Ray Charles’s whole life was about music. He gave more than 10,000 concerts. He recorded more than 60 albums.
His contribution to American music was beyond compare. But that was just the beginning. Charles used his position and fame to help causes that were important to him. He also appeared in films like Blues Brothers. Plus, he sang in advertisements for a soft drink company. And his work did not go unnoticed. Presidents gave Charles official recognition. So did kings and queens. In addition, modern artists have sampled his music, and other artists have awarded him repeatedly.