Ray Charles

Early Life and Overcoming Adversity

Ray Charles was an American singer who showed the world that you can still achieve greatness despite your physical limitations. He was a pioneer in the genre of soul music and earned the nickname “the Father of Soul”.

Charles was born in Albany, Georgia, and grew up in Greenville, Florida. He became blind at a very young age due to his glaucoma. His childhood was marked by trauma as he witnessed the drowning of his younger brother. To make matters worse, his mother passed away when he was 15 years old making him an orphan. However, that didn’t deter him as he learned to play piano and organ at the school for the deaf and blind before moving to Seattle in 1948 where he formed his first band called “the McSon Trio”. He changed his stage name to Ray Charles to avoid confusion with boxer Sugar Ray Robinson.

Breakthrough with Atlantic Records

After signing with Atlantic Records in 1952, his career took off as he released several hit songs. His signature musical style was characterized by blending jazz, blues, R&B, and gospel. He further developed his style as he continued to produce more hits in the 1950s like “I’ve Got A Woman” and “What’d I Say”. Charles introduced the Raelettes as his female backup singers in 1957 which became a key part of his distinctive sound. He was also known for his unique interpretations of popular songs.

Transition to ABC-Paramount

After spending several years with Atlantic Records, he left to join ABC-Paramount in 1959 where he gained more artistic freedom to produce his own records as well as expand his musical style.

Musical Influences and Iconic Hits

The call-and-response style he heard in church growing up influenced his recordings, evident in hits like “Hit the Road Jack” and “What’d I Say”.

Struggles and Triumphs

Despite a thriving musical career, Charles battled heroin addiction for many years and was even arrested multiple times for drug possession. However, he reformed himself, overcame his addiction, and became an advocate for drug rehabilitation. Despite his personal demons, Charles earned numerous awards and accolades for his contribution to the music industry such as 17 Grammy Awards, induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, National Medal of Arts, and many more.

Legacy and Passing

Charles continued to wow fans with his music until his death in 2004 from liver disease.