The Charts!

The Charts!

Thursday, February 18, 2010

Another passing...all too soon

Sad news again. Allan Collay ( Callais) our bluesy vocalist and keyboardist passed away today in his sleep, of complicatons from kidney disease.
He was comfortable and had his daughter at his side in the hospital.

Allan was a soulful and talented singer who emulated his idol Ray Charles in a big way. He was lucky to meet Ray at an Atlanta concert in California, an event which no doubt was a big one for Allan.
Discovered by Larry McBride Atlanta's illustrious manager, Collay was an entertainer at many local night spots in and around ATL before joining the band. He recorded st an early age, and got radio play on his first single.

His unusual vocal and keyboard styling helped contribute to the diversity of Atlanta's sound, and though he did not sing too many leads on the recordings, his "You are the Wine" and concert version of "Turn on Your Love Light" were always memorable and different.
We toast Mr. Collay a true original.

1 comment:

Anonymous said...

I married Allen in Nashville, during fanfare, 1984, divorced in atlanta,1995.....it was quite a ride being his sixth wife...he was quite a talent. Rip....I will raise a glass for you today. EC