In today’s episode, I interview Steven Ray, a legendary figure in the music and entertainment industry. His expansive career began as a roadie for Sammy Davis Jr. and George Rhodes, and as a production assistant to Quincy Jones. Steven’s early work includes contributing to groundbreaking projects such as Michael Jackson’s Thriller, We Are the World, The Color Purple, and productions by Frank Sinatra and James Ingram.
“Music is frequency. And frequency is healing. When you're in the presence of someone channeling that, it’s almost like being in a temple.” - Steven Ray
He later became a Senior Executive at Capitol Records and played a pivotal role at Windswept Pacific, where he signed and collaborated with major artists like Mariah Carey, Usher, TLC, Destiny’s Child, and Beyoncé, contributing to over 150 million units sold. Steven’s creative vision and industry expertise extend beyond music, as the founder of Red River Pictures, producing projects like Broadway’s Ghost and the upcoming films Little Rootie Tootie and Son of the South (now streaming).
In 2023, Steven co-hosted the Stories in the Room podcast on Thriller and appeared in the documentaries Thriller 40 and The Greatest Night in Pop. Known for his deep relationships and industry savvy, Steven is a sought-after advisor and a visionary in entertainment.
We dive into the transformative power of music, spiritual transmission through sound, and the lessons Steven has learned from working with some of the greatest artists of all time, including Michael Jackson.
In this episode, we discuss:
- The spiritual power of music and how it can transcend the performer
- Memorable moments with Michael Jackson and behind-the-scenes magic
- The healing role of sound and vibration
- The intersection of fame and spiritual awakening
- What makes a piece of music timeless and sacred
- Insights into intuition in the creative process
- How music contributes to cultural transformation in today’s world
Steven also shares his advice for the next generation of artists, the importance of studying music, and his thoughts on the evolution of the music industry in this era of social media and mass influence.
Don’t miss this enlightening conversation with a true industry legend. Tune in to Gateways to Awakening, where we host transformative discussions on wellness, creativity, and spirituality.
Learn more about Steven Ray and his work at Stories in the Room, Instagram: @Mr.StevenRay
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