Russell Ray grew up in Galena Park, Texas. In tenth grade
at Galena Park High School, he became a member of an elite school pop band
called, "The Group". This sparked Russ and fellow "Group"
member, Greg Gilley to pick up the guitars in an attempt to further their
musical interest. By the twelfth grade, Russ was not only singing in "The
Group" but was playing bass as well. He and Greg went on to form a
rock band called "RokBergade".
It
shouldn't surprise you to know that being in the same band as Greg Gilley
would give you a good excuse to spend your spare time at "Gilley's Club"
in Pasadena. This gave Russ exposure to a host of country music superhero's
with the list being topped by Mickey Gilley. The Rok Bergade endeavor produced
an album with a number of tunes CO-written by Russ. The band played locally
throughout the Houston area with the likes of Molly Hatchet. Despite many
efforts by the band, by the late 80's Rok Bergade had disbanded.
Disheartened
by the Rok Bergade breakup, Russ put up the guitar and decided to attend the
Police Academy. After working near Fort Worth, he ended up in Sugar Land,
Texas as a Police Detective working major crimes. With the music buried inside
of him, it was just a matter of time before he came back to his senses and
back to his true love, MUSIC! |
