Celebrating the Fourth of July is never complete without listening to a smattering of America’s most patriotic songs. From “The Star-Spangled Banner” to “Battle Hymn of the Republic,” these songs have captured the spirit of America.

Another classic American song that’s practically synonymous with the holiday is “America the Beautiful.” Its lyrics were written in 1893 by teacher and writer Katharine Lee Bates.

But one of the most moving and distinctive renditions of “America the Beautiful” came from soul musician Ray Charles, who recorded it in 1972.

Ray Charles and ‘America the Beautiful’

Charles released his version of “America the Beautiful” on his 1972 album A Message from the People. The album was the singer’s “most socially conscious work of his........

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