Ray Charles, born September 23, 1930, in Albany, Georgia, was a pioneering American musician whose innovative fusion of gospel, blues, and jazz laid the foundation for soul music. Despite losing his sight by age seven, Charles's prodigious talent propelled him to international acclaim. His distinctive voice and emotive performances produced timeless hits like "Georgia on My Mind" and "Hit the Road Jack." Throughout his career, Charles garnered 17 Grammy Awards, including a Lifetime Achievement Award in 1987, and was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1986. His enduring legacy continues to inspire generations of artists and music enthusiasts worldwide. ([britannica.com](https://www.britannica.com/biography/Ray-Charles?utm_source=openai))