This is FRESH AIR. In 1962, Ray Charles released two albums that became surprise hits - "Modern Sounds In Country And Western Music," Volumes 1 and 2. At the time, few popular black artists had ...

Dean Kay co-wrote “That’s Life.” According to his website, he tried to pitch the tune to Ray Charles at first. Instead, an unknown singer named Marion Montgomery recorded it first. Then, O.C. Smith ...

This week, the great Ray Charles was voted into the Country Music Hall of Fame. Of course, he's best known for recording hit soul and R&B songs. But growing up, he was a big fan of country music.

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And what you're really there to do is create art. On the decision to use Charles' own singing in the soundtrack rather than let him try to simulate Charles' voice. (Those who know Foxx's own singing ...

Fifty-seven years ago, Charles released two albums that helped extend the reach of country music. Though initially perceived as a novelty, a... 'Modern Sounds' Re-Release Revives Ray Charles' 1962 ...