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Dean Ray entertains Stettler crowd

“My uncle was an Elvis impersonator, and that inspired me to learn many Elvis songs at a young age.”
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Dean Ray, right, performs at the West Stettler Park, as part of Entertainment in the Park, assisted by a community member on the tambourine. PHOTO BY JUDY WALGENBACH

On Wednesday, July 26, Dean Ray played for the first time in Stettler at the West Stettler Park, drawing a good crowd from the town and surrounding areas.

“I had a great evening with an awesome group of people ranging in all ages,” Ray said. “They participated with me by playing the conga drums and tambourine as I played songs ranging from country, rock and my own original numbers.”

Ray said that every town he plays in is different and special in their own ways.

“But Stettler is great as I also perform on the steam train a few times every summer,” Ray added. “I’m on the train three times here in August. Many people from all over Canada and from different countries come on the train, and I read the crowd on what they want to hear for music before playing some numbers. They can range from country, rock, blues, folk to some my own original ones, it depends.”

Ray’s music influences have been be Elvis Presley and CCR, while growing up.

“My uncle was an Elvis impersonator and that inspired me to learn many Elvis songs at a young age, around six I think, and I started playing music then,” Ray recalled. “Eventually, I got serious and started playing the guitar and singing around that time too. I created my first band at the age of 18, writing songs and performing at numerous venues, besides getting songs on the radio in both Canada and Europe.”

Ray added that musicians who want to make it big should start out by playing as many live shows as possible.

“They should write their own songs and get those out there, no matter what,” Ray said. “But, the main thing I would say is to have fun and a positive attitude.”

His website www.deanrayband.com has event information and other news associated with his releases and performances.

editor@stettlerindependent.com