BY Elaina J. Martin

Affectionately known as the “Reverend Doctor,” Neil Ray got the nickname when, after the fire, Paddy started to create the Church Entertainment Lounge and, when showing Ray, said to him, “Here, Reverend Doctor, here is your church.” Ray has been a part of the Paddy’s family since around 2011. He hosts Kilted Karaoke at Paddy’s on Wednesday nights at 10. Ray says, “It’s my job to make you sound good.” He enjoys Kilted Karaoke because he hears new voices and connects with friends every Wednesday night.

In addition to hosting karaoke at Paddy’s, Ray has been hosting the open mic night on Mondays at Coffee Scene here in Fayetteville for over 25 years. He feels it is his job to “motivate, encourage and inspire others—both the newbies and the skilled.” He has seen some patrons of the open mic night go on to do great things.

Perhaps most noteworthy is his passion for poetry. Ray is an avid poet. His first poem was published when he was in the 3rd grade. He prefers to write poems that don’t last for just a few days but for decades. He is a North Carolina Poetry Society member and oversaw the membership development committee from 1998-1999. In 1997 he published “Quests of the Plebeians.” In 2004, the same year that Paddy was also honored by Up & Coming Weekly, Ray was named “Poet of the Year” by the Fayetteville publication. In 2013 he used his smooth deep voice to record the CD Night Walker Chronicles Volume One titled “Hearts.” There were 20 tracks on the album, 17 of which were accompanied by music.

His love for and ability to play music came after his love of poetry, but is perhaps just as important. He helps people sing karaoke every week and encourages musicians at open mics. He is a percussionist and can be found jamming with other musicians around town at open mic events. Neil Ray brings so much light into the Fayetteville music and poetry scene – be sure to wish him the happiest of birthdays on November 20th.