A tough-sensitive singer-songwriter from northern Ontario, Ray Henderson combines the darkness of Johnny Cash, the storytelling of Kris Kristofferson with the gravitas of John Prine. Equal parts country, roots rock, blues and gospel, Henderson’s debut full-length album captures his lightning in a bottle.
Broke Down in Bala emerged from Toronto’s open mic scene where Henderson is a regular. Back in the ‘90s, he would drive down to the Free Times Cafe in Toronto every Monday from Muskoka. Returning in 2022, he met musician and producer Loren Davie who agreed to produce Broke Down in Bala, the first release on the Toronto-based epijam label. Now the world can hear Henderson’s music, poignant at times and raucous at others.
The focus track “Voice” came to Henderson in a dream. “I saw my lady across the water,” he explains. “She was looking for me and calling my name but couldn’t hear my reply. My voice was gone because…I guess I just didn’t fit in with the real musicians and naysayers… my own underconfidence. Then I met the positive lady in the song, so it was her belief in me that gave me strength and just kept me writing.”
Broke Down in Bala is the resurrection of 11 songs, inspired by lessons learned on the ride of life. Many were written up to 25 years ago, but Henderson had put them aside, not feeling confident in them. Then, in the summer of 2023, as he sat in the park with friends from the open mic scene, he dusted off some of his older material, and, encouraged by them, decided to give it another shot.
What can you share with readers about your new project?
This project is a result of meeting the right people at the right time, working with my friends we revived some of my old songs. It has been a very positive experience to work with people that believe in me.
How does this release compare with your other projects you had in the past?
Again, the essence of this album is the people that made it possible. Also a big part of what makes it special is the resurrection of my older songs. 11 songs on the album were revived just through jamming with friends. The first track on the album Wednesday Dawn is 29 years old this year.
What about this single makes you most proud?
I’m most proud of how the meaning this song held up over the years. The song is about finding your voice with the support of the ones you love. I wrote this song 24 years ago about a special lady and our love has kept growing ever since
Was there a specific goal you were trying to accomplish with this release?
Just to be able to leave a positive legacy behind. Plus it was a lot of fun to make!
What inspires you to create music? What motivates you to keep going?
The inspiration to create has always been in me as long as i can remember. Music to me has always been a therapy and a release. Once you let it out, your headspace is clear and your able to channel yor emotions into something positive.
If you could collaborate with anyone – dead or alive, famous or unknown – who would it be and why? If it’s an indie/DIY artist, please include a link so readers can check them out.
I would have to say the late John Prine. Because when I saw him on TV on the Flipp Wilson Show around 1970, it felt like something came out of the TV straight to my brain. An instant connection with the music. I have a lot of respect for his honesty and sense of humour as a songwriter.
What was the last song you listened to? Favorite all-time bands/artists?
The last song I listened to was Summers End by John Prine.
I like alot of the veteran song writers such as Johnny Cash, Kris Kristofferson, John Prine, Van Morrison, Willie Nelson, and Tom Cochrane.
Where is the best place to find you and stay connected?
You can find me on Instagram @rgzhenderon. You can also catch me live at Free times Cafe in Toronto, ON every Tuesday night.
I really appreciate your time. Is there anything you’d like to share before we sign off?
Thank you for your time please check out my new single “Voice” on YouTube and my new album “Broke Down In Bala” available on all streaming platforms.
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