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The 25 best musicians of the Rock & Roll era

Who took the top slots for the best artists in the Rock-and-Roll era? Check out the full list.

15. Ray Charles

Franco Greco/Keystone/AP

  • By Molly Driscoll Staff Writer

Ray Charles was a singer and piano player, among other instruments, and is cited as a giant in the soul music genre for his integration of other styles into his soul music such as the blues. He rose to fame in the 1950s with hits like "Baby, Let Me Hold Your Hand" and is known today for songs including "I Got A Woman," "Georgia on My Mind" and, "Hit the Road Jack."

"Charles displayed his genius by combining elements of gospel and blues into a fervid, exuberant style that would come to be known as soul music," the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame wrote of the artist. "While recording for Atlantic Records during the Fifties, the innovative singer, pianist and bandleader broke down the barriers between sacred and secular music. The gospel sound he’d heard growing up in the church found its way into the music he made as an adult. In his own words, he fostered 'a crossover between gospel music and the rhythm patterns of the blues.' But he didn’t stop there: over the decades, elements of country & western and big-band jazz infused his music as well. He is as complete and well-rounded a musical talent as this century has produced."

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Mark Sappenfield
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