Ray Charles Robinson Sr. (September 23, 1930 – June 10, 2004) was an American singer, songwriter and pianist. He is regarded as one of the most iconic and influential musicians in history. Charles was blinded during childhood, possibly due to glaucoma. He was taught to play Bach, Mozart and Beethoven at his school which he developed his musical talent at. He is one of the main founders of soul music, and he pioneered it. Influenced by Nat King Cole, Louis Jordan, Charles Brown.