SOMERVILLE — Debo Ray’s performance at the Burren Backroom Series in Somerville was nothing short of electrifying. Stepping onto the stage with a presence that immediately commanded attention, Ray delivered a set that showcased not only her Grammy-nominated talent but also her deep-rooted passion for storytelling through music.
A proud Lynn Classical alumna, Ray’s journey from local choirs to the Grammy stage has been fueled by a relentless dedication to her craft. Before attending her live show, I immersed myself in her recently released self-titled album, Debo Ray. With ten tracks that each carried their own personality, the album was a testament to Ray’s ability to blend genres seamlessly while staying true to her R&B and jazz roots. Each song felt like a distinct chapter in a greater story—cohesive yet varied, thoughtful yet dynamic. Listening to the album, I never felt the need to skip a track; instead, I found myself eager to hear what direction she would take next. Watching Debo live, I felt the same creative unpredictability carry over to her live performance.
Ray’s live show amplified everything that made her recorded music compelling. Backed by a full band, she expanded on the energy of her studio work, adding new layers of improvisation, vocal textures, and spontaneous interactions with both her musicians and the audience. It wasn’t just a concert—it became an immersive experience, one that showcased her incredible vocal control and emotional depth.
One of the most striking aspects of Ray’s performance was her connection with the audience. Whether through powerful vocal runs, expressive gestures, or direct engagement between songs, she made the crowd feel like an essential part of the show. Her passion for storytelling was evident not just in her lyrics, but in the way she performed them—each song unfolding, rich with emotion and intent.
A particularly memorable moment came when she performed “Now You’re Here,” a heartfelt love song that, as she described in our conversation, captures the peace of finding the right person. “The story of what sparked our relationship and how it evolved,” she explained. “Being at peace within yourself because you found the person who you can also be at peace with.” Another highlight was her performance of “Gaslight,” which included a cleverly integrated sample from the 1944 film Gaslight.
Ray’s dedication to her craft is evident not just in her performances, but in her broader musical philosophy. When we spoke, she emphasized the importance of story—how she wants listeners to engage with the emotions embedded in her music. “Story, story, story is really big for me,” she said. “Whether you listen to the lyrics with the lyric sheet in front of you or you’re just taken on that sonic journey, I hope that people have a chance to sit with the story a little bit and dive deep into how that relates to them.”
An added bonus to the night was the opening act, Asmi Ederay, one of Ray’s students from Berklee College of Music. It was a fitting prelude to Ray’s own set, demonstrating the cycle of mentorship and artistry that she so strongly believes in.
Debo Ray’s show at the Burren was more than a display of vocal prowess—it was a masterclass in storytelling, musicality, and connection. With an album that already showcases her creativity and a live performance that takes it to the next level, Ray proves herself to be a force in contemporary music. Whether on record or on stage, she invites listeners on a journey—one that is emotionally resonant and undeniably powerful.
