Ray Boyland - Jazz Saxophonist
Having been called one of Atlanta’s best kept secrets, Ray is an artist seeking to redefine the term, “Inspirational Jazz”.
The well-touted Berklee College of Music in Boston, MA. – known for producing great musical talents as Quincy Jones, Diana Krall, Branford Marsalis, and Mindy Abair – helped to shape Ray’s musical career.
Ray has gone on to record with some of Gospel music’s most accomplished recording artist. He has opened for Al Green, Jerry Butler, Karen Clark-Sheard and many others. Ray has also shared his talents on several great musical plays as “Mama Don’t” by playwright Michael Matthews and “Woman Thou Art Loosed” written by Bishop TD Jakes and produced by Tyler Perry.
November 2000, “Because of You,” Ray’s debut CD hit Store shelves and soon became the best distributed jazz CD in it’s category with distributor, Red Eye Distribution in a 12 month period. The CD features soulful renditions of gospel classics “Oh Happy Day” and “Amazing Grace.” The CD’s title track,“Because of You” features Ray’s sultry vocals and a soul touching saxophone solo on this beautiful ballad. It catapulted to the number 6 spot on Dr. Bobby Jones’ Top 20 Count Down list on his weekly syndicated radio show, “The Light.”
In 2004, after great success with his debut CD, Ray released”Reflections” his sophomore recording. The CD which features mostly originals shows a more contemporary side of Ray’s style and feel for Inspirational Jazz and has captured an international audience. Ray’s band, BoylandPoint has just completed its first CD. “Small Talk” is scheduled for release April 2007. Ray along with five of the most talented musicians in the ATL, takes us back to the days of Funk and Fusion with a twist of old school jazz. This is a keeper!
Be sure to check out this talented Saxophonist along with the hottest band in Atlanta “Boyland Point”. Website: www.myspace.com/boylandpoint.