The well known singer, Ray Charles, was born on September 23rd, 1930. Ray Charles had a tough upbringing, growing up without a father and in an economically disadvantaged environment. While in his thirties, Charles also had issues with the law. Ray Charles was arrested in 1965 on heroin charges, but managed to turn things around in a rehabilitation clinic. Charles first earned recognition with his hit single “Crying Time”, reaching #6 on the charts.

Charles continued his success into the 1960s and 70s, doing a number of very successful covers during that time. Charles performed prolifically during the 1980s as well, and also appeared on TV and in film. His appearance in The Blues Brothers gave him an appeal among younger viewers and listeners. Interestingly, Ray Charles was also very popular overseas, particularly in Japan. Ray Charles’ cover of a Japanese pop song was very popular in that country, topping the charts.

Ray appeared a number of times during the twenty first century, including an appearance alongside Van Morrison in June of 2003. The Ray Charles music studio was made a historic landmark on April 30th, 2004. Ray Charles passed away soon thereafter, on June 10th, 2004. Ray Charles died of liver cancer while at his home in the Beverly Hills.

Ray Charles’ incredible music career was commemorated with the film Ray, which was made with his blessing and starred Jamie Foxx as Ray Charles. Ray Charles is survived by 12 children.