To commemorate the 80th anniversary of Ray Charles birth, BIO presents the two-hour special “Ray Charles’ America,” an in-depth, uncensored look at a life full of turmoil and triumph, and a music career like no other.
Produced in cooperation with Charles’ Estate, the film will include more than 25 of his songs, and unprecedented access to never-before-seen photos and video. Interviews will include Willie Nelson, Bill Cosby, Quincy Jones, Jesse Jackson, Will.i.am, Slash and Stevie Wonder, among many others.
Despite growing up dirt-poor, blind and ultimately, orphaned, Ray Charles went on to achieve more than almost any musician in American history. He refused to acknowledge the racial boundaries placed on popular music and melded jazz with country, blues with orchestral music, and gospel with pop.
“Ray Charles’ America” is produced by Tremolo Productions. Tony Gumina and Valerie Ervin serve as executive producers. Robert Sharenow and Andy Berg are executive producers for BIO.
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