Brian Ray has lived the rock 'n' roll dream. From tearing it up with Etta James as a wide-eyed teenager to holding down the low end for Paul McCartney, Ray's résumé reads like a fantasy drafted by any self-respecting guitar geek. But now, with the release of his new solo album 'My Town,' Ray is stepping out from the shadows and into the spotlight, proving that he's not just a supporting player in someone else's band, but a bonafide frontman with stories of his own to tell. Guitar Interactive Magazine's Jonathan Graham chats exclusively with Brian Ray to discuss the making of 'My Town' and much more.
Out today on Stevie Van Zandt's Wicked Cool Records, Brian Ray's latest release, 'My Town,' is more than just an album — in many ways, it's a journey through Ray's career and an ode to the music that shaped him. Featuring guest spots from legends like Smokey Robinson and contributions from his McCartney bandmate Abe Laboriel Jr., 'My Town' showcases Ray's prowess as a songwriter, producer, and guitarist.
Long before Ray was sharing stages with a Beatle, he was just a kid from Glendale with a transistor radio, staying up late under the covers, dialling into pirate radio stations blasting rhythm and blues out of Tijuana. The music he discovered back then became the foundation of his sound — a blend of rhythm, blues, and rock that he continues to refine with every new project. "That music infected me," Ray reminisces, highlighting how this early exposure to raw, unfiltered sounds of R&B and Rock' n' Roll laid the groundwork for a career that would see him playing with some of the biggest names in music.
Ray's new album, 'My Town,' is a vibrant collection that reflects the varied influences and experiences he's gathered over the years. The lead single, "When The Earth Was Round," is not just a catchy tune — it's a reflection on the complexities of modern life, relationships, and the ever-shifting nature of truth in the digital age. It's the kind of song that could only come from someone who's seen the music industry evolve and who understands the importance of staying true to oneself amidst the chaos.
The album compiles singles Ray has released since 2017, along with four new tracks, offering a curated journey through Ray's creative output. It highlights his ability to blend rock, blues, and soul in a fresh yet familiar way. Ray's guitar work is both precise and emotive, delivering solos that resonate with feeling rather than flash. His focus has always been on capturing the spirit of a song rather than technical perfection.
When it comes to vintage gear, for Brian Ray, it's more than just an obsession — it's a connection to the music of the past. "The old ones were just better than the new ones — handmade, with care and precision. They've got a sound that you can't replicate," he says. His collection includes some serious heavy hitters — an original Les Paul from his birth year, a '60s Hofner bass, and a rare sonic blue Fender — but it's not just about the prestige. "Old wood just resonates differently... It's not hoodoo — it's real," Ray explains, emphasising that the unique sound quality of these instruments is more than just a technicality; it's a significant part of his music's character.
Ray's dedication to authenticity extends to his live performances, where he continues to play with McCartney. For Ray, every show is a balance between honouring the original recordings and injecting new life into them. "We're playing real music with real people on stage," he says. This authenticity is a hallmark of McCartney's live shows, and Ray ensures that the music stays true to its roots while allowing for spontaneity and creativity on stage.
Throughout his career, Ray has absorbed invaluable lessons from the greats he's worked with, including Paul McCartney. "You'll hear from [Paul] to keep it simple and just play with love," Ray shares. This advice has clearly resonated with him, as his playing is always characterised by a deep emotional connection to the music rather than unnecessary technical showmanship. It's a lesson in restraint that allows the music to breathe, letting the emotion shine through.
Looking ahead, Ray hints at the possibility of touring in support of 'My Town.' While he's still deeply committed to his role in McCartney's band, Ray is excited about the possibilities of what lies ahead for his solo career.
In a world where the music industry often pushes artists to chase trends and gimmicks, Brian Ray is a refreshing throwback — a musician who's in it for the love of the game, who's spent his life chasing the perfect note, the perfect song, and who's still just as passionate about it as he was when he was that kid with the transistor radio.
'My Town' is more than just an album; it's a reflection of a life spent in pursuit of musical perfection. Ray's dedication to his craft is evident in every note, every lyric, every guitar lick. This is an album that honours the past while boldly stepping into the future, offering listeners a chance to experience the world through Ray's eyes — and ears. Brian Ray may have spent his career playing alongside legends, but with this album, he's proving that he's a legend in his own right.
'My Town' by Brian Ray Tracklist
For more information on Brian Ray, please visit Brian Ray's official website.
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