Ray J

William Ray Norwood, Jr. (born January 17, 1981), known by his stage name Ray J, is an American singer, songwriter, record producer and actor. Born in McComb, Mississippi and raised in Carson, California, he is the brother of recording artist and actress Brandy Norwood and the first cousin of rapper Snoop Dogg.

Life and career

Early life

William Ray Norwood, Jr. was born in McComb, Mississippi to Willie Norwood and Sonja Bates-Norwood. His older sister Brandy is an award-winning, multi-platinum recording artist. Early in his life, he moved with his family from McComb, Mississippi to Los Angeles, California, and in 1989 started appearing in television commercials for different companies. In 1989, at the age of eight, Norwood began auditioning for and appearing in television commercials; he played the foster son in The Sinbad Show, from 1993 to 1994. This period in Norwood's life would shape his acting career. According to Bradley Torreano of allmusic, "his easygoing image and boyish looks appealed to the producers of Brandy's television show, Moesha, giving him a role on the UPN series as Dorian "D-Money", a role he played from 1999 until the show ended in 2001.

For the Love of Ray J

For the Love of Ray J is a dating show on VH1 featuring hip hop singer Ray J. The program has a format similar to Flavor of Love, I Love New York, and Rock of Love. In reference to the series, Ray J said:

The show ended right before the spin-off Family Business which stars Ray and his sister Brandy. Ray J is done with the show and called it "a learning experience."

Season 1

The show, which premiered on February 2, 2009, follows Ray J and a group of 14 female contestants. The winner was Cocktail (Joanna Hernandez).

Season 2

A second season premiered on November 2, 2009, with a group of 19 female contestants. The winner was 32 year-old Mz. Berry (Connie Deveaux).

Airing of the show

References