The jazz, blues and soul legend Ray Charles is one of the world's most renowned musicians and was presented to the Bremen public for the first time at the International Trumpet Festival Bremen. It was the only concert in Germany during his European tour before he opened the Olympic Games in Atlanta/USA.

When hypothermia began to dominate jazz in the fifties, blind Ray Charles' expressive singing suddenly triggered a reorientation towards the "roots" and with it the soul wave. He was later called president of the "Soul Society".

Ray Charles, who as a pianist brought influences from Charles Brown, Nat King Cole and Bud Powell to a common denominator with an overtone-strong touch to his unmistakably own blues and gospel music. He let his warm, rough voice whisper, grind, scream or falsetto with intuitive certainty. Ray Charles also included breathing in his almost unlimited catalogue of means of expression. The famous Quincy Jones once said, "He brings life to every note, is an excellent technician and has an incredible ability to hear things."

His most famous interpretations, which have become hits and classics, include "Hallelujah, I love her so", "Georgia On My Mind", "Hit The Road Jack" and "I Can't Stop Loving You". Ray Charles was and is without doubt a world star and has played with all the great musicians of the jazz, blues and soul scene. Countless recordings and appearances at all major festivals prove his exceptional position.