Born on May 24, 1962, in Harlem. Attended Julia Richmond High School. He performed in a dance class there and later auditioned for Louis Falco, the choreographer for the film "Fame." Actually attended New York's High School of the Performing Arts for a year before being kicked out. He was therefore perfectly cast as Leroy in the film, which won Academy Awards for best song and original score. Like his character in the film, Ray had never had professional dance training but had an abundance of raw talent. In 1982 he toured Britain, to perform with other "Fame" cast members in 10 concerts. "The Kids From Fame," a television special about the tour, was broadcast in the United States a year later.