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On June 10, 2004, Ray Charles, often called the “Father of Soul,” died from complications from liver disease in his Beverly Hills home. Charles was born on September 23, 1930, in Albany, Georgia. He lost his eyesight because of glaucoma when he was 7 years old. Throughout his career, the singer and pianist recorded hit songs like “I Got a Woman,” “Georgia On My Mind” and “Ruby.” Charles was actively involved in the 2004 Oscar-winning biopic about his life, “Ray,” starring Jamie Foxx. He also won 17 Grammys—five of which were awarded posthumously.— MB