Ray Charles was the musician most responsible for developing soul music.He did this by merging '50s R&B with gospel-powered vocals, adding plenty of flavor from contemporary jazz, blues and in the '60s country.

In 1962, he surprised the pop world by turning his attention to country & western music, making a hugely popular album, Modern Sounds in Country and Western Music.

The album remained at the top of the pop charts for nearly three months and brought Charles international fame.

Here is Ray on the Johnny Cash TV show from Sep of 1970 burning up RING OF FIRE

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