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A Great Blues Talent Among the Imitators

Shortly after Ray Charles endured a family tragedy, he started to go blind. His mother feared for his future, but Charles was able to make a career in music. Rock historian Ed Ward describes how Charles, who was steeped in the tradition of Nat King Cole, developed his own unique voice.

06:56
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Other segments from the episode on July 4, 1990

Fresh Air with Terry Gross, July 4, 1990: Interview with Bob Kane; Commentary on Ray Charles; Interview with Ben Vaughn; Commentary on enunciation.
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22:44

Batman Creator Bob Kane

Kane says his inspirations for the iconic superhero included drawings by Leonardo da Vinci and Zorro. He designed Batman to be more relatable than Superman; Bruce Wayne may be rich and strong, but he's also mortal. Kane recently worked as a consultant on Tim Burton's new film adaptation, and has a new autobiography, called Batman & Me.

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03:51

The False Crisis of Poor Enunciation

Linguist Geoff Nunberg says that the attention paid to how people talk says more about class status and regionalism than a decline in effective communication. He explains.

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08:07

50 Years of Ray Charles: After Atlantic.

Rock Historian Ed Ward has pt 2 of 2 in our look at Ray Charles career. This year marks his 50th year in the music business. Much of the music comes from "Ray Charles: Genius & Soul: The 50th Anniversary Collection" (Rhino)

Commentary
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08:54

50 Years of Ray Charles: The Early Years.

Rock historian Ed Ward begins a 2-part retrospective on the work of Ray Charles, who celebrates 50 years in show business this year. Much of the music comes from "Ray Charles: Genius & Soul: The 50th Anniversary Collection" (Rhino)

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