Ray Charles' Tour Bus donated to Morehouse

The midnight blue tour bus that carried music legend Ray Charles around the country has begun a new career at Morehouse College.

The bus, donated to the college by the Ray Charles Foundation, will be on display, and may be used for trips by student groups. Emblazoned with the image of Charles' famous face, the vehicle is fully equipped with 35 customized seats, four televisions and a kitchen.

Joe Adams, Charles' longtime manager, said, "This is where Ray would have wanted to be. It served us well and now we want it to serve the wonderful students at Morehouse College."

Charles and Adams each donated $1 million toward the center and student scholarships. Morehouse College president Walter Massey believes the bus will motivate other students who desire to be in the music industry.

"This is a fitting symbol to illustrate the relationship that Ray had with Morehouse," Walter said. "The Performing Arts Center, which will be named for Ray, as well as the symbolism of the bus will inspire our students."

Ray supported other HBCUs
Charles received an honorary degree from Morehouse in 2001. The legendary blind pianist and saxophonist, who died from acute liver disease in 2004, donated $1 million through his organization to Dillard University in New Orleans.

In remembrance of Charles, Albany State has received contributions for an auditorium.

"We are continuing everything that Ray dreamed of," Adams said. "We are branching out and helping other schools remember him."