Ray Charles dead at 73

[Laura]

A great loss to the music world today - Ray Charles has passed away at the age of 73. No cause of death has been given.

I always loved Ray's versions of "America the Beautiful," "Hit the Road, Jack," "Nighttime is the Right Time" (remember this from the Cosby Show?), and "Georgia On My Mind." He will be very much missed.

Laura

[John]

A talented man that is for sure. Goodbye Ray Charles.

[Laura]

Hi,

Ray Charles was like an American institution. He was seemingly everywhere. It'll be hard to imagine life without him.

After I posted the blurb about his passing, I learned that the cause of death was acute liver disease. Ray Charles had been ill for some time, but he never stopped working, even when he didn't feel his best.

The official site for Ray Charles was updated yesterday. Go to www.raycharles.com and click on America the Beautiful to hear his wonderful recording of this song over a 9/11 montage. Very touching!

Laura