Ray Kirk: A Multicultural Music Prodigy
Ray Kirk’s musical journey is a fusion of cultures and influences. Born in Japan to a Korean-Japanese mother and a father who played drums for the iconic band the Commodores, Kirk was destined for a life steeped in music. His early exposure to the industry and his fascination with artists like Tupac ignited his passion for music.
At the age of 10, he began writing raps, adopting the stage name Young Kirk. By 14, he was part of a rap duo, performing across Japan and selling his music wherever he could. At 17, he and his crew were signed to Columbia Music Japan, with their debut album “No Limit” ranking 4th in the country. Their second album, “Icekream” EP, hit #1 on Japanese Hip Hop and RnB iTunes.
Ray Kirk’s music found its way into sports arenas, becoming the entrance music for World Champion Pro Boxer Kazuto Ioka. He shared the stage with renowned Japanese artists like Ryuichi Sakamoto and Verbal from m-flo.
Venturing into television, Ray Kirk became an MC for Fuji TV’s popular variety quiz show “Brain Renewal Update Q! Smart Monkeys.” His journey eventually led him to the U.S., where he performed in New York and Atlanta before settling in Los Angeles. In 2019, he officially adopted the name Ray Kirk and co-founded the record label Lemon Soda Music with DJ DANTZ. The label signed with Ingrooves in May 2020, marking a new chapter in his music career.
DANTZ: A Global DJ and Producer
DANTZ, hailing from Japan and now based in Los Angeles, is a prominent DJ and producer known for his electrifying performances worldwide. He has headlined festivals and clubs in over 10 countries, spanning the U.S., Europe, Africa, and Asia. Notably, he graced the stage at ULTRA MUSIC FESTIVAL EUROPE, one of the world’s largest dance music festivals.
His journey also led him to establish his record label, “Lemon Soda Music,” in Los Angeles. DANTZ made his major label debut with Universal Music Group in the U.S., solidifying his position as an artist who connects the Asian music scene with the global music scene.
Together, Ray Kirk and DANTZ are a musical force to be reckoned with, breaking cultural barriers and setting the stage for a new era of global music collaboration.
