Ray Stevens – I Never Made a Record I Didn't Like

Catalog #: MCA-42172  |  Side A Matrix: MCA42172-A  |  Label: MCA Records

About the Artist

Ray Stevens is one of country and pop music's most enduring and versatile entertainers. Born Harold Ray Ragsdale in Clarkdale, Georgia in 1939, Stevens built a career spanning six decades as a singer, songwriter, musician, and comedian. He is best known for his novelty hits — including the Grammy-winning Everything Is Beautiful (1970) and the irresistible The Streak (1974) — but his talent runs far deeper than the laughs. A classically trained musician and gifted arranger, Stevens has always walked the line between genuine artistry and pure, unabashed fun. He was inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame in 2019, cementing his legacy as a true American original.

About the Album

Released in 1983 on MCA Records, I Never Made a Record I Didn't Like is a self-aware, tongue-in-cheek title that perfectly captures Stevens' playful relationship with his own catalogue. The album leans into his comedic strengths while showcasing the polished production style of early-'80s Nashville. It's a snapshot of Stevens at his most confident — a seasoned performer who had nothing left to prove and everything left to enjoy. The record features a mix of original novelty tracks and Stevens' signature brand of musical storytelling, delivered with the timing of a stand-up comedian and the chops of a studio pro.

Highlights

• Features Stevens' trademark blend of comedy, country, and pop — accessible to fans of all genres
• Produced during a creatively prolific period for Stevens on MCA, one of Nashville's premier labels of the era
• Includes witty, character-driven tracks that hold up as both musical performances and comedic set pieces
• A great conversation piece and collectible for fans of novelty records, '80s country, or classic Americana

Record Condition

This copy has been carefully cleaned with a Spin-Clean record washer and stored in a new inner plastic sleeve. The vinyl shows minor surface scuffs consistent with age, but played flawlessly on a quality turntable with no skips. Minor pops and crackles were noted during playback — typical for a record of this vintage. Overall, a very solid player.

Jacket Condition

The jacket is in Very Good (VG) condition. The album has been opened, but the original shrink wrap remains on the jacket, as shown in the photos — a nice touch for collectors who appreciate original packaging.

Grading Summary

• Record: VG (plays well; minor surface marks, light pops/crackles)
• Jacket: VG+ (opened; original shrink wrap intact)

All items are shipped securely in protective mailers. Combined shipping available — please inquire before purchasing.