Exclusive Interview with RAY DA WORST

The album by RAY DA WORST is a hiphop masterpiece. It’s very ear catching with highs and lows to keep you vibing. Basically this is a double album with 33 strong songs. Stand out tracks include: SHINE FOR THE WORLD/ HEAVY DUTY(THEATRICAL) and ROTATE DA HAMMER. all songs written and engineered by Ray DA Worst. All production and scratches by DJ FURIO. Check out the exclusive interview below:

1. Your roots can often shape your journey. Can you share a story or moment from your early life that had a significant impact on your path into music?

RAY DA WORST: 16 years of age was that pivotal point for me. I was introduced to this thing called hiphop. I heard DJ KOOL HERC/ GRANDMASTER FLASH/Kurtis Blow RUN DMC and from that moment I knew what i wanted to pursue.

2. Did your musical journey begin with formal training, or was it more of a personal exploration? How has that shaped your unique approach to your craft?

RAY DA WORST: it was more of a personal exploration. I had nothing but love for the game of hiphop. I soon realized how big the culture was and how it impacted people. It was a feeling a certain space and also a powerful movement.

3. Who were some of the most influential figures in your early musical life, and how did they inspire your sound? Also, what’s the story behind choosing the name ‘RAY DA WORST’?

The forefathers of hiphop most definitely has had an influence on my sound. I’m talking bout GRANDMASTER FLASH,THE FORCE MDS, RUN DMC, UTFO AND AS WELL NEW EDITION. These brothers did it for me. Their music is embedded in my soul. The name? Ray Da Worst is just a shorter version of Raymond the Worst Degree. When I’m on that mic it’s corrupt it’s bad it’s ill ya know.

4. What do you believe sets your music apart? How would you describe your sound to someone discovering you for the first time, and what emotions or experiences do you hope to evoke in your listeners?

RAY DA WORST: My sound is just plain raw. I like simple 1-2 beats with that Bap sound. My sound is Alley. It’s pure but at the same time dirty. I try to give the listener a part of my story and life as well I like to hit them with some nice metaphors.

5. For most artists, originality is first preceded by a phase of learning and, often, emulating others. What was this like for you? How would you describe your own development as an artist and music maker, and the transition towards your own style, which is known as HIPHOP?

RAY DA WORST: well I have a song called JUSTBEME. And it’s pretty self explanatory. Be original and be yourself and u can’t go wrong. And just keep being creative.

6. Music often transcends entertainment. What’s your view on the role and function of music as political, cultural, spiritual, and/or social vehicles – and do you try and affront any of these themes in your work, or are you purely interested in music as an expression of technical artistry, personal narrative, and entertainment?

RAY DA WORST: I’m purely interested in music and entertainment. Political and spiritual matters. This world needs more unity. But to each is own.

7. Do you feel the rewards of your musical career match the energy and passion you invest in it, or are there different kinds of fulfillment you’re still seeking?

RAY DA WORST: yes because I stay true to myself and if you’re true to yourself the fans will respect and recognize.

8. Can you walk us through your creative process? From the first spark of an idea to the finished track, what’s the most essential part of your process, and how do collaboration or external influences shape your work?

RAY DA WORST:Well first off I’m constantly coming up with ideas. And with ideas one things for sure! You will lose them quickly. So I’m constantly getting busy with the pen work. And far as external influences so much is going on in this world that they most definitely add to the shape of my craft.

9. What’s been the most challenging hurdle in either your personal life or music career, and how has it shaped you as an artist?

RAY DA WORST: The most challenging hurdle has been this whole internet thing. The way we used to grind and sell cds out the trunk and the street corner days are gone. Now a days it’s all internet and social media. What happened to putting in the foot work? It’s confusing but I had to adjust to the new ways of doing things.

10. On the flip side, what moment or achievement in your career so far has made you feel the proudest, and why?And let’s talk about your latest release and future plans.

RAY DA WORST: i feel very proUd of this moment. This projecT has been fun. I put the work in whic lead to great reviews and feedback. the new album Titled the quiet one is a must listen.

11. With social media having a heavy impact on our lives and the music business in general, how do you handle criticism, haters, and/or naysayers in general? Is it something you pay attention to, or simply ignore?

RAY DA WORST:I ignore it. It’s people’s opinion and they have the right to speak but. I just keep it moving.

12. Creative work in a studio or homeenvironment, or interaction with a live audience? Which of these two options excites you most, and why?

RAY DA WORST:Creative work and live audience. Most definitely.

13. Do you think is it important for fans of your music to understand the real story and message driving each of your songs, or do you think everyone should be free to interpret your songs in their own personal way?

RAY DA WORST: it’s very important for the fans to understand but people will be free and get what they get from it.