David 'Fathead' Newman - Hard Times

Album: "Fathead: Ray Charles Presents David Newman" (1958)
The talented David Newman, who alternates on this album between tenor and alto, made his debut as a leader at this session. Since he was in Ray Charles' band at the time, Newman was able to use Charles on piano along with Hank Crawford (here called "Bennie Crawford") on baritone, trumpeter Marcus Belgrave, bassist Edgar Willis, and drummer Milt Turner. The music is essentially soulful bebop, with the highlights including "Hard Times," "Fathead," "Mean to Me," and "Tin Tin Deo." Everyone plays well and this was a fine start to David "Fathead" Newman's career. This historic set was issued on CD by Collectables in 2005. (Scott Yanow - All Music Guide)

[robertquay]

Takes me back to Joel Dorn's 60's program in Philly. This was his opening music to his show. I never tired of this.

[franke]

When I was in college, at midnight the local radio station would play this aa they signed off. Everyone piled into my room to listen. Wonderful music.

[c.thompson]

Love the harmonies and soulfulness of this song. What else do you expect to hear from the Ray Charles group? Nice to hear this again after so many years. My man Marcus Belgrave on trumpet. A much underrated trumpeter. God rest his soul. Thanks for posting Philip Foster.

[danjv]

This song sums up what provokes men and women to play the blues. Reaches down onto your soul to comfort your suffering.

[Thejazzfan]

I love this tune. My dad used to play jazz like this. I like it because it’s accessible, soulful and melodic. Great music!

[toddmerriss]

Amazing! Thanks Ray Charles for introducing this great man to the world! His style is as sweet and cool as chocolate ice cream.

[davidbej]

As good as it gets..Newman is brilliant!

[jorgecastro]

A good song anytime especially during these trying times.

[Redlip-qb]

That lick going into first chorus is killer

[JazzPublicist]

Have always loved Newman's playing.

[customkey]

Philly! Who remembers this at 10pm every night on 96.5 WHAT-fm? Thank you Joel Dorn.

[gprosser]

Fathead Newman -Hard Times ..1958..thnx. Philip Foster..enjoyed..

[Transition]

Philip Foster Thanks for the great music!

[rodneyscott]

This was Sid Mark's theme song for many years on a Philly jazz station before he went exclusively Frank Sinatra.

[josephlopez]

I'm here because of SRV...I don't regret hearing this😁

[hankinsjane]

Fathead - Alto
Ray Charles - Piano
Milton Turner - Drums
Marcus Belgrave- Trumpet
Edgar Willis - Bass
Bennie "hank" Crawford - Bari sax

[coachblwilliams]

What blockheads didn't like this song?