Ray Charles
Ray Charles Robinson, known professionally as Ray Charles, was born on September 23, 1930, in Albany, Georgia. He became one of the most iconic and influential musicians in history, often referred to as "The Genius" for his pioneering contributions to soul music. Charles was instrumental in the development of the genre by blending elements of blues, jazz, rhythm and blues, and gospel.
Charles faced significant challenges early in life, losing his sight by the age of seven, possibly due to glaucoma. Despite this, he pursued music passionately, learning to read, write, and arrange music in Braille at the Florida School for the Deaf and Blind. He began his professional career at 15 after the death of his mother, performing in various musical styles.
In the late 1940s, Charles emerged as a blues and jazz pianist influenced by Nat King Cole. He signed with Atlantic Records in 1953, where he developed his unique sound, leading to hits like "I've Got a Woman" and "Hallelujah I Love You So." His song "What'd I Say" became his first million-seller in 1959. Charles continued to break musical boundaries with hits such as "Georgia on My Mind" and "Hit the Road, Jack," and his album "Modern Sounds in Country and Western Music" sold over a million copies.
Throughout his career, Charles toured extensively with his band and the Raelettes, appeared in films, and formed his own record labels, Tangerine and Crossover Records. He received numerous accolades, including 17 Grammy Awards and the Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award. Charles was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1986 and received the Kennedy Center Honors.
Ray Charles passed away on June 10, 2004, in Beverly Hills, California, leaving a profound legacy in the music industry. His innovative blending of musical genres and his distinctive voice continue to influence artists across the world.
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