ONE OF the great icons of music has been laid to rest, but his rich legacy in music will undoubtedly live on. Born Ray Charles Robinson in Albany, Georgia, on September 23, 1930, the African-American musician became a musical icon for many, with his legendary sunglas-ses, gravelly voice and electric personality on stage. Ray Charles went blind at seven, but this would by no means prohibit him from pursuing his love for music. At 15 he was orphaned, but by then he had exhibited his musical talents as a gifted pianist and singer. Not one to be classified or categorised, Charles went about his musical career crossing musical lines with lyrics and sounds, creating some of music's more notable tunes. During his musical career, which spanned a half-century, Charles won 12 Grammy awards, including best rhythm and blues recording three years in a row, with such notable songs as Hit the Road Jack, I Can't Stop Loving You and Busted. The musical legend not only inspired and affected the music of his time but subsequent generations, as younger artistes have also expressed their love and appreciation for the deep and powerful music that Charles created. Wayne Wonder is one of the younger generation of singers who has enjoyed and appreciated the work of Charles. "I liked to listen to his songs and how he arranged and presented his music. Yuh can hear his struggles through his songs and di way dem man deh think powerful it inspires you," he said. Charles' funeral was held last Thursday at Los Angeles' FAME church, a day after his coffin was placed on display at the Los Angeles Convention Centre so that thousands of fans could pay their personal respects. His casket was displayed for eight hours last Thursday, before it was taken to the First African Methodist Episcopal Church for his funeral. Producer Quincy Jones, Charles's long time friend and collaborator, former US President Bill Clinton and comedian Bill Cosby were among those who delivered tributes at the funeral ceremony. Charles died on June 10 at age 73 from liver complications, after a year of health problems. Charles' health began declining about a year ago when he began suffering severe hip pain. In August he cancelled part of his US concert tour for the first time in 53 years and underwent hip replacement surgery in December. SOURCE: JAMAICA-GLEANER.COM