“Don’t Change On Me”
Song by Ray Charles
“Don’t Change On Me” is a highlight of Ray’s 1970 album Love Country Style. The sweetly melodic number is the fourth song on Side 1 and was released as a single.
“Don’t Change On Me” isn’t really in much of a country style; it’s more pop/R&B with subtle orchestra touches. Ray seems to be a vocalist only here: his famed keyboard has opted to sit this one out. The song is pulled along by a crunchy but unobtrusive R&B guitar.
The Raelets offer their usual support but are relegated to a minor background role on “Don’t Change On Me”. The song’s verses are short and uncluttered – it feels like they shoot by quickly before you even have the chance to ponder them. They really exist just to provide balance to the choruses because it’s there that “Don’t Change On Me” really shines.
Each chorus is basically built around the title phrase, repeated several times. Bigger and more stirring instrumentation constantly surges upwards as Ray and his singing ladies pledge their love to one another with increasing intensity.
Ol’ Ray gets in some great soulful improvisations in the long fadeout. With the melody and sentiment having been taken care of handily he just throws himself into the vocals with special relish. Couldn’t nobody preach like Ray Charles!
Single releases
Listen to “Don’t Change On Me”
Get your own “Don’t Change On Me” on 45, LP or MP3 from Amazon. Or get the out-of-print complete ABC singles 5xCD box set.
Songs on Love Country Style