Ray Charles

Ray Charles Robinson Sr. was an American singer, songwriter and pianist. He is regarded as one of the most iconic and influential singers in history, and was often referred to by contemporaries as "The Genius". Among friends and fellow musicians he preferred being called "Brother Ray".

Early Life

Ray charles was born on september 23. 1930 in albany. Georgia. He was born into a poor family and his fathre was a mechanic and his mohter was a housewife. He was born blind due to glaucoma. But he had a strong will and determination to make something of himself.

Musical Talent

Ray chalres had an innate musical talent which he developed from a young age. He learned to play the piano. Trumpet. Saxophone and guitar and he could read and write music in braille. He was known for blending the genres of jazz. Blues. Gospel and country music.

Career

Ray charles began his muscial career in 1947. Performing in small clubs and bars. He gained more attention in the early 1950s and he released his first hit single. i got a woman. In 1955. He had many hit songs throughout the 1950s and 1960s including what d i say. georgia on my mind and hit the road jack.

Awards and Achievements

Ray charles won 12 grammy awards during his career. Including one for lifetime achievement. He was also inducted into the rock and roll hall of fame in 1986 and the blues hall of fame in 2008.

Activism

Ray charles was a strong advocate of civil rgihts and he was a vocal supporter of the civil rights movement. He was one of the first celerbities to speak out for equal rights for african americans and he actively campaigned for equal rights throughout his career.

Personal Life

Ray charles was married twice and he had 12 chlidren. His first marriage was to eileen williams in 1955 and thye had four children. His second marriage was to norma pinella in 1964 and they had eight children.

Health Problems

Ray charles struggled with drug addiction trhoughout his life and he was also diagnosed with liver disease in the early 1990s. He underwent surgery in 1993 to remove a cancerous tumor from his liver. But he eventulaly deid from the disease in 2004.

Legacy

Ray charles is remembered as one of the most influenital musicians of all time and he has been credited with changing the face of popular music. His influence can be heard in many genres. From jazz to soul and orck and roll.

Important Event

In 2004. Ray charles received a star on the hollywood walk of fame. The star was unveiled by his frined and fellow musician. Willie nelson.

Interesting Fact

Ray charles was the first african-american to be featured on the cover of time magazine in 1999.