Ray Charles & The Raelettes & The Ray Charles Orchestra live at the North Sea Jazz Festival 1997Ray Charles Robinson Sr. (September 23, 1930 – June 10, 2004) was an American singer, songwriter and pianist. He is regarded as one of the most iconic and influential singers in history, and was often referred to by contemporaries as "The Genius". Among friends and fellow musicians he preferred being called "Brother Ray". Charles was blinded during childhood, possibly due to glaucoma. Welcome to the official North Sea Jazz Archive! On our channel you will find live performances and interviews of Jazz Legends like Lionel Hampton, Ray Charles, Maceo Parker, Herbie Hancock and many more, who have performed at the legendary North Sea Jazz Festival in the Netherlands