Idols and influences of JOHNNIE RAY

Mercury LP by Sophie Tucker

 Sophie Tucker
"If you wanna' make it in show business, kid, get the hell out of Portland."  -Sophie Tucker (1884-1966) to Johnnie Ray in the mid-1940's

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 Billie Holliday
"... has warmth and depth in her approach. I love that girl."      -Johnnie Ray

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 Mahalia Jackson
"... Another artist who commands my deepest respect..." -Johnnie Ray

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 Ivory Joe Hunter
"... one of my favorite composers." -Johnnie Ray

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 LaVern Baker
"I was moved no end by the work of LaVern Baker."-Johnnie Ray

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 Kay Starr
"...he [Johnnie] did love Kay Starr."   -Elma Ray

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 Dinah Washington
Quoted as one of Johnnie's "favourite singers" on page 68 of "The Johnnie Ray Story" booklet published my The New Musical Express & Hit Parade.

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 Capitol Records
"...the groovy label I wanted to be on."   -Johnnie Ray