Ray Charles (1930–2004) was a pioneering musician who combined gospel, blues, jazz and country to create the sound of soul music. As a pianist, singer and songwriter, he was behind timeless hits such as "What'd I Say", "Georgia on My Mind", "I Got a Woman", "I Can't Stop Loving You" and "Hit the Road Jack". Known as "The Genius," Charles fundamentally transformed American music and influenced countless artists across all genres.