GREENVILLE, Fla. (WCTV) - In the heart of Madison County sits a small wooden home with a big history. It’s where Ray Charles — one of the most iconic voices of the 20th century — grew up long before he became a music legend whose soulful sound defined a generation.

In WCTV’s latest “We The People” segment, we ventured down to Greenville, where it all began.

The modest home where Charles lived as a boy has been preserved as a museum, offering visitors a glimpse into his early life. Charles lost his sight at age 7 but never lost his vision for music.

Longtime friend Steve Beasley remembers Ray’s gift vividly.

“He was down to earth, and his timing was always perfect,” Beasley said. “He knew what his audience wanted and gave it back to them.”

Inside the home sits an old piano with its o

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