Deaths on April 6

Ray Charles, American singer-songwriter and conductor (b. 1918)

Charles Raymond Offenberg, better known professionally as Ray Charles, was a remarkable figure in American music. Born on September 13, 1918, and passing away on April 6, 2015, Charles carved out a distinguished career as a musician, singer, songwriter, vocal arranger, and conductor. While his name might occasionally be confused with the legendary rhythm and blues icon, this Ray Charles was a maestro of a different stripe, primarily celebrated for his significant contributions to choral music and his enduring presence in American television and popular culture.

A Maestro of Choral Music: The Ray Charles Singers

At the heart of Ray Charles's legacy was his role as the organizer and leader of the immensely popular vocal group, The Ray Charles Singers. This ensemble became a household name, prominently featured on the records and acclaimed television shows of Perry Como for an impressive 35 years. Their smooth harmonies and versatile sound were a staple of American family entertainment during the mid-20th century, providing a comforting and sophisticated musical backdrop to Como's relaxed style.

Beyond their television appearances, The Ray Charles Singers were prolific recording artists. Between the 1950s and 1960s, they produced a remarkable series of 30 choral record albums. These albums, released on prominent labels such as Essex, MGM, Decca, and Command, showcased their expansive repertoire and arrangement prowess, cementing their reputation as one of the era's leading vocal groups. Their work profoundly influenced the sound of popular choral music, making intricate harmonies accessible and beloved by a wide audience.

Beyond the Choir: A Versatile Musician

A Distinctive Vocalist

While best known for leading his vocal group, Ray Charles also lent his voice to memorable projects. Notably, he sang the iconic theme song for the beloved television series Three's Company, "Come and Knock on Our Door," alongside Julia Rinker Miller. This catchy tune became synonymous with the sitcom's runaway success, demonstrating Charles's ability to connect with audiences through pop culture.

A Gifted Songwriter

Charles's talents extended to songwriting, where he crafted tunes that resonated deeply with the American public, often with an educational or nostalgic flair. He is perhaps most widely recognized for the enduring choral anthem "Fifty Nifty United States." This ingenious song set the names of all the American states to music in alphabetical order, making it an invaluable and memorable educational tool for generations of schoolchildren. It was originally composed for The Perry Como Show, further illustrating his close and creative ties to that program.

Another notable composition from Charles's pen is "Letters, We Get Letters." Also originally written for Como's show, this charming piece became a signature segment, evoking a sense of intimacy and connection between the show and its audience. Its enduring appeal saw it later adapted and famously utilized on the Late Show with David Letterman, where it took on a new, often humorous, life, showcasing the timeless quality of Charles's songwriting.

A Legacy of Musical Expertise

In his later years, Ray Charles continued to be a highly respected figure in the music industry. His profound understanding of American popular music made him an invaluable musical consultant for various television programs. Most notably, he contributed his expertise for 31 years to the prestigious Kennedy Center Honors. His long tenure with such a revered cultural event underscored his acknowledged status as an authority on the rich tapestry of American popular music, a testament to a career marked by dedication, talent, and an unwavering passion for sound.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Who was Ray Charles (born Charles Raymond Offenberg)?

Ray Charles (born Charles Raymond Offenberg) was an American musician, singer, songwriter, vocal arranger, and conductor, primarily known for organizing and leading The Ray Charles Singers. He should not be confused with the legendary rhythm and blues musician of the same name.

What were The Ray Charles Singers famous for?

The Ray Charles Singers were widely known for their 35-year tenure on Perry Como's records and television shows. They also released a series of 30 popular choral record albums in the 1950s and 1960s on labels like Essex, MGM, Decca, and Command, establishing them as a leading vocal group of their time.

Did Ray Charles sing the "Three's Company" theme song?

Yes, as a vocalist, Ray Charles, alongside Julia Rinker Miller, sang the memorable theme song to the television series Three's Company, titled "Come and Knock on Our Door."

What famous songs did Ray Charles write?

Ray Charles is best known as a songwriter for the choral anthem "Fifty Nifty United States," which sets the names of the states to music in alphabetical order. He also wrote "Letters, We Get Letters," a song originally for The Perry Como Show and later used on the Late Show with David Letterman.

What was Ray Charles's role in his later years?

In his later years, Ray Charles continued to serve as a musical consultant for various television programs. Most notably, he was a musical consultant for the prestigious Kennedy Center Honors for 31 years, where he was recognized as a leading authority on American popular music.