Ray Charles Still Popular After Death

11/26/2004 7:59 AM, AP


Less than six months after his death, Ray Charles may be more popular than ever with a movie about his life and a posthumously released album.

Now he is being recognized with an exhibit at the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Museum in Cleveland. "The Genius of Ray Charles" exhibit opened Nov. 19, and a reception to celebrate the opening is planned for Wednesday.

Charles memorabilia is on loan from his Los Angeles studio/headquarters and includes electronic keyboards, a saxophone, sunglasses, and a collection of awards. The exhibit, expected to remain through Labor Day, also includes video recordings of his performances.

"Ray was very gracious for anything done for him," said Joe Adams, Charles' friend and business manager of 47 years. "He fussed about it, but he loved it. This would have been meaningful to him, definitely. He was among the first people inducted into the Rock Hall, and he was very honored by that."

Charles, 73, died June 10 of liver disease. His final studio recording, "Genius Loves Company," is an album of duets that was released this year. His life story is told in the movie "Ray" starring Jamie Foxx that is now in theaters.