Author: DJ Rays Music

Chart Toppers 

“GOLD DIGGER” by KANYE WEST

DJ Rays Music

The song “Gold Digger” is a popular track that was recorded by American rapper, Kanye West (featuring guest vocals by Jamie Foxx). With samples taken from the Ray Charles song, “I Got a Woman”, it’s interesting to note that it was Jamie Foxx who played the role of Ray Charles in the 2004 biographical film, “Ray”. Known for its catchy beat, humorous lyrics, and memorable chorus, this song went on to win the Grammy Award for “Best Rap Solo Performance”. On this very day, September 18th 2005, it was the…

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Heaven & Earth 

HAPPY BIRTHDAY FEE WAYBILL

DJ Rays Music

Fee Waybill is an American musician and songwriter who is best known as lead singer of The Tubes. Formed in the early 1970s, this group gained a reputation for their theatrical live performances. Fee Waybill’s stage persona, often took on characters like “Quay Lewd” and “Dr. Strangekiss”. Some of The Tubes’ most popular songs include “White Punks on Dope”, “Talk to Ya Later”, and today’s song choice (that can be listened to by clicking on the provided link). On this very day, September 17th 1950, John Waldo Waybill was born…

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Chart Toppers 

“I Shot The Sheriff” by Eric Clapton

DJ Rays Music

“I Shot the Sheriff” is a song that was written and recorded by legendary reggae singer, Bob Marley. While Marley’s original version remains iconic, it was Eric Clapton’s rendition that brought the track to a wider audience (in North America). Clapton’s bluesy and rock-oriented interpretation showcased his guitar skills and (in my opinion) helped introduce reggae music to the masses. With lyrics that explore themes of justice and rebellion, the message was very on point for the societal changes taking place at the time. In 2023, Eric Clapton’s version of…

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Heaven & Earth 

HAPPY BIRTHDAY FLO RIDA

DJ Rays Music

Flo Rida is an American rapper, singer, and songwriter who gained international fame (in 2007) with his debut single “Low”. Having momentum on his side, he would go on to release several other hit singles, including “Right Round”, “Club Can’t Handle Me”, “Wild Ones”, “Whistle”, and today’s song choice (that can be listened to by clicking on the provided link). On this very day, September 16th 1979, Tramar Lacel Dillard (known professionally as Flo Rida) was born in Miami Gardens, Florida. In celebration of his birthday, exactly 45 years ago…

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Chart Toppers 

“MANIAC” by MICHAEL SEMBELLO

DJ Rays Music

“Maniac” is a very hi tempo dance track that was recorded by American singer-songwriter, Michael Sembello. It gained widespread popularity (in 1983) as part of the soundtrack for the film, “Flashdance”. The lyrics within depict the intensity and passion of a person who leaves it all on the dance floor. As a single, “Maniac” earned Grammy nominations for “Song of the Year”, “Record of the Year”, and “Best Pop Vocal Performance, Male. On this very day, September 16th 1983, it was the #1 song in America, topping Billboard’s Hot 100 chart. If you’d like to…

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Heaven & Earth 

R.I.P. RIC OCASEK

DJ Rays Music

Ric Ocasek was an American singer, musician, and songwriter who is best remembered as lead vocalist (and primary songwriter) for new wave rock band, The Cars. Some of their most popular hits include “Just What I Needed”, “My Best Friend’s Girl”, “Shake It Up”, “Drive”, and today’s song choice (that can be listened to by clicking on the provided link). In 1978, Rolling Stone magazine readers voted The Cars as “Best New Artist”, and in 2018, Ric Ocasek was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame (along with…

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Chart Toppers 

“SEXYBACK” by JUSTIN TIMBERLAKE

DJ Rays Music

“SexyBack” is an upbeat dance song that was recorded by American pop singer, Justin Timberlake. Alongside Timberlake’s amazing falsetto vocals, the lyrics within convey the confidence (and ability) to drag some swag back to the dance floor. Certified triple platinum (in the U.S.), this track went on to win the Grammy Award for “Best Dance Recording” (in 2007). That same year, Timberlake won the MTV Video Music Award for “Male Artist of the Year”. On this very day, September 15th 2006, it was the #1 song in America, topping Billboard’s Hot…

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