Today we’d like to introduce you to Madison Ray.
Hi Madison, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
Music has always been the center of my life but it wasn’t until I started studying under Johnny Contardo of ShaNaNa that I realized I could take a serious swing in show business as a talent.
After some showcases and festivals around Tokyo & California and an enlightening lunch with Shele Sondheim, I started to believe in the vision I saw for myself in this industry. His encouragement really lit a fire in me to study hard, believe in the vision, fight for my dreams and stay independent in doing so.
This dedication and determination has led me to recording studios, radio, television, record labels, nonprofits, political organizations, and universities as a songwriter, producer and entertainer on my own terms.
I’m so grateful for that.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
Honestly, if it goes smoothly I get nervous that something is catastrophically wrong.
I tend to see struggle as opportunity but show business is an immensely difficult industry to survive in. While chasing this dream, I’ve been raising a daughter which is its own full time job. Working in a field that directly opposes stability makes fatherhood tough. Seeking balance while worrying that I’m failing as not only an artist, but as a parent weighs heavily on a daily basis. And while navigating my own mental health there are also practical challenges like finding resources and managing a dozen active projects.
Even if you do everything right, things may not go your way. That path is not linear.
The beautiful thing is that I’m able to turn these difficulties into something constructive.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I am a songwriter, producer and band leader. My current project is a soul outfit called The Finesse. Everything we do from the music, recording, graphic design and filmmaking all happens in-house which allows us to keep working independently. That is something I’m most proud of. This ethos has attracted incredible veteran creatives as well as young artists and dreamers to make their best efforts together. I’ve become known as the guy who gets it done and frankly, I love that.
Risk taking is a topic that people have widely differing views on – we’d love to hear your thoughts.
I’m constantly measuring the risk/reward vibe, even if I’m not meaning to. Honestly, I feel like this whole industry runs on taking risks and being willing to gamble. It feels like all of us are outlaws hoping to win the lottery.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.thefinessemusic.com
