Ray Charles was an American music legend who pioneered soul music and became one of the most influential artists of the 20th century. Born in 1930 in Georgia and blind from childhood, he overcame tremendous obstacles to master multiple instruments and create timeless hits like "Georgia on My Mind" and "What'd I Say." His innovative blend of blues, gospel, country, and jazz made him an iconic figure in music history and earned him the nickname "The Genius of Soul."
