BIOGRAPHY
Ray Charles (1930-2004) was an American singer and musician who was a pioneer of the soul and rhythm and blues genres. He is often cited as one of the greatest musicians of all time. Charles was born in Albany, Georgia, and began playing piano at the age of seven. He quickly developed a distinctive style that mixed gospel, blues, and jazz. In the 1950s, he achieved success with hits such as "I've Got a Woman" and "What'd I Say." In the 1960s, he achieved success with songs like "Hit the Road Jack" and "Georgia on My Mind." He continued to perform and record until his death in 2004.