- Ray Charles was a musical icon
- The legendary singer died in 2004
- HERE is what led to his passing
At the time, Charles had established himself as a legend with hits like "Hit the Road Jack," "Unchain My Heart," "One Mint Julep" and countless others. By the early 1960s, he formed a big band and had a top ten instrumental hit with "One Mint Julep." He followed this with the 1962 release of 'GENIUS + SOUL = JAZZ', and a number of very popular country albums.
Ray falls ill
But all good things must come to an end... Charles passed away after a battle with liver failure at his home in Los Angeles. At the time, he was still active in music and was planning to go on tour. But the complications he endured from hip surgery he had in 2003 made it difficult to perform.
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A terrible loss
"Yes, I’m going to keep touring, keep performing, it’s in my blood," Charles told the 'New York Times' in 2004 months before his death... Watch the video above to learn more!
