Ray Charles was an American musician, singer, songwriter, and composer who became known as one of the pioneers of soul music. Born in Georgia in 1930, Charles began playing music at a young age and eventually moved to Seattle to pursue his music career. He became known for his unique blend of R&B, gospel, blues, and jazz influences, and his signature raspy voice.
Charles’ biggest hits include “What’d I Say,” “Georgia on My Mind,” and “Hit the Road Jack,” all of which have become timeless classics of the soul and R&B genres. He won numerous awards for his music, including multiple Grammy Awards and induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.
In addition to his musical contributions, Charles was also a prominent figure in the Civil Rights Movement, using his platform to speak out against racism and inequality. He was a lifelong advocate for the blind, having lost his sight at a young age.
Charles passed away in 2004 at the age of 73, but his legacy continues to inspire and influence musicians today. His music and contributions to the industry have had a significant impact on the development of soul music, and he remains an icon of the genre.
1. Hit the Road Jack
“Hit the Road Jack” is a classic R&B and soul song by Ray Charles, released in 1961. The song’s catchy melody and upbeat rhythm are perfectly complemented by Charles’ dynamic vocals, which alternate between playful and assertive. The lyrics tell the story of a man who has had enough of his partner’s games and lies, and urges her to hit the road and never come back. With its infectious beat and memorable chorus, “Hit the Road Jack” became an instant hit and remains one of Ray Charles’ most iconic and beloved songs. The song’s timeless appeal and popularity have made it a staple of pop culture, regularly featured in movies, TV shows, and commercials.
2. Take These Chains from My Heart
“Take These Chains from My Heart” is a soulful and bluesy track by Ray Charles, released in 1963. The song is a plea for the pain of heartbreak to end, with Charles asking his lover to take the chains off his heart and set him free. Charles’ powerful and emotive vocals, backed by a soulful arrangement of piano, horns, and strings, create a poignant and deeply affecting melody that resonates with listeners. “Take These Chains from My Heart” was a commercial success and cemented Charles’ status as a legend in the world of soul and R&B music.
3. America the Beautiful
“America the Beautiful” is a patriotic song by Ray Charles, released in 1972. The song’s stirring melody, Charles’ powerful vocals, and the use of choir and orchestra create a grand and majestic atmosphere. The lyrics speak to the beauty and diversity of America, and the hope for unity and peace among its people. Charles’ version of the song is considered one of the most iconic and moving interpretations of “America the Beautiful,” and has become a staple at patriotic events and ceremonies. It remains a timeless classic, and a testament to Charles’ enduring legacy as a pioneering figure in soul and R&B music.
4. I’ve Got A Woman
“I’ve Got a Woman” is a pioneering R&B and soul song by Ray Charles, released in 1954. The song’s gospel-inspired melody and bluesy piano riffs set the stage for Charles’ dynamic vocals, which alternate between smooth crooning and passionate shouts. The lyrics speak of a man’s love for his woman, praising her beauty and loyalty. With its fusion of gospel, blues, and R&B sounds, “I’ve Got a Woman” helped pave the way for the soul music genre that would define much of Charles’ later work. The song remains a testament to Charles’ unparalleled talent and enduring legacy in American music.
5. Unchain My Heart
“Unchain My Heart” is a bluesy and soulful track by Ray Charles, released in 1961. The song is a plea for emotional liberation, with Charles asking his lover to unchain his heart and set him free. Charles’ raw and powerful vocals, combined with the driving rhythm and horns, create an infectious and unforgettable melody that is both cathartic and uplifting. “Unchain My Heart” was a commercial and critical success, becoming one of Charles’ signature songs and earning him a spot in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. The song remains a beloved classic in the world of soul and R&B music.
6. Georgia On My Mind
“Georgia On My Mind” is a soulful and emotional song by Ray Charles, released in 1960. The song’s gentle melody, Charles’ emotive vocals, and the use of piano and saxophone create a poignant and nostalgic atmosphere. The lyrics speak to the singer’s love for his home state of Georgia, and the memories and feelings it evokes. “Georgia On My Mind” is a classic of Charles’ catalog, showcasing his ability to create music that is both intimate and powerful. It remains a timeless favorite and is considered one of Charles’ most iconic and beloved songs.
7. Shake A Tail Feather
“Shake a Tail Feather” is a high-energy R&B and soul song by Ray Charles, released in 1963. The song’s infectious beat and catchy chorus are perfectly suited to Charles’ dynamic vocals, which alternate between smooth crooning and exuberant shouting. The lyrics encourage listeners to let loose and dance, promising a good time for all. The song’s memorable hook and fun-loving spirit have made it a staple of pop culture, regularly featured in movies, TV shows, and commercials. With its lively rhythm and irresistible groove, “Shake a Tail Feather” is a testament to Charles’ unique talent and enduring influence on American music.
8. Ain’t But The One
“Ain’t But The One” is a bluesy and soulful track by Ray Charles, released in 1963. The song is a declaration of love, with Charles proclaiming that there is only one woman for him. Charles’ smooth and emotive vocals, backed by a swinging rhythm section and horns, create a lively and upbeat melody that is perfect for dancing. “Ain’t But The One” was a commercial and critical success, showcasing Charles’ versatility as a musician and his mastery of multiple genres, including soul, R&B, and blues. The song remains a beloved deep cut in Charles’ extensive discography.
9. I Can’t Stop Loving You
“I Can’t Stop Loving You” is a powerful and emotional ballad by Ray Charles, released in 1962. The song’s gentle melody, Charles’ soulful vocals, and the use of strings and piano create a poignant and nostalgic atmosphere. The lyrics speak to the singer’s inability to move on from a failed relationship, and the pain and heartbreak that accompanies it. “I Can’t Stop Loving You” is a classic of Charles’ catalog, showcasing his ability to convey intense emotions through his music. It remains a timeless favorite and is considered one of Charles’ most iconic and powerful songs.
10. What’d I Say
“What’d I Say” is a pioneering R&B and soul track by Ray Charles, released in 1959. The song is built around a simple and infectious piano riff, with Charles improvising lyrics and encouraging the audience to participate in the call-and-response chorus. The song’s infectious rhythm and energy, coupled with Charles’ raw and powerful vocals, created an instant classic that had a profound influence on the development of soul and R&B music. “What’d I Say” was a commercial and critical success, and remains one of Charles’ most iconic and beloved tracks, a staple of both his live performances and the wider popular culture.
Edward Tomlin is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
