Having already debuted top 10 for indie hip-hop on Funkmaster Flex’s Franchise record pool, and with more than 40K views garnered on his videos, the Lone Star State spitter is definitely on the rise. Under the tutelage of veteran music producer Tony Dofat [Heavy D, Mary J. Blige], B Ray is here to show and prove why he’s the only national artist to hail from his city.
When did music first enter your life?
It’s been around my whole life. I remember my stepdad had the biggest record collection I’ve ever seen. Music was always playing in my house. Road trips with my mom singing at the top of our lungs. I’d be lost without music, basically.
Growing up in Texas City, Texas, who influenced you to do what you’re doing today?
Well, in high school I had the privilege to be a part of A Few Good Men Social and Service Fraternity; [the] high school step team lil brother to Alpha Phi Alpha, started and founded by Dedrick Johnson of Texas City, Texas. That broke me out of my shell, and I knew then I wanted to perform.
At what particular point in time did music go from being a hobby into becoming a profession?
I’ll say I’m spiritual, and that’s what kind of pushed me toward the music tough. Feels like a calling. Like this is what I’m supposed to do.
How do you classify the style of music that you create?
Just being myself really. I’m not trying to be something I’m not or give that off. Everything I speak and believe in is business, and if you really listen to the music I’m giving out a lot of different experiences that may help someone out. The power of music …
From a lyrical standpoint, when you sit down to pen your rhymes where do you find your inspiration?
The toilet. It’s the quietest room in my house. We could be in the studio, E.A. would be making a beat and I would just get up and head to the restroom. ‘Bout time I come out, I would have a hook and my first verse written and ready to record.
With that being said, how did you come to the attention of former Bad Boy Entertainment producer Tony Dofat?
Contacted him through Facebook and told him I was serious. He listened to some of my music I had from ReverbNation and said he heard some things he liked, but wanted to put his touch on it. Told me if I was serious about making something shake, come to New York, and that I did.
Your debut single and video are titled “Going Down Tonight.” What can you tell us about this track?
“Going Down Tonight” is that song for the ones that pretty much live paycheck to paycheck. Don’t get me wrong your bills paid, but it’s Friday [and] that check ’bout to hit the account … you had a long week. It’s going down tonight!!!! #whaann!!!
Longevity, what do you feel it is that will sustain you in music?
Honestly, I feel I learn something new everyday. I’ve always been about helping, that’s something I pride myself on and live by. As long as I have a beat, we going to rock.
Do you have any additional aspirations, maybe even entirely away from music?
Since a kid, I told my mom I would get her business up and running for her. That’s one of my top goals just so the family can eat for years to come. I also would like to get into producing and directing film.
On a more serious note, are you happy with the current state of Hip Hop?
I could never hate or knock another person’s hustle, people have to get it how they live. But one thing I will say is that in my music I will try my best to speak as clearly as possible. I get upset when I have to play a record 10 times and the only thing I get out of if it is “lifestyle.” *Laughs again* No shade, but still to this day I have no idea what he is saying and I’m from the south. ‘Smh’ sad day in America.
Everyone either knows you already – or eventually they will – for and through your music…But what would you want those same people to know about B Ray that they won’t get from listening to your records?
I believe in my father God! I’m a hard worker and a loving father to my kids. I’m a Gemini, so you know how that goes. I tell people, “Let’s stay on the good side.” *More laughter* 0 to 100 real quick.
As an extension to that last question, what would said people find you doing in your off or spare time, completely away from the music?
Working, always working. I learned early if you want something you have to make it happen. No one is going to give you anything.
To date, what has been the highlight of your career, thus far anyway?
Just being able to travel doing what I love to do. Going to New York for the first time,
and getting to work with Tony Dofat. Yeah, that would definitely be a highlight.
Projecting, where do you see yourself in a 5 to 10 year time span?
My goal is to have a name. Just like the [A] few good men motto from back home: ‘Many are called, but few are chosen…’
What’s next for you, B Ray?
I plan on getting back in the studio with Dofat and finishing up an album.
How can people find you?
Check me out @ brayofficial.com for the latest music, videos and show dates!
#whaann!!!
“Going Down Tonight” is now available on iTunes
