Della Beatrice Howard Robinson: The Hidden Voice of Ray Charles

Della Beatrice Howard Robinson, the blind musical genius, is often hailed as one of the greatest figures in American music. His fusion of jazz, blues, soul, and gospel created a genre that transformed the music industry.

But behind the scenes, there was a woman whose influence on his music, life, and legacy is often overlooked: Della Beatrice Howard Robinson.

While the public has often focused on Ray’s genius and tumultuous love affairs, Della, known affectionately as Bea, was a crucial part of his story.

From their early meeting in Houston to the struggles of raising a family while navigating the challenges of Ray’s fame, Della’s role as a mother, wife, and gospel artist was far-reaching.

In this article, we explore the life of Della Beatrice Howard Robinson, her pivotal role in Ray Charles’s career, and her lasting legacy within the gospel music world.

We’ll delve into her childhood, her influence on Ray’s rise to fame, their marriage, the impact of their divorce, and what became of Della after their separation.

Who Was Della Beatrice Howard Robinson?

Event	Date	Details
Della Beatrice Howard Robinson Born	1929	Della was born in Richmond, USA.
Della and Ray Charles Married	April 5, 1955	Della and Ray Charles married in a private ceremony in Los Angeles, California.
Ray Charles First Marriage	July 31, 1951 – 1952	Ray Charles’ first marriage, to Eileen Williams, was short-lived.
Divorce from Ray Charles	1977	After more than two decades of marriage, Della and Ray divorced due to infidelities and substance abuse.
Ray Charles’ Passing	June 10, 2004	Ray Charles passed away at the age of 73.
Della Beatrice Howard Robinson’s Age	2024	As of 2024, Della is 95 years old.

Born in 1929 in Richmond, USA, Della Beatrice Howard Robinson grew up in a family deeply involved in the church.

Della’s early life was shaped by gospel music. She grew up in a devout Christian household. Her parents were active members of their church.

From a young age, Della immersed herself in the melodies and spiritual themes of gospel music. This art form would later become something she helped shape.

Her love for music was nurtured in the church, where she often participated in the choir.

These early experiences in Richmond’s vibrant church community would have a profound impact on Della’s life, especially on her musical career.

Her parents instilled in her values of hard work, dedication, and the power of music to uplift the soul values she carried into her adult life.

Della’s Gospel Music Career

Della gift for singing was apparent from an early age, and her rich, powerful voice quickly made her a standout. By the time she was a teenager, she was performing in church choirs across Richmond, catching the attention of those who were familiar with the powerful gospel tradition.

Her early years as a gospel singer were foundational. Della was known for her ability to evoke emotion through her music, using the soulful power of gospel to connect with her audience.

One of her most notable performances was with the Cecil Shaw Church Choir.

Here, Della honed her voice in a highly spiritual environment, learning to perform with intensity and sincerity. The choir was a significant part of her musical development, where she often soloed during services, leaving a mark on her community.

She was also involved in several gospel recordings during the 1950s and 1960s, which helped establish her as a respected figure in the genre.

Della’s vocal skills were unmistakable, and she frequently recorded with prominent figures in the gospel community, making appearances on various CD covers and live performances.

These recordings played a part in laying the groundwork for what would become Ray’s more gospel-influenced style.

Faith and Family: Della’s Core Values

While music was undoubtedly a major part of her life, Della’s faith was always at the center of her existence. As a gospel artist, Della was committed to spreading joy through her music.

Her faith gave her the strength to endure hardships later in life. Della’s faith not only guided her musical expression but also provided her with the inner resilience needed to navigate the pressures of marriage to one of the most famous musicians in the world.

Despite the personal and professional challenges she faced, Della never wavered in her commitment to her family.

Della showed a nurturing and protective nature as a mother. She made personal sacrifices to provide for her children. Her influence on them was strong. Della played a key role in shaping their lives. Her impact should not be underestimated.

How Did Della Meet Ray Charles?

Della life would take a monumental turn when she met Ray Charles in Houston, Texas. By the time they crossed paths in the early 1950s, Ray was already beginning to make waves in the music world.

Known for his ability to blend gospel, blues, jazz, and R&B into a unique sound, Ray was poised to become one of the biggest stars in the history of American music.

Their meeting was serendipitous. Ray had been in Houston performing and heard Della sing with a local church choir. Immediately captivated by her powerful voice, he made it a point to meet her.

For Della, Ray’s musical brilliance was immediately apparent, and she was intrigued by his confidence and the passion he exhibited for his craft.

While Ray was still establishing his career, Della had already solidified herself as a respected gospel artist. It was this shared love of music that initially bonded them. But their connection went beyond just music.

Ray and Della began a relationship that would be defined not only by their shared passion for the art but also by deep personal admiration.

Marriage to Ray Charles: The Union of Two Musical Forces

The Beginning of Their Marriage in 1955

On April 5, 1955, Della and Ray Charles were married. At the time, Ray was only 24 years old, while Della was 26. Both were young, but their love for each other was evident.Della stood by Ray’s side during the early years of his career.

She offered her musical influence and unwavering support. She helped him navigate the pressures of rising fame.

For Ray, Della was a source of strength. Della understood the sacrifices of being an artist. She was willing to endure the emotional challenges that came with it. Ray’s brilliance as a musician and his passion for his work inspired her.

His personal integrity and vision kept Della committed to the marriage. Their shared values of faith, family, and resilience formed the foundation of their relationship.

