Musics been around a long time, and theres going to be music long after Ray Charles is dead. I just want to make my mark, leave something musically good behind. If its a big record, thats the frosting on the cake, but musics the main meal. – Ray Charles

My music had roots which Id dug up from my own childhood, musical roots buried in the darkest soil. – Ray Charles

What makes my approach special is that I do different things. I do jazz, blues, country music and so forth. I do them all, like a good utility man. – Ray Charles