Ryan Corey Robinson Den Bok, better known as Corey Robinson, is the youngest son of the legendary musician Ray Charles. Although Corey is often recognized because of his father’s immense fame, he has slowly forged his own path, carving out a life that reflects both his family heritage and his personal ambitions. This article dives into who Corey is beyond the spotlight, examining his background, his musical career, and his relationship with his famous father.
Quick Bio
| Full Name | Ryan Corey Robinson Den Bok |
|---|---|
| Known As | Corey Robinson |
| Date of Birth | 1987 |
| Father | Ray Charles |
| Mother | Mary Anne Den Bok |
| Nationality | American |
| Profession | Musician |
| Musical Influences | Soul, R&B, Pop |
| Social Media | Instagram, YouTube |
| YouTube Channel | Booking Corey Robinson |
| Notable Works | Call On Me (music video, 2021) |
| Tattoo Tribute | “Mary” & “Anne” (Mother’s name) |
| Relationship with Ray | Son, deep bond, personal memories |
| Public Persona | Private, music-focused |
Early Life and Family Background
Born in 1987, Ryan Corey Robinson Den Bok is the youngest child of Ray Charles and Mary Anne Den Bok. Raised in a household that balanced the legacy of one of the most influential musicians in history with the privacy of a more modest family life, Corey’s upbringing was unique. His mother, Mary Anne, played a pivotal role in shielding him from the pressures of fame while ensuring he grew up with a sense of normalcy.
Corey’s father, Ray Charles, was already a global musical icon by the time he was born. Despite his father’s fame, Corey was able to enjoy a relatively quiet childhood compared to his half-siblings, many of whom also grew up under the spotlight. His bond with Ray Charles was strong, though they spent fewer years together than Corey might have liked, as Ray passed away in 2004 when Corey was just 17.
The Influence of Ray Charles
Corey Robinson’s journey into music was deeply influenced by his father, who was one of the most iconic figures in jazz, blues, and soul music. Ray Charles, often called “The Genius,” revolutionized the music industry with his unique blend of gospel, blues, and jazz, creating a sound that transcended genres and reshaped American music. Growing up in the shadow of this legacy, Corey found his own voice in the music world, drawing inspiration from his father’s innovative spirit.
Although Corey didn’t spend as much time with his father as he would have liked, the moments they did share were special. Corey recalls fond memories of accompanying his father to concerts and receiving personal birthday greetings from Ray, who would sing to him backstage. These memories remain a source of inspiration for Corey as he continues to pay tribute to his father’s impact on his life and career.
Corey Robinson’s Musical Career
Much like his father, Corey Robinson has a deep passion for music. He is a talented musician who plays several instruments and sings. Corey has used platforms like YouTube to showcase his musical skills, posting several videos that feature him performing covers and original songs. While his uploads have been sporadic, Corey’s musical talent is clear.
His YouTube channel, Booking Corey Robinson, was launched in 2013 and has since become a place for Corey to share his music with his growing fan base. Although Corey has not yet reached the worldwide fame that his father achieved, his work resonates with listeners who appreciate his talent and passion. His music blends R&B, soul, and pop influences, with his latest release being the official music video for Call On Me, posted in 2021.
Honoring His Father’s Legacy
Corey Robinson’s tribute to his father, Ray Charles, goes beyond just words or music. In 2018, Corey shared a black-and-white photo of his father on Instagram, reflecting on how Ray had shaped his life. In the post, Corey expressed his gratitude, writing that he was “half of who I am today” because of his father. This tribute was just one of many gestures where Corey acknowledges the profound impact Ray had on his life and career.
Corey’s relationship with Ray was not just one of admiration but also of deep personal connection. Despite Ray’s death in 2004, Corey has kept his father’s memory alive through both his music and his social media presence. Corey frequently honors Ray with posts that highlight their shared history and the lasting impact his father’s legacy continues to have on him.
Corey’s Tribute to His Mother
Corey’s love and respect for his mother, Mary Anne Den Bok, are equally profound. In 2018, Corey shared a tribute to his mother on Instagram in the form of a tattoo, one hand spelling out “Mary” and the other spelling out “Anne.” This gesture served as a permanent reminder of the woman who raised him and was instrumental in shaping the man he is today. The tattoo, which Corey proudly shared with his followers, is an expression of his gratitude and love for his mother.
Mary Anne’s role in Corey’s life has been one of stability and guidance. As the mother of Ray Charles’ youngest child, she played a crucial role in shielding Corey from the media frenzy that often surrounded his father. Her influence continues to resonate with Corey, who often speaks about the importance of family and the values his mother instilled in him.
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Balancing Fame and Privacy
Despite being the son of one of the most famous musicians of all time, Corey Robinson has managed to live a life that is relatively private. While his music is accessible to those who seek it, Corey does not actively court the limelight. His decision to live a quieter life, away from the constant scrutiny of the media, has allowed him to focus on his music and personal growth.
Corey is selective about what he shares with the public, preferring to keep the details of his personal life private. This is in stark contrast to some of his siblings, who have chosen to embrace the public eye. Corey’s more reserved nature is perhaps one of the reasons why he has been able to maintain a sense of normalcy and continue to develop his artistic voice without the overwhelming pressure of fame.
What’s Next for Corey Robinson?
Looking ahead, it is clear that Corey Robinson’s musical journey is far from over. While he has not yet reached the level of fame his father did, Corey has demonstrated a strong commitment to his music. Whether or not he achieves mainstream success, Corey’s dedication to his craft and his desire to honor his family’s legacy through his work are what make him an interesting figure in the music world.
As he continues to share his music and pay tribute to his parents, it will be exciting to see what the future holds for Corey. With a growing body of work and a clear passion for music, Corey’s path is just beginning. His story, however, is one of balancing family legacy with personal ambition, and it will be fascinating to watch how his career unfolds in the coming years.
Conclusion
Ryan Corey Robinson Den Bok, or Corey Robinson, is a man who is more than just the son of Ray Charles. He is a talented musician, a son who deeply honors both of his parents, and a private individual who is determined to carve out his own identity. His journey in music, while still in its early stages, reflects a commitment to both his family’s legacy and his own artistic vision.
As he continues to pay tribute to his father and mother, Corey is not only preserving the memory of those who shaped him but also building his own legacy in the world of music. Whether through his heartfelt social media tributes or his growing body of work, Corey Robinson’s story is one of resilience, creativity, and family loyalty—a story that is only just beginning to unfold.
FAQs
1. Who is Ryan Corey Robinson Den Bok?
Ryan Corey Robinson Den Bok, known as Corey Robinson, is the youngest son of the legendary musician Ray Charles and Mary Anne Den Bok. Born in 1987, he is a talented musician and performer, continuing his father’s legacy in his own way.
2. What is Corey Robinson’s connection to Ray Charles?
Corey is Ray Charles’ youngest child. Despite having a relatively quiet upbringing, Corey shared a close bond with his father, cherishing memories of attending his concerts and spending time backstage.
3. Does Corey Robinson make music?
Yes, Corey Robinson is a musician. He showcases his talent on platforms like YouTube, where he posts videos of himself singing and playing instruments. His music blends soul, R&B, and pop influences, with a growing number of fans.
4. How does Corey Robinson honor his father?
Corey often pays tribute to his father, Ray Charles, through social media posts, sharing photos and reflections on the impact Ray had on his life. He also frequently mentions his father in interviews, emphasizing how Ray shaped his identity.
5. Is Corey Robinson active on social media?
Yes, Corey Robinson is active on social media, especially Instagram and YouTube. He shares updates about his music and personal life, as well as tributes to both his parents.
