Ray West, is a name that resonates through various fields such as sound engineering, photojournalism, and as the father of the iconic rapper Kanye West. His multifaceted career and personal life have both intrigued and inspired many.
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Table of Contents
Who Is Ray West?
Ray West, born on August 28, 1949, is notably recognized for his contributions as one of the first black photojournalists at The Atlanta Journal-Constitution and his impactful work with figures such as Maya Angelou and Ronald Reagan. Beyond his photography career, he was actively involved in the Black Panther Party during the 1960s and 70s, and later founded a Christian bookshop in Maryland in 2006, called The Good Water Store and Cafe, which supports community initiatives and global water projects.
How is Ray’s relationship with Kanye?
Ray West’s relationship with his son Kanye has evolved significantly over the years. After his divorce from Kanye’s mother, Donda, in 1980, Kanye lived with his mother but maintained contact with Ray, visiting him during summers in Washington DC. Despite Kanye’s close bond with his mother until her death, he recognized Ray as his best friend in his 2019 “Follow God” music video, highlighting a deep and meaningful relationship.
Even amidst contentious moments, such as Kanye’s public claim at a 2020 presidential campaign rally that Ray had considered aborting him, the bond between father and son remains strong, as evidenced by Ray’s expressions of concern for Kanye in the “jeen-yuhs” Netflix documentary and Kanye’s acknowledgment of making his father proud with controversial actions like wearing a White Lives Matter T-shirt in 2022.
What does Kanye say about Ray in his music?
In Kanye West’s music, he often reflects on his complex relationship with his father, Ray West. His track “Champion” from the 2007 album “Graduation” reveals Ray’s creative yet unpredictable efforts to provide for his family, highlighting the seasonal plans he concocted to make money and how these influenced Kanye’s upbringing. Additionally, in the track “Father Stretch My Hands,” Kanye delves into the more tumultuous aspects of their relationship, expressing moments of conflict and misunderstanding that underscore the challenges they have navigated together.
Is Kanye West’s father still alive?
Kanye West’s father, Ray West, is still alive and currently resides in the Dominican Republic, where he runs the Good Foundation charity. In July 2018, it was reported that Ray had been diagnosed with prostate cancer and was undergoing treatment in Los Angeles, with sources indicating that he was responding well to the treatment. The situation has been particularly challenging for Kanye, who values the support of his family, including his wife Kim Kardashian West and their children, during such difficult times.
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Conclusion
Ray West’s life story is one of diversity, resilience, and influence. From his early days in the Civil Rights Movement to his later years as a philanthropist and father, his journey is a reflection of the many roles he played – each contributing to his legacy.
FAQs about Ray West
- What was Ray’s primary profession?
Ray West was primarily a photojournalist and later a Christian counselor. - How did Ray contribute to the community in his later years?
He opened a Christian bookshop and cafe, with proceeds supporting various charitable causes. - What was Ray West’s involvement in the Civil Rights Movement?
He was an active member of the Black Panther Party and participated in civil rights activism. - How did Ray West influence Kanye West’s music?
Ray’s life experiences and relationship with Kanye deeply influenced Kanye’s musical themes and personal development. - What is a notable achievement of Ray West in his career?
He won an Academy Award for Best Sound for his work on “Star Wars Episode IV: A New Hope.”
