photo: Lander/FJD
Meet Ray!
The Music Man
interview: Derrick Reaves
He’s more widely known for his disarming, welcoming smile, his perfectly mixed cocktails and warm demeanor, but Ray is more than just a mean mixologist and cute charmer. This cocktail slinger has turned his hobby producing music into a life-long secondary career. He is so well rounded that his coworkers always describe him as deep. “Am I the deep one?” He responds with a laugh, “I mean, I guess I am.” Did we mention how modest he is? “I just try to look at things from every possible perspective,” he says more seriously.
It is this philosophy that imbues his approach to his work, his passions for music, and his affection for his customers. He professes to attempt to treat every customer at his section of the bar as an individual, whether said customer requires good anonymous advice, good after-work conversation or just a good drink. Musically, it is his staunch determination and fierce resistance to artistic complacency that motivates him.
That isn't to say that this Taurus doesn't have his materialistic side. “That boy is a sneaker whore who loves sneakers the way Carrie [Bradshaw] loves shoes!” comments fellow crew member Achilles. So whether you are looking to unwind after a long day, talk tunes or dish on the latest, hottest pair of kicks, get to know Ray.
- What is your favorite book?
Anything by [humanist self-help guru and American author of “Your Erroneous Zones,” one of the best-selling books of all time] Wayne Dyer.
- What is your favorite vacation location?
There are still so many places that I need to go and see.
- What were some of your favorite activities, hobbies and interests in school?
Football and hockey.
- Where did you go to college?
St. John’s.
- What is your favorite drink?
Tequila. On the rocks.
- What is your favorite night at G Lounge?
Saturdays. It has such a great energy and a diverse crowd [of people] who really enjoy themselves. It makes my job easy.
- Do you have a favorite DJ?
I think they are all great and very different.
- What would you say is your sexiest feature?
My mind.
- What do you find attractive in others?
Honesty.
- What are your current hobbies and interests?
Music production and DJ-ing.
- Where would you like to see yourself end up in your music career/hobby?
It’s more personal, for fun right now. There are a lot of avenues open to anyone who knows music production. For example, film. I would love [to get involved in] something like that.
- How long have you been studying music?
I have been studying and playing with music production for about five years now, but I unfortunately don’t have enough time to commit to it yet.
- How did you get involved in music?
I have always loved music from a very young age, but then I started working in the nightlife industry and befriended a lot of DJs and producers who inspired me.
- You share a birthday with Janet Jackson, a gay icon in her own right. Are you a fan at all?
I like her, although I wouldn’t call myself a big fan. I think
- Who are some of your musical influences and heroes?
Wow! To answer that I'd have to write a book!
- What would you say is one of your biggest vices?
Well, true to my sign, I really love luxurious, material things. I have to say, from electronics to clothes to furniture, I’m going to need to eventually hit a huge lotto to cover my indulgences!
- One of your favorite shows is “Entourage;” which character would you say you most identify with?
I’m a little bit of all of them. Growing up in Brooklyn, I hung out with a million guys like them.
- Based on what you’ve read of Wayne Dyer’s teachings, what advice would you give to a recently de-closeted G Lounge newbie?
The world has put you exactly where you are supposed to be, when you are exactly supposed to be here. It’s all conspiring in your favor. Enjoy living it.
- How has G Lounge evolved since when you first started?
It’s such a great place that has a great amount of attention paid to detail. It consistently moves with the times, from decor to events, without sacrificing anything that originally made it a great place where people can come and have a good time.
- Have you ever had to deal with customers who were too aggressive or flirtatious?
People can be too flirtatious, but there is always a tactful way to handle that whenever a good laugh can be had.
- Being from Brooklyn, which borough do you think serves up the better slice? New York or Brooklyn?
Sorry, New York! But Brooklyn pizza is no joke!
- What theme night at G Lounge do you enjoy the most?
I really love Halloween. So much fun with all the hot costumes and debauchery!
- What cocktail would you recommend to G Lounge newbies?
G’s signature frozen cocktails are a MUST if you are a newbie! Or, anything I mix!
- If your personality were a cocktail, which one would you be?
Probably Patron, straight up–It’s forward and to the point. Just like me.