Ray Robinson

Ray Robinson has received a Juno nomination for R&B/Soul Recording of the Year.

One would think that Ray Robinson might be a puddle of nerves after receiving his first Juno nomination for his debut CD, What It Is.

Instead, the Toronto native just exudes a laid-back sense of calm. “Anytime anybody nominates you for an award, it’s greatly appreciated,” says Robinson, who is set to open for New Edition on Feb. 20 at The Hummingbird Centre. “... it’s not something that I take to validate my work.”

But maybe Robinson’s chilled reaction is due in part to his having visited awards territory before. In 2004, he received a nod at the Canadian Urban Music Awards for Best R&B Recording of the Year; and at the Much Music Video Awards for R&B video.

This year, he’s up for a Favourite Urban Artist/ Group trophy at the Canadian Independent Music Awards, which are given out in March as part of Canadian Music Week. Robinson got his Juno nomination for R&B/Soul Recording of the Year, and those awards will be given out April 3 in Winnipeg.

Robinson has been composing songs since the age of 15. He spent 10 years as part of the gospel music scene, touring the U.S. extensively as part of a choir that even got the chance to perform at Harlem’s famed Apollo Theater. And while he’s since moved on to secular music, he hasn’t abandoned his past.

“I still do gospel, and there is a very thin line between the (two genres) for me,” he explains. “In some of the content of secular music ... it gives you more options, and I can sing about so many different things. ... I don’t want any restrictions.”

He has no qualms, however, about embracing words of wisdom from other musicians. About three years ago, he was given advice by another Canadian soul survivor, Glenn Lewis, when the two crossed paths in New York.

“Glenn was saying, ‘Don’t rush to sign anything with anybody, and if you’re going to do something, make sure you research it first.’”

Did Lewis’ advice pay off? “Yes,” says Robinson.

Visit http://entertainment1.sympatico.msn.ca/music to vote in the Canadian Independent Music Awards.

Terri-Lynne Waldron For Metro Toronto

http://www.metronews.ca/entertainment_music_detail.asp?id=6353

- Metro Newspaper

It seems like decent, soulful R&B albums are few and far between nowadays. It's a good thing then that the latest entry into the genre is none other than a Toronto native, Ray Robinson. This gospel-belting, ballad-melting, rhythm-making man follows in the same spirit as Musiq Soulchild but with a noticeably more urban edge. Although soul is hard to come by in an urban market saturated with pop and their sisters, artists like Maxwe ll, Jill Scott, and now Ray Robinson, show that love will never get old.

His first single "Missed Your Chance" should be familiar to anybody who has their dial set to Much Music. "Be The One" is another track going on the same vibe, with some samples thrown in for an old school feel. "Because Of You," and "Gotta" have that reggae vibe that change up the flow nicely. If you're worried whether there any bumpin' and grindin' tracks, "Pleasure Is Pain," and "Patiently Waiting" are sure to please. Plus, add to that the reggae tunes mentioned before, and you should be set for the night (go tiger!).

Artists such as this tend to get passed over in record stores because the flocks of teens all with burning holes in their SpongeBob wallets are suckers for hype. A shame since great soul tunes probably conceived you in the first place. With an album as varied as this that will find itself at home in a DJ crate as well as your bedroom's CD player, keep on eye on this up and comer in the near future for some big things in the R&B realm.

http://the-underground.ca/html/archives/issue_07/reviews/reviews_2.html - The Underground

Ray Robinson is a Juno newcomer with some stiff competition in the 2005 R&B/Soul Recording Of The Year category. He’ll be duking it out with petite powerhouse Keshia Chante, Gary Beals, Jacksoul and Tamia.

Robinson’s post-Gospel soul can be found on the LP What It Is, which has earned him a win at the Canadian Urban Music Awards and a nomination at the upcoming Indie Awards.

ChartAttack had a chance to chat with Ray yesterday at the Juno Nominees press conference in Toronto.

ChartAttack: We’re sick of this whole "Canadian modesty" thing — can you give us some blatant self-promotion to justify your nomination?
Ray Robinson (MC voice): RAY ROBINSON WHAT IT IS IN STORES NOW — BEST ALBUM EV-ER, OF ALL TIME.

There’s all these sexy duets at American awards shows (with Jennifer Lopez and Marc Anthony singing together at this year’s Grammys), so who would you like to do a sexed-up duet with at the Junos?
Mmmmmm, Shania Twain.

If you win, do you actually have a mantle to put the award on?
No, no, no. I still haven’t made a lot of money yet, so… eventually.

