North Carolina Music Hall of Fame architect Eddie Ray dies at 99
FRANKLIN, NC (WWAY) — Edward “Eddie” Ray, a pioneering music executive, songwriter, poet and key figure behind the North Carolina Music Hall of Fame, has died at the age of 99.
Ray passed away on June 21, according to the North Carolina Music Hall of Fame, which credited him with helping establish the organization and building its operational foundation after becoming its first executive director in 2009.
Born Dec. 21, 1926, in Franklin, North Carolina, Ray rose from humble beginnings to become one of the first African American senior executives at a major record label. Over a music industry career spanning more than six decades, he held executive leadership roles with M.G.M. Records, Imperial Records, Cream/Hi Records and Capitol Records.
Throughout his career, Ray worked with and helped promote a wide range of artists, including Fats Domino, Rick Nelson, Allen Toussaint, Sammy Davis Jr., The Osmonds, Donny & Marie Osmond, Lou Rawls, Hank Williams Jr., Al Green, Johnny Rivers and Irma Thomas. He also played a significant role in expanding the reach of artists such as Ray Charles and B.B. King.
Among his most notable accomplishments was helping introduce Pink Floyd to American audiences during his tenure at Capitol Records, a move that would contribute to the band’s rise as one of the most influential rock groups in music history.
Ray also left a lasting mark as a songwriter. His composition “Hearts of Stone” became a national hit and achieved crossover success on pop, R&B and country charts. The song was later recorded by more than 30 artists, including Elvis Presley, John Fogerty and The McGuire Sisters. Decades later, it gained renewed attention after being featured in the film “Goodfellas.”
Beyond the recording industry, Ray pursued a lifelong passion for writing. He authored the memoir “Against All Odds” and published five books of poetry, exploring themes of perseverance, creativity and the human experience.
His influence extended into public service as well. Appointed by President Ronald Reagan and confirmed by the U.S. Senate, Ray served for eight years on the U.S. Copyright Royalty Tribunal in Washington, D.C., including four years as chairman. During his tenure, he advocated for artists and creators navigating the evolving music business.
Ray also founded the Tennessee College of Recording Arts & Sciences, helping educate and mentor future generations of musicians and industry professionals.
For the North Carolina Music Hall of Fame, Ray’s impact was especially significant. Following his induction into the Hall of Fame in 2009, he was named the organization’s first executive director. Hall officials said he helped establish many of the partnerships, community relationships and operational structures that continue to support the museum today.
In a statement, the Hall of Fame described Ray as a visionary leader whose contributions to music, literature, public service and education touched countless lives.
He is remembered not only for his accomplishments in the music industry but also for his dedication to supporting artists, songwriters, students and cultural institutions throughout his lifetime.
Ray’s legacy lives on through the music he helped bring to audiences, the artists he championed and the institutions he helped build.
Additional information about Ray’s career is available through the North Carolina Music Hall of Fame.
