Kirk Watson: “H.R. 504, a bill to rename a post office located in Los Angeles, California, the Ray Charles Post Office, is a small act…”

“H.R. 504, a bill to rename a post office located in Los Angeles, California, the Ray Charles Post Office, is a small act to commemorate one of the true giants of the 20th century in popular music. Ray Charles is both a national treasure and a international phenomenon. He was also a long-time resident of Los Angeles and the 33rd Congressional District, living right around the corner from me. The story of Ray Charles's life is full of paradoxes. It is about rags to riches, the sacred and the profane, and triumph overcoming tragedy. It is the material of Horatio Alger and Mark Twain. It is a uniquely American story; and his music, a melting pot blend of pop, country, gospel, blues and jazz, brilliantly reflects the rich American cultural and musical tapestry in its various shades, shapes, and premonitions. Much has been written about Ray Charles's life, and his rise from poverty and obscurity in St. Augustine, Florida, to his decision to migrate to Seattle, a decision he made by asking a friend to find him the farthest point from Florida on a map of the Continental United States. Many of you have probably seen the movie ``Ray,'' and the Oscar- winning performance of Jamie Foxx. What we learned from the life of Ray Charles is that he constantly persevered in the face of adversity and often overwhelming odds. He learned very early that the two constants of life are change and adaptation. Those qualities are reflected in spades in his music.…”