Ray Charles

Ray Charles Robinson (September 23, 1930 – September 17, 2004), was an American musician known by his shortened stage name Ray Charles. He pioneered the genre of soul music during the 1950s by fusing rhythm & blues, gospel and blues. His records include controlled slurs, shouts and shrieks. Rolling Stone ranked Charles No. 10 on their list of "100 Greatest Artists of All Time" in 2004. His music pervades American culture.

Source: thegirlcantdance