The promising neo-soul singer Arin Ray looks toward the future with his warm R&B ballads that transcend generations. • The Cincinnati native is from a musical family. His father drummed for groups like New Edition, and his aunt sang backup for Marvin Gaye. • He got his big break in 2012 while competing on the second season of The X Factor, where he came in 10th place after being mentored by Britney Spears. • After five years of writing hits for artists like Nicki Minaj, John Legend, Young Thug, and Jeremih, he was offered a solo deal with Interscope Records. • Following the 2016 EP Phases, Ray released his full-length debut, Platinum Fire, in 2018. The album features Ty Dolla $ign, DRAM, and YG. • His 2019 Phases II EP includes a collaboration with Kehlani called “Change.”