About Ed Hayes Ray
Frederick Edward Ray (known artistically as Ed Hayes Ray) is a multi-talented actor, songwriter, music publisher, and record producer. Born on July 24, 1978, in Brooklyn, New York, Ray’s artistic roots began with childhood stage productions in NYC before he moved to North Carolina, graduating from Union Pines High School in 1998.
Inspired by the pioneering sounds of Run-DMC and the independent blueprint of Master P, Ray studied Sound Recording at Columbus State Community College. This foundational knowledge led him to launch his own independent record label, Ed Hayes Ent. (formerly RT Productions), through which he has distributed 5 underground hip-hop singles.
Driven by a lifelong passion for storytelling, Ray is made his official feature film debut at age 46. Beyond his creative pursuits in music and film—which include writing, producing, and performing original short scripts—Ray is a dedicated community leader. He served his community as a firefighter for ten years and remains an active church member in Sandford, North Carolina. He is also an entrepreneur, serving as the CEO and Founder of Merchz By Ray LLC, where he is currently launching his signature clothing line, "The ED HAYES Brand™."
Ray credits his resilience to the steadfast support of his parents. He dedicates his career and creative journey to the Lord, his wife of 27 years, and their three wonderful children & grandchild, who remain his ultimate sources of inspiration.
Meet Mr. Frederick Edward Hayes-Ray
(also known as Little Fred, Ed Hayes Ray, Freddie Ray)
CARTHAGE, NC — Veteran community servant, music producer, and entrepreneur Frederick Edward Ray is officially stepping into the cinematic spotlight. Operating under the artistic moniker Ed Hayes Ray, Ray is channeling a lifetime of creative passion into his upcoming feature film debut.
Born in Brooklyn, New York, and raised in North Carolina, Ray’s diverse background spans over two decades of creative and civic service. After studying Sound Recording at Columbus State Community College, he established Ed Hayes Ent., an independent label that has successfully navigated the underground hip-hop scene with more than 200 single releases. His entrepreneurial drive also extends into fashion as the CEO of Merchz By Ray LLC, the parent company of his new apparel line, "The ED HAYES Brand™."
In addition to his corporate and musical success, Ray spent a decade serving his community as a local firefighter. Now focusing on his acting career, Ray writes original short scripts and actively advocates for fellow emerging artists. His journey is fueled by his faith, the foundational support of his parents, and a 27-year marriage that has blessed him with three children.
Press Release
