Richie Ray, born Richard Maldonado Morales on February 15, 1945, in Brooklyn,
New York, United States, is an American pianist, singer, songwriter, and
arranger. Ray studied at the Juilliard School before leaving in 1963 to form his
own ensemble. Signing with Fonseca Records, Ray released his debut studio album,
Ricardo Ray Arrives/Comején, in 1965, featuring hit singles “Mambo Jazz” and
“Viva Richie Ray”. Switching to Alegre Records in 1966, Ray recorded nine albums
with the label and officially partnered with lead vocalist Bobby Cruz as Richie
Ray & Bobby Cruz. The duo produced ...