ALBANY, Ga. (WALB) – Brimming with a wealth of culture and history, Albany houses a significant piece of its heritage at the Ray Charles Plaza.
Ray Charles, a native of Albany, left an indelible mark on the city through his enduring legacy and the iconic state song, “Georgia on My Mind.”
Born in Albany as Ray Charles Robinson, Sr., the legendary artist would later rise to global stardom, earning prestigious accolades and widespread acclaim for timeless hits such as “Yesterday,” “Crying Time,” and the beloved state anthem, “Georgia On My Mind.”
From his humble beginnings in Albany, Ray Charles’s musical influence transcended borders, touching lives worldwide. One Albany native, Willie Moody, credits a pivotal moment at the age of 8—performing for Ray Charles—as the spark that ignited his lifelong love for music.
Reflecting on the experience, Moody shared, “When Representative White and my former piano teacher Dr. Bacon invited me to perform that evening, I was overjoyed. After the show, I had the chance to sit on his lap. The moment was captured by JET magazine. Ray Charles encouraged me to pursue music, believing in my talent and limitless potential.”
Ray Charles’s impact on Albany extended far beyond inspiring budding musicians. Since 2001, the Ray Charles Foundation has contributed over \(3 million to Albany State University and nearly \)50 million towards scholarships, programs, and medical initiatives.
Valerie Ervin, President of the Ray Charles Foundation, emphasized Charles’s foresight and generosity, stating, “Though visually impaired, Mr. Charles possessed remarkable vision. Recognizing the needs of youth, particularly in education and hearing impairment, he seeded his foundation with $1 million from his own earnings. Anonymously funding cochlear implants for the hearing impaired was one of his initial endeavors.”
The Ray Charles Foundation distinguishes itself by funding charitable endeavors solely through Charles’s intellectual property and musical legacy, eschewing external contributions. Ervin expressed confidence in the enduring impact of Charles’s philanthropy, believing his musical heritage will continue to inspire future generations.
“He often asserted that music serves as a universal language, transcending barriers of color and creed. Music evokes emotion—it knows no bounds. I trust that his name will endure through his music, sustaining our foundation’s mission to support programs nationwide,” Ervin remarked.
Ray Charles’s musical influence has stood the test of time, originating right here in Albany, the “Good Life City.”
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