Ray Charles – Biography and History
Ray Charles, born Ray Charles Robinson on September 23, 1930, in Albany, Georgia, was a pioneer in the world of music. His extraordinary talent, blending elements of blues, gospel, jazz, and rhythm and blues, earned him the title “The Genius” and left an indelible mark on the landscape of American music.
Raised in a poor, segregated community in the South, Ray Charles faced adversity from an early age. Tragedy struck when he was just seven years old, losing his younger brother and witnessing his own eyesight deteriorate due to glaucoma. By the age of seven, he was completely blind. Despite these challenges, his mother encouraged his musical talent, and he learned to play the piano at a young age, finding solace and expression in music.