Charles, Ray
(1930–2004)> SINGER · PIANIST
Charles, Ray Ray Charles Robinson, 23 September 1930; Albany, GA – 10 June 2004; Beverly Hills, CA Singer and pianist. Charles grew up in Florida and went blind at age seven from untreated glaucoma. He absorbed a wide range of music as a child, including blues, jazz, “Race music” (rhythm and blues), country and western, and gospel in church. All played an important role in his development and mature music. Charles began playing piano at three, took lessons in clarinet and piano, and learned to…