Artwork for the Rich Soni Podcast

#37 Ray Salerno

Published:
Guests: Ray Salerno

Episode Overview

Ray Andrew Salerno is a transgender singer-songwriter in the Northeast New Jersey/New York area. He uses the stage name Jamie Fett and uses his music to talk about his experiences with his mental health, grief, and gender identity. His first album, "Headed For Somewhere" will be coming out later this year. He can be found playing his music at open mic nights and at shows for small local artists throughout the North Jersey area. In the fall, he will start a graduate program to begin pursuing a master's degree in Music Therapy.

Ray is also an Edgar Allan Poe super-fan, and the author of The Fall of the House of Edgar: A Tale of Poe, Wine, and Murder, a historical fiction novel which explores the premise of one Poe’s darkest works being based on a true story.

Timestamps

  • 00:00 - Introduction
  • 05:13 - Early Songwriting Experiences
  • 11:46 - Overcoming Self-Doubt
  • 17:56 - "Latuda" Origin Story
  • 26:55 - EP Recording Process
  • 32:46 - Ukuleles and Music Gear
  • 34:40 - Reflections on Creative Writing
  • 39:28 - Personal Identity Through Creativity
  • 44:27 - Upcoming Shows Announcement
  • 47:34 - Conclusion and Thank You