Review By Matt Wong & Staff
“Gimme Cracked Corn ” begins with keys, bass, and drums supporting melodic saxophone riffs played by Tim Hoke which alternate between playing the rhythm section hits and flowing soulful lines. Right away, the above par talent on this track stands out and grabs your attention.
With the first chorus, Deiz’ soothing and rich vocals enter with a bluesy melody, taking the lead from the saxophone. Halfway through the first chorus, the saxophone returns, once again alternating between playing rhythmic hits with the rhythm section and filling between phrases with tasty lines.
The second chorus features a well-conceived musical conversation between Deiz and the saxophone, piquing the listeners’ interest and giving them fresh melodic content. The saxophone follows and unleashes a fiery, yet soulful solo over another chorus. Deiz’ wonderful vocals return after the solo to a dynamically contrasting chorus with just keys, kick drum, and light bass. The full instrumentation lifts the song dynamically and ends with one more saxophone feature. The musicianship is noteworthy and Billy Ray Deiz' vocal performance captures the true spirit of the song.
The lyrics in “Gimme Cracked Corn” is heralding the second coming of Jesus. Deiz has let go of his worldly cares sings about how “my master, is on his way.” However, this time, “He is going to stay!”
“Gimme Cracked Corn” by Billy Ray Deiz is a fantastic song featuring an A-level performance by Deiz and the musicians. Deiz is not only a gifted songwriter, but a phenomenal musician and singer, and this song is a perfect showcase for his talents. With a interesting melody, deep lyrics, and an effective arrangement, listeners will be hooked on every word he sings throughout the entire song.
About Billy Ray Deiz
An entertainer since his teens, Billy Ray helped form one of the stellar bands of the 1960s and 1970s, The Seven Souls. First based in Los Angeles the Souls at one point had the Righteous Brothers Agent, Ike and Tina Turner's record label, and were managed by Larry Shayne who shared an office with Henry Mancini. Ultimately the Souls were signed to the same label as Sly and the Family Stone, and their release, written by band mates Henry Moore and Billy, "I Still Love You" has become a Northern Soul classic in the UK. Bob Welch learned his guitar chops as a member of this band and later joined Fleetwood Mac before launching his own career on Capitol records. His "French Kiss" album went gold.
In 2006 Billy Ray was a finalist in the Chris Austin songwriting competition at Merlefest in North Carolina. He performed his composition, Rather Have Sooner, live, and took 3rd place in the nation in his category. Billy hosted a music feature on KCBS TV in Los Angeles during the 1970s where he profiled stars such as Ray Charles, Neil Diamond, the Temptations and the Supremes. In one segment, Deiz sang a duet with Neil Sedaka, and in another he jammed with Sergio Mendes. He is featured along with Bob Dylan as a credited background singer on the Leonard Cohen album, Death of a Ladies Man, produced by Phil Spector.
Visit Billy Ray Deiz website at http://www.freedomfyters.org/
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