So where would it go?
I’d probably put it in my closet, I’d make sure I have a big closet, so every time I go in there to get clothes I could just see it.

Anne Murray is like the Juno Queen, she’s got 24 of them, eclipsing everyone else — so name one activity where you know you could kick her ass.
Hmm, basketball for sure, for sure.

If you win, what are you gonna do to celebrate?
Actually, when I lose I’m celebrating. I was nominated, I feel like I won already. But I’ll just have fun, enjoy, keep recording music. That’s what I love.

Do you watch the Junos when you’re not a nominee?
Uhhhhh, I watch parts of the Junos.

—David McDougall

http://www.chartattack.com/damn/2005/02/0905.cfm

- Chart Attack

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. 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 where it all began; Toronto Canada and the church. Once back in Toronto, Ray was determined to succeed as a solo artist and began recording on his own, in a small-unknown studio.


A multi-faceted artist, Ray Robinson writes and co-produces all his music. Exposure to influences that span decades has given Ray a distinctive approach to today's rhythm and blues. Mr. Robinson's sound has 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.


Ray Robinson has performed back up for the Juno award winning Philosopher Kings at Massey Hall, The Mike Bullard Show, and Canada AM. He also appeared on Groove Essentials Volume 2, and The Baby Blue Soundcrew's Private Party: Volume 2.


Most recently, Ray performed at the Annual Toronto Street Festival for Toronto's #1 Urban Radio Station Flow 93.5's Urban Showcase. Additionally, Ray performed back up for MuchMusic Best Rap Video nominee, BrassMunk at the Talib Kweli Show.


Listen out for "Missed Your Chance" climbing the charts across the country as we speak and the hot music video on Much Music and Much Vibe. This single has been produced by rapper and producer extraordinaire Saukrates (Def Jam/Capitol Hill Music) and Kid Kut of the infamous Baby Blue Sound Crew.


The debut album "What it is" is scheduled to be released in April 2004 on Soul Clap Records. The follow up single "Be the One" is sure to confirm that Ray is no fly by night one single artist, but rather a talented musician here to stay.







CONTACT :: COMMENTS :: PRIVACY POLICY :: LEGAL © Copyright Standard Radio Inc., 2004

http://www.urbnet.com/VIBE-feature.asp?ueid=488 - Vibe 98.5

From the title intro “What It Is,” Ray Robinson, the artist melodically sketches and captures on canvas, a realistic picture about life, as seen by the collective eyes of many. His eclectic, neo-soulful, style reflects many contemporary influences. He’s bringing it to the ladies, with the sensitivity of a masseur, touching all the right places with perfect pressure. “My Heart” speaks about the depth of his love for his queen; while, “Missed Your Chance” is serving ‘em notice. Spending quality time is the essence, in “I’m Down” and “Good Times” remembers the wonderful past. The “Pretty Baby/My Child” interlude sets up “Because Of You” which depicts a father’s love. “Move It” is a wide-open “SWYMGY” body-rocker. “Gotta” exposes how “bleeding hearts,” still touched by love, must let go. “Girlfriend” expresses young love in stark contrast to the predestined amour found in “Heaven.” In “Be The One,” he is the right one. “Summer Star” ends his search for love and “Pleasure Is Pain” tells of the painful pleasure of making sweet love. And please believe, he will be “Patiently Waiting” to find that special lady. Although reminiscent of D’Angelo, Musiq, and at times, a young Stevie Wonder, “Rayon” brings new flava to the mix, a bold breath of Canadian fresh air. (The project also contains HOT bonus tracks) – Etienne Carter (ThroughTheVine.com)

http://www.throughthevine.com/attvemm_rayon.html - Through the Vine

The best thing Ray Robinson has going for him is his voice. It's distinguishable from other R&B artists trying to make an impact on a tough market to break, and is strong enough reason to take a chance on his debut album, "What It Is," released last week.

Robinson has been receiving heavy airtime on urban radio stations in Canada for his songs "Missed Your Chance" and "Be the One," but his soulful music appeals to a much broader audience.

He already has toured the U.S. and even played at the Apollo with his old gospel group, but now Robinson is focused on succeeding as a solo artist.

Robinson spoke with andPOP after a recent CD release preview in Toronto. Watch the interview to learn about his first songwriting experience at age 15, the advice Glenn Lewis gave to him, his high hopes for his album, and much more. Watch until the end to hear Mr. Robinson perform part of "Be the One."

Watch Interview
http://andpop.com/article/3547
- andPOP