Meet Justin Gray | Songwriter, Music Producer, Composer, and Tech Entrepreneur

We had the good fortune of connecting with Justin Gray and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Justin, can you talk to us a bit about the social impact of your business?
Music is one of the most compelling memories we have. You remember where you were and how you felt when you heard a song. It’s the most powerful emotional trigger inside the human experience. None of this exists without out songwriters and artists. But with each day, these artists are finding it more and more difficult to build careers and make a living in the wake of rapid technological growth. Streaming killed “sales” but the argument was always…”once there is critical mass of users on any DSP, the numbers would add up.” The data is in. More music consumption than ever, and creators still have never seen the bump that was promised. I started a company called SonifyMUSIC.ai that leverages AI ethically, helping thos suffering artists and creators monetize their music by identifying licensing opportunities for Film, TV, Advertising, Record Labels, even creating new fandom, all while earning double what they would earn on Spotify, AppleMusic and even Amazon Music.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I have been extremely blessed to call music my life for more than 30 years as a creative professional. It has taken me all over the world in a way Ii could have never imagined when I began this journey. I have worked with iconic artists since the 90’s and still to this day, making life long friends along the way. Being from Canada originally, I had to learn and understand every aspect of music making from learning mu instruments, how to record, how to mix. Literally every aspect of creation…mainly because in Canada, recording budgets were tiny. I literally couldn’t afford to hire people. This skill set has allowed to me sit in any room and fill a needed role.

Our move to LA ultimately came, because I was traveling so much at the time. I was in London, Stockholm, Nashville, New York and LA, spending more time away than at home.

A major lesson in all of this was simply…YOU NEVER KNOW WHAT CAN HAPPEN. And in LA, everyday feels like day that life can change, lighting can strike, and magic can happen!

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I have to say!! I love the valley. I eat every meal here without ever leaving a 3 mile radius. Ideal foodie day would be breakfast at Nat’s Early Bite…one of the best diners anywhere. They have been cooking those eggs on that griddle for 50 years. Then for lunch I would order the #2 at Sushi Don…a tiny hole in the wall spot between Studio City and Valley Village, and finally dinner at BLVD. Amazing food and drinks, with a super fun atmosphere!

For clearing my head, hiking up Dixie Canyon.

I love all the hikes, but Dixie is just a bit more off the beaten path and quieter. Plus it’s great for dogs. AND I can see my house from the other side

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
Is it obvious to say my wife Daphne? Deciding to leave our families in Toronto 18 years ago to help me pursue my dreams in LA is something I appreciate every single day. Her selfless support has meant everything for me. She’s been my number one cheer leader in the good times…and my absolute rock in the dark times.

As a mentor, I have been very fortunate over the years from every single artist, label and manager I have worked with to this day. There is something to learn from every single person we interact with on a daily basis. Even if it’s patience. These relationships have shaped how I engage with someone creatively, artistically and emotionally

Website: https://www.iamjustingray.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamjustingray/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/iamjustingray/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/justin.gray.1217

Image Credits
Dan Franco