Inspirational Quotes by Ray Charles (American Singer)

Ray Charles (1930–2004,) born Ray Charles Robinson, was an American pianist and singer. Often called the “Father of Soul,” he drew from rhythm-and-blues, jazz, and gospel music to create a new kind of African-American music known as soul. He is remembered for such beloved songs as “What’d I Say” (1959) and “Georgia on My Mind” (1960.)

Born in Albany, Georgia, Charles contracted glaucoma at the age of five, which soon left him completely blind. He learned to read Braille, studied music composition, and mastered many instruments (trumpet, alto saxophone, clarinet, organ, and piano.) After relocating to Seattle, he played in several jazz trios before recording and gaining fame.

Charles’s musical versatility and his achievements celebrate him as one of the most important and influential American musicians of all time. He died in the same year that the award-winning biopic Ray (2004) was released.

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