Johnnie Ray

Biography

Johnnie Ray was a pioneering American singer, songwriter, and pianist who rose to fame in the 1950s with his jazz and blues-influenced music. Born partially deaf, he began singing professionally at age 15 on Portland radio stations and gained a local following in Detroit, where he was discovered in 1949. Ray's breakthrough came with the release of his debut album "Johnnie Ray" in 1952, followed by a starring role in the 1954 film "There's No Business Like Show Business".