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Layout by CoolChaserMike Ray (songwriter/artist). Born Michael Gilbert Rae in Los Angeles California, January of ‘86. His parents were constantly playing rock n’ roll, soul, doo wop, mo-town and funk. At the age of 7, he moved to Montreal with his mother & brother and began listening an eclectic mix of music from artists such as Michael Jackson, Nirvana, Kriss Kross and Snoop Doggy Dogg. The following year he performed the song “Informer†by Snow in front of his 2nd grade class and was hooked.By age 12, he was performing songs at parties and even his elementary graduation. After listening to his brother and artists such as Big L, Canibus, and Eminem he began writing and freestyling at battles on Fridays in his high school gymnasium. Also an incredibly gifted hockey player, Mike Ray has played with and against NHL players and draft picks. However the pressure of playing AAA hockey in Montreal, injury, and a rebellious attitude coupled with his newfound love of hip hop music led him away from hockey and into a downward spiral. While his love for hip hop was evident his distaste for school was apparent. He began spending more and more time in detention while showing a lack of discipline and respect towards teachers. He began experimenting with drugs and alcohol and had more than a few police encounters. He entered AA and an anger management program. No matter, soon, he was kicked out of his house and eventually moved back to Southern California to live with his father at 16. On a return visit to Montreal he then cut a 5 track demo with the Montreal based producer/songwriter David Hodges.Mike then took a year off from music but after being pushed by friends & music producers, he again wanted to record. He has collaborated with many different artists/bands and performed at several night clubs. He continues to record.
