Ray Charles : the birth of soul
(Book - Adult Hardback)

Includes index.

Includes bibliographical references (p. 307-312).

Discography: (p. 313-332).

Mike Evans traces Ray Charles' amazing story from the abject disadvantage of being orphaned, black and blind in the South of the 1930s to the height of international success. First-hand interviews and quotes are featured from those who worked with, or were simply influenced by him.,For a generation of musicians and fans, the late Ray Charles provided the catalyst that fused the previously largely exclusive genres of jazz, blues and gospel music. In an era when jazz and pop music were seemingly poles apart, the impact of Charles' music was truly revolutionary in that it brought together these strands and fans for the first time. Traces Ray Charles' amazing story from the abject disadvantage of being orphaned, black and blind in the South of the 1930s to the height of international success. Features exclusive first hand interviews and quotes from those who worked with, or were simply influenced by, the man who more than anyone else could truly be called the founding father of soul music.