Ray Chew, the acclaimed music director known for his work on “Dancing with the Stars,” “American Idol,” and “Showtime at the Apollo,” is set to make waves again with his upcoming single, “Jam.”
The track features an all-star lineup, including R&B powerhouse Stephanie Mills, pioneering rapper MC Lyte, and hip-hop legend Doug E. Fresh. Chew’s influence has shaped everything from live TV performances to the orchestration of the Grammy Awards.
Now, he’s adding another dynamic collaboration to his extensive list of credits.
Chew is set to return for his 10th season as music director of “Dancing with the Stars,” where he oversees one of television’s most intricate live productions. He said the show’s success relies on seamless coordination between his band, choreographers, and production staff to ensure every performance runs smoothly.
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With live music tailored to each dance routine and a fast-paced schedule, Chew believes the production is a testament to precise planning and teamwork, making it one of the most challenging yet rewarding projects in live entertainment.
“And we are live on the air when we do the show,” said Chew. “One of the few productions to do the show and air it live. It’s a lot of fun.”
Chew credits his success as a musical director on “Dancing with the Stars” to growing up with a wide range of musical styles. He said this versatility allows him to tailor music to every dance, elevating the show’s overall impact.
Chew described his upbringing as a “genre-less environment.” “My musical education, studies, and experiences included everything… I’m listening to every kind of music, and that’s been in my blood… Growing up in New York, I had to play everything, too,” he said.
Chew also credits his mentors for shaping his career by exposing him to a variety of music venues, from Broadway pits to intimate jazz clubs. These experiences deepened his appreciation for both the precision of theater and the spontaneity of jazz, enhancing his versatility as a musician and musical director.
“They instilled in me a sense of, ‘Yes, you better be great at your craft, and study up, study up, study up, but also be ready when that call comes, and it’s your time,’” said Chew.
Chew explained that his dedication to music started at a very young age, with countless hours of study and practice helping him master his craft. His mentors also emphasized that success requires more than just technical proficiency.
Chew said they stressed the importance of developing practical, transferable skills like communication, people skills, and effective networking, noting that these abilities are often what open doors and create lasting opportunities in a competitive field.
“So, at sixteen, I was ready,” said Chew.
Chew’s focus on well-rounded skills and versatility is reflected in his upcoming musical projects, including his latest single, “Jam,” from his forthcoming album “My Journey.” The release showcases his ability to blend different genres and styles, highlighting the breadth of his musical experiences and the influence of his diverse background.
Chew shared that the inspiration for his upcoming album, “My Journey,” came from a deeply personal and spiritual experience. He described feeling touched by God in what he considered a celestial moment that made him pause and reflect.
Chew said the message he received was clear: while he had been doing wonderful things for others, it was time to focus on himself and his own creative path. This realization became the driving force behind the album, which explores his personal and musical growth.
“I just started writing songs, and as I started [writing], I really enjoyed this body of work,” said Chew. “I was inspired by my friend and mentor Quincy Jones—by how he would bring artists together and present them. I like how he presented veteran artists… but he also presented new artists.”
The first track to be released from Chew’s upcoming album “My Journey” is titled “Jam.”
Chew wanted Stephanie Mills to be a part of “Jam” because he felt her powerful voice perfectly fit the song’s vibe. He also brought in MC Lyte and Doug E. Fresh, knowing their energy would elevate the track and bring the party atmosphere he envisioned.
“Those are my fellow New Yorkers,” said Chew. “They’re all New Yorkers.”
Chew reached out to each of them personally by phone, mentioning that he prefers direct conversations over texting when collaborating on a project.
Other collaborators on “My Journey” include Kid Capri, Lisa Fischer, Marcus Miller, Patti Austin, Robin Thicke, Syleena Johnson, and more.
“And I have two new artists that nobody has ever heard of,” said Chew. “I’m really excited about ‘My Journey’ and telling the story of the scope of my musical life.”