A Family in the Spotlight

As Ray fame exploded in the late 1950s and early 1960s, Della balanced motherhood with her role as Ray’s wife. Together, they had three children: Ray Charles Jr., David Robinson, and Robert Robinson.

Raising children while living under the intense scrutiny of public life was no easy task, but Della did so with grace and determination.

Despite the demands of Ray’s career, Della remained committed to being a present and attentive mother. Della prioritized her children’s well-being, education, and moral upbringing.

She ensured they remained grounded despite the luxuries and pressures of fame. Della shielded her children from the public eye. She gave them a sense of normalcy amid the chaos of their father’s career.

Her role as a mother and her commitment to family was evident throughout her marriage.

Della’s devotion to her children was unwavering. She constantly supported Ray’s career. This marked her as an incredibly selfless figure. She always put her family’s needs before her own.

Della’s Influence on Ray Charles’s Music

Della influence on Ray’s music is undeniable. Ray Charles revolutionized music by blending jazz, blues, and R&B. However, his gospel-infused sound became the hallmark of his career.

Ray often spoke about gospel music’s impact on his style. Much of this influence traces back to Della’s teachings.

Della’s gospel background was essential in shaping Ray’s musical evolution.

From the beginning, Ray was drawn to gospel’s emotional depth and spiritual themes. Della’s presence in his life helped him explore these elements further. She enabled him to weave gospel into his jazz and blues performances. Songs like “I Got a Woman” and “What’d I Say” show Ray’s gospel-infused sound. This sound earned him recognition as one of the greatest musicians of all time.

Della participated in gospel recordings and live shows. She frequently contributed to CD covers and performances. Her role as an unsung force behind Ray’s success was solidified. While Ray was in the spotlight, Della provided the spiritual and musical foundation that allowed him to soar.

Challenges in Their Marriage

Ray’s Infidelities

No relationship is without its challenges, and Ray and Della’s marriage was no exception. One of the most difficult aspects of their union was Ray’s infidelity. Throughout their marriage, Ray was involved in numerous affairs, most notably with Margie Hendricks, a member of his backup singers.

Ray’s infidelities caused deep pain for Della, but she chose to stay in the marriage for many years. Despite his actions, Della believed in the strength of their relationship and their family. She also recognized the pressures Ray faced as a global icon. However, the emotional toll of Ray’s affairs eventually wore her down.

In addition to his infidelities, Ray’s substance abuse problems further strained their marriage.Ray struggled with heroin addiction for much of his life. Della supported him through several rehab attempts. The toll on their relationship was immense.

The Decision to Divorce in 1977

After more than two decades of marriage, Della and Ray finally decided to divorce in 1977. The split was a culmination of years of emotional strain due to Ray’s infidelities and drug addiction. Despite the end of their marriage, Della remained committed to raising their children and maintaining a dignified, private life.

Her decision to divorce was not taken lightly. Della invested much of herself into the marriage. However, she recognized she could no longer stay in an emotionally and mentally unhealthy relationship.

The divorce marked a new chapter in her life. She continued to support her children and maintain her career in gospel music.

Life After the Divorce

Della Post-Divorce Life and Career

After the divorce, Della largely stayed out of the public eye. She focused on raising her children and continuing her career as a gospel singer. Her life in the years following her divorce was a testament to her resilience. She managed to maintain a sense of normalcy for her children while also pursuing her passion for gospel music.

Though Della never remarried, she found fulfillment in her music and her role as a mother. She also worked on various community projects, helping to mentor young gospel singers and giving back to the church that had been the foundation of her musical journey.

Della Beatrice Howard Robinson’s Legacy

A Lasting Impact on Gospel Music

Della Beatrice Howard Robinson may not have achieved the same fame as her ex-husband. However, her influence in gospel music is undeniable.

Her powerful voice and unwavering faith shaped much of Ray’s music. Della remains a key figure in gospel’s integration into modern popular music.

Her legacy is quieter than Ray Charles’s, but it still inspires generations of gospel musicians and music lovers. Della’s story shows the power of love, faith, and perseverance.

She played a key role as a supportive partner to one of the greatest musicians of all time. Her contribution deserves recognition

FAQs

What Happened to Della Beatrice Howard Robinson After Her Divorce?

Della focused on her family and faith, living a quiet life away from the public eye.

How Many Children Did Ray Charles and Della Have?

The couple had three sons: Ray Charles Jr., David, and Robert.

Did Della Influence Ray Charles’ Music?

Yes, her gospel background and emotional support profoundly influenced Ray’s exploration of gospel-blues fusion.

Is Della Beatrice Howard Robinson Still Alive?

Yes, as of 2024, she is 95 years old and living a private life.

What Was Della’s Role in Gospel Music?

Della was a skilled gospel singer who performed in church choirs and contributed to recordings.

Conclusion

Della Beatrice Howard Robinson’s life is a rich and complex story of love, sacrifice, and resilience. Della played a central role in shaping Ray’s personal life and music. She influenced him from her early years in Richmond to her marriage to him.

Her faith, musical talent, and support were key to his success. The world did not always see her contribution, but it was essential.

Her contributions to gospel music and influence on Ray Charles’s music will not be forgotten. As we reflect on the life of one of America’s greatest musical legends, we must recognize Della Beatrice Howard Robinson’s vital role.

She was not just the wife of a famous musician. Della was a talented artist in her own right. She was a devoted mother and a silent force behind Ray Charles’ success.