Ray Mercifa: Bringing Real Hip-Hop Back, One Party at a Time

Ray Mercifa, better known as Dutch, is a musician from The Bronx, whose journey coincides with the life of hip-hop. He grew up in a family exposed to music because of their ties with the popular Disco Fever nightclub. Ray’s passion for music got engraved in his personality as he followed a path of resilience, creativity, and a deep love for making people dance.

Ray began his career in the early 1990s with the rap group Ruff Rugged and Raw. The music group had a hit song and movement in the industry, but some problems arose that halted further development and growth. Not giving up, Ray continued writing even through hard personal times: he spent some time in prison, writing new songs there. After being released, he became a single father and later dropped a mix CD with his newfound wife-not bad for a man whom many people had already written off and said he couldn’t produce hits anymore.

What makes Ray Mercifa special is his relentless pursuit of authenticity. Legally blind as an artist, he walks alone in this business and his music supports themes of joy and unity over violence. “I’m bringing Real Hip Hop back,” Ray said. “No more violence. I want everybody to feel good.”

Ray Mercifa has performed some iconic sets at college events like Freaknic, Greek Freak, and Jack the Rapper, not excluding his attendance at the very prestigious BET Brunch in 2022. Despite the harsh business side of the industry, he has managed to develop a business-like attitude toward his craft that brings in money from his music creations.

However, Ray Mercifa has big plans for the future. More than the music, he wants to leave behind something that will always be remembered by his children. Other plans include farming, real estate, and opening a nightclub to watch people dance to his tracks. “In five years, I see myself living in the country, thriving off the land, and continuing to inspire others,” Ray says.

The latter speaks of his core mission: to energize and uplift. His newest track “Go Crazy,” inspired by dance, is for party people and clubbers, bringing in the fun and positivity he believes the world needs. “Everybody party and stop stressing. Life is beautiful no matter what’s going on,” Ray urges.

For more information on Ray Mercifa, visit Hoodfameus.com, or look for him on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok as @Ray Mercifa. Stream his music below and let the beats remind you to dance, feel good, and live life.