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Hoagy Carmichael was a renowned American composer, pianist, singer, and actor known for his contributions to jazz and popular music. He is particularly famous for writing and performing the song "Georgia on My Mind." Here are some interesting facts about Hoagy Carmichael and the song:

1. Birth and Early Life: Hoagy Carmichael was born on November 22, 1899, in Bloomington, Indiana, USA. His birth name was Howard Hoagland Carmichael.

2. "Georgia on My Mind": One of Hoagy Carmichael's most enduring and iconic compositions is "Georgia on My Mind." He wrote the song in 1930 with lyrics by Stuart Gorrell. The song has since become the official state song of Georgia, adopted in 1979.

3. Ray Charles' Rendition: Although Carmichael originally recorded "Georgia on My Mind" in 1930, it was Ray Charles who made it famous in 1960 with his soulful and emotionally charged version. Ray Charles's recording of the song won two Grammy Awards in 1960.

4. Influence on Jazz: Hoagy Carmichael was a key figure in the development of jazz music, particularly in the 1920s and 1930s. His compositions blended elements of jazz, pop, and blues, contributing to the evolution of jazz as an art form.

5. Versatile Musician: Carmichael was not only a composer and songwriter but also a talented pianist and vocalist. He often performed his own compositions and collaborated with other prominent musicians of his time.

6. Film and Acting Career: In addition to his music career, Hoagy Carmichael appeared in numerous films. He had a distinctive, laconic charm that made him a sought-after character actor in Hollywood during the 1940s and 1950s. One of his notable film roles was in the classic movie "Casablanca."

7. Academic Pursuits: Carmichael attended Indiana University, where he studied law. He later briefly practiced law in Florida but decided to pursue his passion for music instead.

8. Honors and Awards: Hoagy Carmichael received various honors during his lifetime, including the Songwriters Hall of Fame's Johnny Mercer Award and the Grammy Hall of Fame Award for "Georgia on My Mind."

9. Legacy: Carmichael's music continues to be celebrated and performed by artists across various genres. His timeless compositions, including "Stardust" and "Skylark," have been covered by countless musicians over the years.

10. Death: Hoagy Carmichael passed away on December 27, 1981, in Rancho Mirage, California. His contributions to American music and his enduring compositions ensure that he is remembered as a significant figure in the history of jazz and popular music.