David Ritz’s “The Last Days of Brother Ray”
It is evident that Ray Charles is an iconic figure in rhythm and blues music. His audacious and spontaneous personality sparked many controversies and scrutiny from critics. Because of his many accomplishments and the many barriers he broke in the music industry, he was considered a god. His music was at first considered "the devil's music" because of its explicit lyrics. Ray was condemned for using and altering church music. His reckless, tell it how it is attitude was mainly to blame for his bad boy reputation.Ironically, he was always in control of his life and career even though he was blind.
Its safe to say that Ray lived a life full of adventure and hard work that certainly paid off in the end. Death exposed itself in his life at the young age of fifteen when his mother passed away. Thus, her death made him realize that he was the only person he can depend on. His independent, determined approach to life were the building blocks to his successful career. Ray’s disability and racial obstacles didn’t hinder him from becoming one of the most infamous artists in history. Death reappeared in his life when he developed liver cancer. His cancer made him recognized how distant to God he had become. In a way, his disease got him closer to his faith. In his last days, i believe he tried to repent for all the harm he caused. Was Ray able to fully repent for all his sins before his death? Did he die peacefully? Ray Charles was truly inspirational and talented beyond belief. He laid the groundwork for many R&B artist in today's music.
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