[Dixielandjazz] Re: Ray Charles, a question !

[Bill Haesler]

Dear Dave,
An interesting question, which I hope that will be answered fully.
The authoritative 'Blues Who's Who' (Sheldon Harris. Da Capo 1981) has 5
pages on Ray Charles (plus a full page photograph) and says "Born Sept 23
1930....Ray Charles Robinson (later dropping last name to avoid confusion
with boxing champion of same name)....."
The rest of the biog fits the 1930 birth date neatly and chronologically.
The entry also adds. "Not to be confused with Ray Charles (born Sept 13
1918), composer/arranger/choir director/conductor of The Ray Charles
Singers."
Ray Charles [Robinson] spent most of his early musical life in Florida prior
to moving to Seattle WA (1948-49) and Los Angeles CA (1948-48, 1950-51).
He played clarinet, organ, piano, saxophone, trumpet and was a composer.
Very kind regards,
Bill.