I'm sure some in these fora have heard stories about Ray Charles, so I thought we could honor his memory in here by sharing a few, found or otherwise heard.
I heard a few stories on the radio about him which I had not known already.
- He was a heroine addict for 20 years, and he kicked the habbit. He even joked about it in a few of his songs. "Don't need no Doctor". I think that shows the great spirit the man had.
- Another was during his earlier days on tour. He and the band thought they were finished with their set, but were told by the club manager, "You guys have 10 more minutes left." Ray, then went to his band and said, "Just follow me boys." and began the A-O song by ad-libbing... the next day he recorded it and it was an instant hit.
- But, I think the most heart-warming story is that of his life. The shortened version of which I only heard and would love to know more. He was quite poor, and said he was the bottom rung of the ladder. At a young age he saw his brother drown in their bathtub. The same bath tub his mom did the laundry in. He was tutored in the piano by a friend at a young age of 3, which prepared him for when he went to a state run school and learnt the piano. By age 15 when he graduated his parents had both died. He toured and made music, which he carried on for the rest of his life. Ray played a number of instruments, including but not limited to the Alto Sax, Piano, Organ, Harmonica, and Trumptet.
He will be remembered for his charisma, great talent, and the strong effect he had on many lives. He will not be forgotten, just as the many greats have not been forgotten through time. He will always serve to inspire musicians, and those seeking to become musicians.
This is my smalll tribute to Ray Charles, I hope to see others participate, so we may learn more about this man.
Top