Photo courtesy of WolfieVibes Publicity
Portland, Oregon-based Redray Frazier made his first steps as a professional performer in 1989 as one-half of often overlooked pop/R&B duo The Brat Pack, which delivered a memorable cover of Ambrosia’s “You’re the Only Woman.” Several years later, he joined critically acclaimed quartet The Funky Poets, providing a sophisticated, retro-leaning brand of hip-hop soul with “Born in the Ghetto” and “Lessons Learned”—but commercial success was still elusive.
Portland, Oregon-based Redray Frazier made his first steps as a professional performer in 1989 as one-half of often overlooked pop/R&B duo The Brat Pack, which delivered a memorable cover of Ambrosia’s “You’re the Only Woman.” Several years later, he joined critically acclaimed quartet The Funky Poets, providing a sophisticated, retro-leaning brand of hip-hop soul with “Born in the Ghetto” and “Lessons Learned”—but commercial success was still elusive.
Over the last two decades, Frazier has released several independent sets while performing regularly in clubs and as a touring guitarist for the likes of David Byrne. Following a long recording hiatus, he recently completed a fresh single entitled “Better Man,” which incorporates his soul and rock influences in smooth and unassuming harmony. Enveloping the groove with a no-frills vocal that’s simultaneously sleek and edgy, he offers an understatedly stylized performance which has the potential to draw in enthusiasts of several music genres. He’s also released a sharp music video for the track, which complements its mood nicely.
Take a First Look at “Better Man” below, and give a long overdue welcome to Redray Frazier!
Redray Frazier - "Better Man"