Emerging from the vibrant music scene of Hartford, Connecticut, YoungRayBeats is carving a niche for himself as a talented music producer. With a passion ignited by the legends of the industry—Timbaland, Swizz Beatz, Metro Boomin, and Zaytoven—YoungRayBeats has evolved from creating beats in his bedroom to collaborating with some of the most prominent artists in the music landscape.
A Journey from Bedroom Beats to Studio Success
YoungRayBeats reflects on his journey: “I started working with local artists, and my dedication led me to Human Ipod Studios, one of the top studios in my city. This experience opened doors to collaborate with Connecticut legends and major artists.”
The Importance of Inspiration
His creative process is fueled by inspiration from a variety of sources, whether it’s a catchy tune heard in a grocery store, a new song, or the everyday sounds of life. “I find that when I get inspired, I create my best work,” he says. “Forcing myself to create often leads to a roadblock where the music lacks soul.”
A Unique East Coast Sound
Rooted in East Coast culture, YoungRayBeats’ musical style is gritty and groovy, influenced by the sounds of New York City and the South. “Growing up next to NYC, I meshed their sounds with down south vibes, creating a unique sound that I continue to evolve.”
Productivity in the Studio
His time at Human Ipod Studios has vastly enhanced his productivity. “Being surrounded by top-notch equipment allows me to create high-quality music efficiently. Collaborating with artists in this environment helps us capture our best work without losing inspiration.”
Influences Shaping Versatility
YoungRayBeats has been significantly influenced by the NY drill music and Detroit music scene, which have shaped his versatility. Currently, he is on a mission to create a new sound for Hartford while honoring his roots and the influences of local talents like DJ Kenedi, Gangstalicious, Chill Shump, and Freddy Duko. His latest project, “Ray Just Went Crazy On It,” a producer album showcasing his innovative sound, has received positive feedback and is nearing 1 million streams—a significant milestone in his career.
Maintaining Balance Amidst Challenges
Maintaining balance in his artistic journey is crucial for YoungRayBeats. “I remind myself that music is subjective. While I would love to cater to everyone, I can’t. What matters is sharing my vision and creativity, and that mindset keeps me grounded.”
Going Above and Beyond in Music Presentation
When showcasing his music, YoungRayBeats goes above and beyond, ensuring that his vision comes to life. “I direct my music videos to reflect the song’s best potential, tailoring everything from marketing to the creation of the beat.”
Embracing Technology in Music Production
Technology plays an essential role in his work, allowing him to use AI to mimic artist vocals and plugins that replicate live sounds. “Technology has sped up my process, enabling me to create productions quickly while maintaining the feeling in the music,” he notes.
Persistence in the Face of Doubt
Despite the challenges he faces, including helping others understand his vision, YoungRayBeats remains persistent. “I remind myself to stay different and humble. Even when faced with skepticism, I keep working toward my goals, and the results have been rewarding, as seen in my second producer album featuring top artists from my state.”
Memorable Experiences and Community Connection
His journey has been marked by memorable experiences, from collaborating with major industry artists to shooting music videos in some of Connecticut’s most challenging neighborhoods. One standout project is the song “Stand On Business” featuring OnlyOne QB, a CT legend, from his recent album “Ray Just Went Crazy On It Vol. 2.” The music video captures the raw essence of the neighborhood, showcasing a side of the artist that extends beyond the music, bringing the energy of the community to life.
As YoungRayBeats continues to push boundaries and redefine the sound of Connecticut, his journey is just beginning, and the world will undoubtedly be watching.