About

Talented songwriter/rock vocalist Ray West’s career has been much like his music – melodic, soulful and psychotic! Hard rock and heavy metal enthusiasts are well familiar with his raspy and raw, yet strong and distinctive, vocal style. Born in Brooklyn and raised in Ft. Lauderdale, West’s father turned him on to genres of music from soul to rock and roll. Growing up, Ray became influenced by celebrated bands like such as Black Sabbath, Van Halen, Pink Floyd, AC/DC, Humble Pie, Judas Priest and Santana and the singing styles of notable greats including James Brown, Elvis Presley, Stevie Wonder and Michael Jackson.

After singing in numerous bands while living in Ft. Lauderdale, West moved to New York City. Soon after, he joined the band Spread Eagle. They were signed to MCA/Universal and  burst upon the NYC music scene, playing an explosive brand of rock that came straight from living in New York City’s infamous Lower East Side. Their self-titled debut album featured wailing vocals and razor sharp guitar, as heard in popular songs such as “Switchblade Serenade,” “Scratch Like A Cat” and “Broken City.” The band acquired worldwide critical acclaim, propelling them to the forefront of their genre. They released and toured with their second album, “Open to the Public” a few years later. While life on the road had its moments, West felt the need to reassess his life. After leaving the limelight for a few years, his love of performing brought him right back to his true passion, singing. An accomplished performer in other arenas, West has also done theatre and stand-up comedy and is currently a cast member of the off-Broadway Gypsy rock underground comedy hit “Viva Patshiva!”

For most of his career West has shared his gift by teaching voice, which he started during his Spread Eagle days. He has created two rock courses, “Grit to Aggression” and “Melody to Madness,” helping students learn his unique vocal style.

West recently finished recording a new album with his band APW, aka All Points West, with producer Miguel “Nino” Gonzalez. The album was released in October 2009. The track “Novacaine” has been featured on USA Network’s new TV series, “Burn Notice,” and will be featured on FX Channel’s “Sons of Anarchy”. The track will also be in a new independent movie, “Paper Man.” The song “Hypothermia” is featured in the BRAAP film, “Narly 9.” Additionally, the songs “Crash,” “Got my Gun,” and “No State of Grace” are all featured in the film “Crusty Demons”.

All Points West has gained a great following in the hard rock and metal club scene. They’ve played a plethora of live shows this year , including gigs at Don Hill’s in Manhattan, Dingbatz in New Jersey and the Flushing Library in Queens. The band members who help bring West’s music to life include Eddie Campbell (guitar), Vinny Cantatore (bass), and Lee Nelson (drums).