Ray Charles Plaza is a great spot to relax in the city of Albany, Georgia. Visit this monument in a lovely green area along the river and get to know a bit more about the “Genius” as people used to call Ray Charles.
In the year 1930 a baby boy named Ray Charles Robinson was born in Albany. These were difficult times, as it was the very beginning of the Great Depression. Ray was not born blind, but lost his sight entirely by the age of 7. When he was 15 years old he became an orphan, but despite all the difficulties in his life he still managed to make his way in the world. His driving force was music. As he once said “I was born with music inside me. That’s the only explanation I know.” Discover his passion and his music in Ray Charles Plaza. See the square lit up at night and listen to some of the songs of this amazing singer-songwriter, musician and composer.
While you are in Albany notice how proud its people are of music legend Ray Charles. He was admired all over the world. During his life he earned many awards, including his eight honorary doctoral degrees, 17 Grammys and the Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award. Rolling Stone magazine ranked him number two on their list of the “100 Greatest Singers of All Time.”
This well-known square has many interesting features to discover. Take photos of the plaza’s main feature, a life-size bronze sculpture of Ray sitting at his piano. Rest in the picturesque seating area shaped like piano keys and try to name the musical note shapes that you’ll find on the ground. Notice the plaque placed in front of the statue that includes an inscription in Braille for the blind. Enjoy the beautiful views of the Flint River in the background.
Visit the famous Ray Charles Plaza in Albany and enjoy a day filled with music, lovely views and musical inspiration.
