Matt Ray and Friends: News

On May 16, 2008, Matt Ray and Friends and Chris Ray performed at the wedding rehearsal dinner for Stephen Dew and Melissa Devine. Reading Meredith Devine's email with the details, I was suprised when she wrote that she looked forward to seeing us on the boat! A paddlewheel boat on Lady Bird Lake next to downtown Austin, Tx. Check out the photo section. A great night!

Mike Jackson and I have been performing at some open mics here in Austin. The band has some new videos on YouTube under Matt Ray and Friends and we have a listing on www.reverbnation.com/mattrayfriends. Hope everyone is well and doing fine ready to face the new year. I look forward to every day, every moment and every opportunity to make a contribution to do something positive. A friend of mine, Brent Allen, released his first CD here in Austin, Texas at The Hills Cafe. Great music, great songs. Best wishes to all. In many aspects of my life I have been very successful and serve as a leader for others. In my day job, I manage a staff of 45. But twice a week I play two hours of full court basketball in a pick-up league. I'm short, older, average ball handler, average shot and at my best at defense. As a result, I am routinely picked last or next to last out of twenty men. I love it. Love the challenge. Love the exercise. Love the competition. But most of all, I love the opportunity for humility and just playing the part of a utility player. I do my part...make a few baskets, steal a ball, block a pass, set a pick, make an assist or pull down a rebound. I'm not the star and never will be but I do my part. I hope you take advantage of your opportunities each day of this year. Matt

Happy New Year 2008! The band came together in April of 2007, learning the original songs written by band leader, Matt Ray. After settling on a few cover songs to round out a set list, the band managed three separate performances.

While Matt, individually, and Matt Ray and Friends are both already listed as featured artists on the music website - www.futurewheel.com, this new website is a great addition. The band is also listed on a second website at www.reverbnation.com/mattrayfriends.

Practicing and performing will be high on the list for 2008. We are looking forward to a private performance that is scheduled in May 2008.

Hope you will listen to our songs, purchase them and get to know them.