Ray Charles 1952 -

Jerry Wexler later said that during those sessions, he saw Ray’s fingers move across the keys like a blind prophet reading Braille fire. The song didn’t break the top ten, but it broke a psychological barrier. Ray realized he could scream, grunt, and moan on tape and no one would stop him.

In the years that followed, Ray Charles became an American institution. He released countless albums, won numerous awards, and performed with some of the biggest names in music. He was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1986 and received a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award in 1987. ray charles 1952

In 1952, Ray's big break came when he landed a recording contract with the fledgling Tampa, Florida-based label, Swingtime Records. The label's owner, Joe Banashak, was impressed by Ray's talent and saw an opportunity to capitalize on the growing popularity of R&B music. Jerry Wexler later said that during those sessions,

While 1952 didn't produce his biggest hits, it produced the man who would create them. By the end of the year, Ray Charles was no longer just a talented blind pianist trying to sound like someone else. He had the backing of a major independent label, a growing reputation on the touring circuit, and a burgeoning sense of musical identity. In the years that followed, Ray Charles became