanks for watching... Joe
I had absolutely no idea that Ray penned 'Everything Is Beautiful'. It was indeed a well written tune. Also surprised to learn that he was an instrumentalist. I never pitched my tunes to his publishing company because I was afraid that my stuff wouldn't be eclectic enough. I wondered if you'd ever get around to interviewing him. Another great interview, Joe.
Thanks Johnny.... joe
Jo you are amazing I'd love to meet you in person one day when we visit the MHO Fame.. thankyou for introducing the great music stars .. but more important you revel a bit of the person behind the persona !!
I look forward to seeing you too poo.... joe
Joe, you and James Lipton, of the Actor's Studio series, are two of my favorite interviewers and I have many interviews from each of you saved/bookmarked. You take enough time in your videos to actually cover your guest and get them to open up and talk with you.
Thanks for your many interesting conversations.
Oh wow, that clip of Shelby Singleton discussing Ray's under-rated genius when it comes to music arranging...wasn't expecting to see it. Ray's a multi-instrumentalist...but as we know his main instrument of choice is the piano/keyboard. He himself is a music publisher, too. These kinds of interviews allow people to see how multifaceted Ray truly is...a general audience tends to only see him as a comic and nothing more.
Thanks for watching ACF.... joe
Hi,Ray.
Incredibly talented as a musician, writer, singer and entertainer. He’s done a lot of funny material, but also some serious stuff. Give a listen to his 1968 hit “Mr Businessman”.
"LITERALLY hot" records!
Joe, this is the order in which my kids (18-boy, 17-girl) were educated in music. Bob Dylan-Like a Rolling Stone, Bob Marley-3 Little Birds, Beatles-Hello Goodbye, Ray Stevens-Cactus Pete and Lefty, Jerry Reed-When your Hot your hot, Bee Gees, Ronnie Milsap, Eddie Rabbitt, Hall & Oates, Phil Collins. It was very important for my little kids to know what a "heely monster" is.
Thanks for sharing Dewey.... Joe
I think Ray's take on Misty is as inventive as anything he ever did...........and he's done a ton of inventive stuff.
He calmly mentioned everybody who was top 40 in the 60's and 70's..Like a Paul McCartney reminiscing..or in this venue,Willie Nelson...matter of factly "I was everywhere and new everybody".
As a kid, The Streak was a favorite of mine.
Thanks for sharing Op........ Joe
I didn't wear a mask......but I do now....how times have changed.....
Hi Vic... thanks again for watching ... Joe
I'm sure the novelty songs paid the bills, but the first time I heard Ray Stevens sit down at the piano and play "Everything Is Beautiful" (on one of the Ralph Emory TV jam sessions) I wondered why he wasted his time with stuff like The Streak. Jaw droppingly great. He's easily more talented as a musician than he is anything else. Such a talent.
Thanks for watching Floyd... Joe
He is seriously underrated as a serious artist. Sure he has made me laugh a lot but I just feel he doesnt get enough credit for more serious material. He has even sang some truly fantastic non-comedic love songs.
Haha Small World, I love Kansas And David Is A Great Guy, I love Ray Too.!!! BTW I wish Kansas Got More Recognition. Cheers.
Love all Ray's stuff. But, blue cyclone is a special one for me..
Wow! great interview. How many people get a multi-album record deal after they are 80? I'm looking forward to those albums.
Thanks for watching Shazam... joe
@@MusiciansHallofFameMuseum Clyde is happy!
Would Love to meet Ray !!
❤️
Great show Joe as usual. My favorite song that Ray wrote is a song called My True Confession that he co-wrote with Margie Singleton.
Could you please have Jerry Kennedy and Margie Singleton on your show in the future🙏
Hi Thulani...... Thanks for watching.... I’ve got the full interview that I showed a tiny clip from on Ray’s interview that’s coming out soon... It’s really good but I haven’t met Margie. I also have a interview with Jerry from around 2004 when I did Shelby’s. That will be up loaded too soon. Thanks again for watching... Joe
@@MusiciansHallofFameMuseum That's awesome Joe. I was a fan of Brook Benton and I had a chance to spend some time with Margie and Jerry last summer. I am in Durban, South Africa.
It’s a Rainy Night In Georgia...... loved that record and song written by my friend Tony Joe White. Thanks again for watching .... Joe