Since the early 1950s, Charles has been referred to as “The Genius,” but he first made his name as a jazz and blues pianist and vocalist, channelling the sounds of his musical heroes Nat “King” Cole and pianist Charles Brown.
Charles, however, developed a career that transcended genre throughout the course of his more than 50 years in show business, bringing his soulful voice, piano skills, and songwriting ability to the pop, country, and R&B charts.
What was the cause of Ray Charles death?
American musical icon Ray Charles died on 10th June 2004 of complications from liver disease at his home in Beverly Hills, Calif. He was 73.
Keep reading to learn more about him.
The first of Charles’ three No. 1 singles during his career on the Billboard Hot 100 was the 1960 hit “Georgia On My Mind.” He initially reached the top of the Billboard 200 charts with his 1962 album Modern Sounds In Country And Western Music.
Charles had a number of singles that peaked at No. 40 on several Billboard singles charts, including 44 on the US R&B singles list, 11 on the Hot 100 singles chart, and 2 on the Hot Country songs charts.
