Ray Charles was an influential American singer, songwriter, and pianist, born on September 23, 1930, in Albany, Georgia. He is often referred to as the "Genius of Soul" for his unique blend of R&B, gospel, and blues music. Despite losing his sight at a young age, Charles developed a remarkable musical talent and became a pioneer in the music industry. Throughout his career, Ray Charles released numerous hit songs, including "Hit the Road Jack" and "Georgia on My Mind." He won multiple Grammy Awards and was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1986. His contributions to music have left a lasting legacy, influencing countless artists across various genres.