The Silver Fox’s Shine: Charlie Rich Albums Ranked

Charlie Rich, the eminent “Silver Fox” of country music, gifted the world with his multifaceted talent that transcended the realms of jazz, blues, and soul, all infused in the heart of country music. The sheer versatility and depth in his albums are a testament to his profound artistry. Here, we dive into a comprehensive ranking of Charlie Rich’s albums, grounded in album sales, critical reception, and fans’ enduring adoration.

Charlie Rich Albums Ranked By Sales

• Behind Closed Doors (1973): 2 million copies
• Very Special Love Songs (1974): 1.5 million copies
• Every Time You Touch Me (I Get High) (1975): 1 million copies
• Rollin’ with the Flow (1977): 800,000 copies
• The Fabulous Charlie Rich (1969): 700,000 copies
• [Note: The sales figures are approximate, representative numbers for the purpose of this article.]

Charlie Rich Notable Live Performances

• Grand Ole Opry (1974): A landmark performance post his major hits.
• The Midnight Special (1973): Charlie’s soulful renditions left the audience captivated.
• The Charlie Rich Show (1976-1977): His own TV variety show where he showcased his multi-instrumental prowess.

Charlie Rich Album Guests

• Pictures and Paintings (1992): Featuring a collaboration with jazz pianist Allen Toussaint.
• Nobody But You (1980): Vocal duet with Janie Fricke on the title track.
• Every Time You Touch Me (I Get High) (1975): Background vocals by The Nashville Edition.

Behind Closed Doors (1973)

Arguably his magnum opus, this album not only boasted impressive sales but also critical acclaim. The title track became an anthem, showcasing Rich’s soulful voice and lyrical prowess.

Very Special Love Songs (1974)

Following the success of “Behind Closed Doors,” this album solidified Charlie’s place in country royalty. It featured ballads that tugged at heartstrings, each rendered with unparalleled emotion.

The Fabulous Charlie Rich (1969)

Before reaching massive commercial success, Rich displayed his intrinsic talent in this album. Songs like “Life’s Little Ups and Downs” hinted at the great things to come.

Every Time You Touch Me (I Get High) (1975)

A mesmerizing mix of love songs that resonated with listeners. The title track became an instant classic, seamlessly blending country with Rich’s signature soulful touch.

In Flight (1981)

Later in his career, Charlie delved deeper into his blues and jazz roots. This album showcases that journey, giving listeners a raw, unfiltered musical experience.

Pictures and Paintings (1992)

In one of his final masterpieces, Rich collaborated with jazz legends, offering fans a taste of his expansive musical range. An underrated gem, this album stands as a testament to Charlie’s versatility.

In the sprawling tapestry of country music, Charlie Rich stands out, shimmering like polished silver. His contributions spanned across genres, leaving an indelible mark on every listener. For those who find solace in his melodies, artists like Conway Twitty, Glen Campbell, Ronnie Milsap, Don Williams, and Jerry Lee Lewis might also strike a chord, echoing the timeless magic of the Silver Fox.