VICTOR, Idaho — At his core, Sugaray Rayford is a galvanizing uniter. His live shows are a party. And he’s bringing that party to Music on Main this Thursday.
Some conversations may be had, and some self-reflection may occur, but at the end of the day, people leave Rayford’s shows feeling a sense of joy and togetherness. He possesses a deep, powerful voice that embodies the raw emotions of the blues genre and he’s anchored by his commanding stage presence and soulful delivery.
Texas-born Caron “Sugaray” Rayford began his musical career at the age of 7 singing and playing drums in church, and his gospel influence can be heard and felt in his music. Rayford’s phrasing is intimate and conversational and the soulful gravel in his voice hints at his firsthand experience with hardship and the early loss of his mother.
Rayford’s musical journey explored various genres such as gospel, jazz and R&B. His influences range from blues legends like Muddy Waters to soul icons like Sam Cooke and Ray Charles. These diverse musical inspirations have shaped Rayford’s unique style, blending traditional blues with elements of funk, gospel and Southern soul.
Rayford’s switch to contemporary music began about 15 years ago in the San Diego area, where he sang lead vocals with an R&B/Funk band called Urban Gypsys. Suga realized that the blues were where his heart and soul belonged. After some soul searching, he left the Urban Gypsys and became lead vocalist for Aunt Kizzy’z Boyz, a Temecula-area blues band. Shortly after joining the band in 2004, they released their first CD Trunk Full of Bluez. This band was hungry and did over two hundred gigs a year over the next few years and their popularity rose exponentially.
After moving to Los Angeles several years ago, Sugaray was asked to host a blues jam at Cozy’s in Sherman Oaks. It is through this venue that Sugaray met and played with innumerable world-class musicians. Suga’s desire to explore and expand his musical vision has been nourished by these musicians. His solo career has flourished in LA.
One of the defining features of Rayford’s performances is his remarkable stage presence. He possesses an undeniable charisma that captivates audiences, drawing them into his world of soulful storytelling. Whether he’s belting out a blues ballad or amplifying a funk-infused track with his infectious energy, Rayford’s dynamic performances leave a lasting impression on anyone fortunate enough to witness them.
Openers Kitty and the Cruisers will get the night started. Pulled from the region’s finest pools of musicians, this rockabilly-based band creates energy and power with classic hits from the golden era of rock ‘n’ roll along with contemporary rockabilly, ’80s faves, rockin’ blues and originals. Featuring bassist Brett Blanchard, drummer Pete Closson, lead guitarist Anderson Safre, Kenny Gordon on keys/rhythm guitar and singer Kitty Royale.
This week’s raffle offers a night on the West Bank! Our friends at Corsa, Grand Teton Music Festival and The Bentwood Inn have put together a stylish raffle prize for a night out on the West Bank that includes two tickets to Grand Teton Music Festival, one night at The Bentwood Inn and a $200 gift certificate for dinner at Corsa located at Caldera House in Teton Village.
