>> Ray Robinson
bio: Up & Coming Artist RAY ROBINSON Fresh off of his amazing showing at the 2004 Canadian Urban Music Awards(CUMAs), Reach Records is proud to congratulate our signature artist, Ray Robinson on his award for R&B Single Of The Year for “Missed Your Chance” at the prestigious CUMAs show held in Toronto on October 21st, 2004. The last quarter has been a time of bountiful blessings for Ray, who was nominated for 3 CUMAs that evening – no small feat for an artist who saw his first vinyl pressed in 2004. Since his debut album, WHAT IT IS dropped in August, Ray is quickly becoming the most captivating artist to watch artist in Canada’s urban music scene. Barely breaking a sweat, Ray has crisscrossed Canada with appearances that have taken his signature soul filled, rich voice to the stage from Montreal, Ottawa, Edmonton and Vancouver, not to mention show after show at home in Toronto. This is only going to heat up for winter – this fall, Ray joined the roster of The Blue Print Agency, who promise to keep this talented and highly sought after artist on the road and at a gig near you. Ray Robinson, nee Rayon Henry, has been honing his craft for over ten years. Inspired by the church, Ray begun his pursuit of a musical career through gospel as a member of a group in the U.S. The group toured extensively throughout the United States, even gracing the stage of the musical mecca, The Apollo Theatre. Following the Apollo performance, the group garnered recognition and an album was highly anticipated. Touring had helped them build a fan base; unfortunately the group did not last. Upon leaving the group, Ray Robinson returned to Canada and the church where it all began. "The R&B market in Toronto is beginning to get some recognition, but I think it can be much bigger." Once back at home, Ray was determined to succeed as a solo artist and began recording on his own, in a humble recording studio. A multi-faceted artist, Ray Robinson writes and co-produces all of his music. Exposure to influences that span many decades has given Ray a distinctive approach to today’s rhythm and blues. Ray’s sound is accentuated by the message of Bob Marley, the smoothness of Al Green and Donny Hathaway and the sensuality and emotion of Marvin Gaye with the versatility of Prince. "Vanessa Ann Smith, I wrote my first song for that girl,” The song was entitled Give My Love A Chance. "I gave it to her before she went away to college. I was 15." Ray Robinson has performed back up for The Philosopher Kings at Massey Hall, The Mike Bullard Show, and Canada AM. Ray also appeared on Groove Essentials Volume 2, and The Baby Blue Soundcrew's Private Party: Volume 2. For two consecutive years, Ray has performed at Flow 93.5’s Urban Showcase at the Toronto Street Festival. Additionally, Ray performed back up for MuchMusic Best Rap Video nominee, BrassMunk at the Talib Kweli Show. The first single "Missed Your Chance" is now an award winning anthem and the video for the track made it through high rotation. "Missed Your Chance" was produced by Def Jam/Capitol Hill Music artist Saukrates and DJ Kid Kut. Missed Your Chance was also nominated for the Best RnB category at the 2004 MuchMusic Video Awards. Ray’s debut album What It Is, is now a JUNO 2005 nominated album! Ray’s sophomoric track, “Gots To Be The One” has been quickly followed up by “Good Times”, currently on play with Canada’s urban radio outlets. Ray Robinson – WHAT IT IS. A Voice that will ring clear across Canada and touch your soul.
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