RPM International

The Executive Offices of The Ray Charles Foundation are housed at the historic RPM International building. The 11,488 square foot, two story building was built in 1964 by Ray Charles to serve as his creative home and the global center of Ray Charles Enterprises, Inc. The original building design afforded space for offices and a recording studio on the second floor, as well as office tenant space on the first floor.

In 2004, RPM International was officially designated “A Cultural and Historic Landmark” by the City of Los Angeles as well as the now famous corner “Ray Charles Square.” At the ceremony, Mr. Charles was quoted “I love this place, It’s the only home I’ve truly had for most of my professional career and I thank the City of Los Angeles for their efforts to make the studios a special part of Los Angeles history.”

Numerous award-winning, world-renowned artists and albums have been recorded at RPM International. From “Country & Western Meets Rhythm and Blues,” the first album recorded here, to “Genius Loves Company,” Mr. Charles’ final recording. RPM International has been an enduring presence in the life of the man and his music for over four, historic decades.

Designed by Mr. Charles and his longtime manager, Joe Adams, RPM International and its creators remained loyal to the neighborhood, formerly known as Sugar Hill and now known as Harvard Heights.

During the early days of construction, the pair would often visit the skeletal maze of steel and concrete. The first floor, once occupied by office tenants including the Los Angeles Urban League is being transformed into The Ray Charles Memorial Library. The eagerly anticipated Ray Charles Library is scheduled to open on Mr. Charles’ 80th birthday, September 23, 2010.