Wow! This is the 1st I heard about this - sometimes I miss out on daily news ......
A true talent. Independant & successful from a very early age - he is more influential than most people realise.
His greatest asset, IMHO, was his ability to create unique & original melody - which is probably the greatest thing anyone can offer to the world of music.
At least he had long & fruitful life & we should be thankful for the day his parents noticed the twinkle in each others' eyes.
Salute Ray Charles.

Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication. – Leonardo da Vinci