Raelets

Backup Singing Group for Ray Charles

The Raelettes were a female vocal group formed and led by Margie Hendrix, who provided background vocals and support for the legendary rhythm and blues musician Ray Charles. The group's name is a play on Ray Charles's name, suggesting that they were the "Ray-lets" or "little Rays." They were an integral part of Ray Charles's sound, especially during the peak of his career in the 1950s and 1960s. The Raelettes' contributions can be heard on many of Ray Charles's recordings, where their harmonies and responses to Charles's lead vocals added depth and texture to the music. The lineup of the Raelettes changed over time, with various talented singers joining and leaving the group. Their work with Ray Charles helped to shape the sound of soul music and they often performed live with him, including international tours.