Raymond Charles Robinson (September 23; 1930 June 10; 2004); known by his stage name Ray Charles; was an American pianist and singer who shaped the sound of rhythm and blues. He brought a soulful sound to country music; pop standards; and a rendition of "America the Beautiful" that Ed Bradley of 60 Minutes called the "definitive version of the song; an American anthem a classic; just as the man who sung it." Frank Sinatra called him "the only true genius in the business" and in 2004; Rolling Stone Magazine ranked Charles #10 on their list of the 100 Greatest Artists of All Time.Raymond Charles Robinson was born in Albany; Georgia on September 23; 1930(1930-09-23).