American singer-songwriter Ray Johnson has released a new song titled “Carried By The Wind,” further enriching his impressive legacy with new musical brushstrokes.
The musical journey of the St. Charles, Illinois native, whose interest in music was awakened at age six, started at that time with his involvement in choral groups.
Ray’s interest in music expanded, and he began performing with a number of cover bands and participating in the local music scene, where he honed his voice and guitar skills.
Ray’s passion for music never wavered when he was growing up. In high school, he maintained his dedication to singing in choirs and other vocal ensembles while also devoting himself to learning guitar to the point that he eventually formed his own cover band.
Ray went on to college after graduating from high school, where he studied business and music. With the knowledge and training he gained through his academic endeavours, he was able to delve further into the theoretical components of his musical interest.
Ray stopped playing cover songs and started writing his own once he finished college. As a result, he founded the band Saldo Kreek and began recording his own music.
Ray has had a long and successful career as a musician, and he is now the proud owner of his own recording studio and publishing organisation, “Soon To Be Famous Publishing LLC.”
His most recent work, “Carried By The Wind,” is representative of Ray’s growth as a musician. The tune, a reflective indie folk story, is propelled by acoustic melodies that give off a sense of timelessness. Ray’s music is characterised by heartfelt narratives that pull in listeners with every chord and word.
Ray Johnson’s astonishing ability to combine traditional folk components with modern indie ideas in “Carried By The Wind” is a monument to his growth as an artist and creates an earworm of a song that lingers in the mind long after the final note has faded. Dive in and let this fresh and beautiful breeze fill your sails as you listen to Ray Johnson’s music.
Could you tell us about the creative process behind “Carried By The Wind”?
All of my writing is acoustic guitar-based. What varies at times is whether it is music first or lyrics first.
With “Carried By The Wind”, the lyrics started the writing process and then found the right guitar accompaniment to match the lyric followed. Once the guitar and vocals were recorded, the addition of bass and keys were added to the mix to round out the sound.
All recording and post-production are provided in-house with the use of Pro Tools. All distribution and promotion are provided in-house by Soon To Be Famous Publishing LLC.
What inspired you to create “Carried By The Wind”?
The characters involved are fictitious. However, the concept of emotion and love is factual. In general, everyone has experienced meeting someone who draws significant attention upon their first encounter.
In this particular case, the individual is vibrant, energetic, self-assured and completely in touch with their existence and the moment taking place. In fact, they seem to be carried by the wind.
This particular line came to me as I was contemplating one aspect of human relationships. “Carried By The Wind” became the title of the song and I proceeded to write a story that demonstrates the actions of a person who is carried by the wind and the effect he/she has on the person who is drawn to him/her.
How do you envision “Carried By The Wind” resonating with your audience, and what impact do you hope it will have on listeners as this has the potential to become a fan-favourite?
I believe the impact of “Carried By The Wind” will stir emotions that are relatable and familiar to the listener.
The feelings and desires that are conveyed through the lyrics and story are quite universal. As you listen to the story it is easy for the listener to put themselves in the shoes of the vocalist. Everyone, at some time or another, has encountered someone like the person being defined.
Are there any specific genres or musical influences that have played a significant role in shaping your sound and style as an artist?
I have always fashioned myself as a songwriter/storyteller. Songs that convey messages, tell stories, touch the human spirit and create emotions are what I’m all about.
If the song can reach an individual, create personal involvement and stir emotions, then I have done my job. As a listener, you reach these places when you listen to my songs. Musically, my songs are acoustic guitar-based.
I have always been drawn to the songwriter arena. Artists such as James Taylor, Jim Croce, Carol King and a multitude of other artists collectively have shaped my career. Regardless of the genre, if the song has meaning and can reach the soul, chances are pretty good that I’m going to like the song.
How do your distinctive sound and style reflect your musical journey and creative growth?
When you are a songwriter you are on a continuous journey, there is no end. Songwriting is a way of communication. You laugh, you cry, you worry, you love and feel pain.
A songwriter is always on a quest to reach others in hopes of connecting on a personal level. To be heard and understood is how you find true peace. Style and delivery are a matter of preference but delivering a message and creating feelings through music is always the ultimate goal.
How do you approach developing your visual aesthetic and creating a cohesive brand that aligns with your musical identity?
Personally, I don’t really care about the aesthetics and visual appearance of any artist. All that matters is the art itself and the means by which it is crafted. If your art moves people, your image/brand will follow suit. Personally, I will let my songs speak for me then my existence/persona will always shine through.
Technology has transformed music consumption and sharing. How do you adapt and use digital channels to reach global audiences?
There is no question the landscape has changed considerably when it comes to recording, promotion and distribution. There is no doubt in my mind that there is no better time to be an independent artist.
All the tools you need to record, distribute and promote are at your disposal. Not like years ago when major labels ruled the industry. Today, with the help of so many streaming services, digital distributors and online promotion tools, the need for label representation is no longer the only avenue to success.
I have and continue to make headway in this competitive industry by maximizing every opportunity available to me. I record in my own studio, distribute and promote my work, and continue to build a following and love what I do.
The best part is that I’m in control and can make important decisions. Being an independent artist is the way to go.
Can you give us a glimpse into what the future holds for your music?
My future is now. I continue to write meaningful songs that people really like, I am at peace with my contributions to the world I live in.
By using my music as a vehicle to get to where I need to be, I have found a life that is enriching and rewarding.
Everybody seeks money, fame and fortune but the real winners are those that believe in themselves and believe in what they do. I consider myself to be fortunate.
Do you have any advice for aspiring songwriters?
Believe in yourself, believe in your art, stay positive, Remember, there are more than enough people on a list of those who think you can’t be successful or think you aren’t good enough, don’t put your name on that list.
If you don’t believe in yourself and what you’re doing, then you’re probably in the wrong business. Try to look beyond the glitter and gold, if you can do that, you will find the fortune and wealth you seek already resides in you.
