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Reports from HPR's Dave Lawrence

HPR's All Things Considered: Special Guest Ray Parker Jr.

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Despite having a long career before and after the release of 1984's Ghostbusters, musician Ray Parker Jr. will likely forever be best known for writing the hit theme song from that film. Ahead of a two night run as part of Michael Lington's band at the Blue Note, the guitarist/vocalist/producer/actor spoke with HPR All Things Considered Host Dave Lawrence about a variety of critical life experiences. 

Ray is a great storyteller, and shared some of his many tales, including how his fateful introduction to the clarinet at age six began his lifelong musical journey. He also explained why he credits a bicycle accident with leading to advanced guitar skills at a young age, which in turn led to recording with Marvin Gaye at 15. A chance to be an extra in a Hollywood film led to more star connections, including with Richard Pryor. How he ended up recording on Stevie Wonder's classic Talking Book album is discussed, as is his relationship with the late Barry White, who stars in one of the funny stories he shared in this conversation that illustrates the power of early childhood exposures.

MORE RAY:

Hear the complete interview:

See the classic video from Ghostbusters:

Find more interviews and features from Dave Lawrence.

Dave Lawrence is the local host of All Things Considered, Road Stories (formerly Off the Road) and Stargazer.
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