Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Ray Charles Lockamy. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Ray Charles, appreciate you joining us today. We’d love to hear the backstory behind a risk you’ve taken – whether big or small, walk us through what it was like and how it ultimately turned out.

In February of 2022, I was offered the opportunity to record music professionally as a solo artist. Over the last few years, I’ve had several opportunities to record music with other local artists here on the Eastern Shore of Maryland, but I never envisioned that I’d be putting out my music as a solo artist. A family friend, Jaye Harmon, a veteran radio personality, songwriter, producer, and musician originally from the Eastern Shore of Maryland, now residing in Atlanta, had the opportunity to hear me sing at a funeral in 2018. Over the next several years, Jaye would periodically reach out to me about doing some music together and discuss my future in the music industry. Timing after our initial encounter always seemed to be an issue, including my engagement, the pandemic, followed by my wedding in 2021. Finally, after a phone call one cold wintery night, much prayer, and encouragement from my lovely wife, I felt I was finally ready. It was truly a risk and a faith walk to start my musical journey at that particular time, all while remaining employed full-time with multiple duties and responsibilities. At the time, my wife and I had just finished paying for a beautiful wedding, and we had just finished moving into our first place together as husband and wife. I am a thinker, so financially, my mind said this is the worst possible time to be thinking about kicking out unnecessary expenses associated with recording, but my heart said God would make a way if I just put my trust and my faith in him. Listening to my heart and the voice of God during that moment proved to be the right choice. I released my first single, “You Are,” written and produced by the team of Jaye Harmon and Toneisha Harris, an accomplished singer, songwriter, actress, and 2nd place runner-up on Season 18 of NBC’s The Voice in March 2023. That moment led to present-day accomplishments. I will be releasing a new single on JPE Music/DAF Entertainment Group before the end of the first quarter of 2025, with an EP to follow.

Ray Charles, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

By profession, I’ve worked in mental health case management for the last 13 years full-time. I also lead in my local church as the director of music. Music has been embedded in my spirit from birth. I come from a musical family who has sung semi-professionally all over the country for the last 45 years. Somehow, in my spare time, I still find time to serve occasionally as a wedding performer. I would like potential new listeners and supporters to know that I am a well-rounded singer/musician. I draw inspiration from all genres of music, including jazz, country, rock, pop, and soul music, and infuse them into my unique sound.

What do you think is the goal or mission that drives your creative journey?

My goal is to bring healing and togetherness through music. I’ve always believed that through music, the world can change.

For you, what’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative?

The reward I get from being an artist is seeing how my music affects others. I treat the art of singing and playing the piano like telling a story. I know how hearing the music of my favorite artists makes me feel, and I can only hope that my music continues to do the same for my listeners.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/raycharleslockamymusic/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/166Bbi5qHq/
• Twitter: @RayLockamyMusic
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@thee_songsta

Image Credits

Visual Vibes Photography-Jerron Collier
Peculiar Images-Rj Paulk