Ray Charles

Ray Charles

Ray Charles, born Ray Charles Robinson (September 23, 1930 - June 10, 2004), was a modern American singer and pianist influential in the genres of rhythm and blues, soul, pop, blues, country, jazz, and gospel. Blind since the age of seven (he began to go blind from the age of six), it is suspected he suffered from an early attack of glaucoma. He is known for hits such as "What'd I Say?", "I Can't Stop Loving You", "Hit the Road Jack", "Georgia on My Mind", "Busted", "You Are My Sunshine", "I Got A Woman", as well as his version of "America the Beautiful". He was the winner of twenty Grammy Awards, and in 1986 was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and the Jazz Hall of Fame. In 2007, Ray Charles was inducted into the Hit Parade Hall of Fame. He performed a memorable rendition of America the Beautiful at the opening of a game of the 2001 World Series, shortly after 9-11.

Although blind, Ray Charles was an excellent chess player who defeated the devoted chess player Willie Nelson in back-to-back games.

He was actively involved in the 2004 movie Ray, a film about his early life and career. The movie won two Oscars, including one for Best Actor for Jamie Foxx's portrayal of Ray.

After Charles died, President George W. Bush released a statement, saying of Charles that "his music and his optimism touched the lives and hearts of millions and spanned generations, cultures, races, and backgrounds. People from all walks of life would come together and tap their feet as one when Ray Charles played."