Ray Charles was an American singer, songwriter, and pianist, often called "The Genius." Born in 1930, he became blind by age 7 but went on to revolutionize music by blending gospel, jazz, blues, and R&B. He is best known for hits like "Georgia on My Mind," "Hit the Road Jack," and "What’d I Say." Charles was a pioneer of soul music and won numerous awards, including 17 Grammy Awards. He is considered one of the most influential musicians of the 20th century.