Scotty Wray was a talented musician and singer-songwriter whose work and contributions to the music industry left a lasting impact on fans and peers alike.
Tragically, his promising life and career were cut short, leaving many to reflect on the legacy he left behind.
In this article, we will explore the life and work of Scotty Wray and the circumstances surrounding his untimely death.
Who Was Scotty Wray?
Wray was most recognized in the country music field as a guitarist.
He was a member of The Wrays, an Oregon-based musical group he co-founded with his brother Collin Raye (aka Bubba Raye).
Wray was born in the Arkansas town of De Queen. Lois Wray, his mother, was also a singer-songwriter.
While Scotty Wray's actual age is unknown, he was thought to be in his mid to late 60s at the time of his death.
To focus on his health concerns, the late musician was forced to retire from touring. He'd been on the road with Lambert for almost 20 years.
Wray was Lambert's first band member on his path to stardom.
Lambert was 17 when they met in Greenville, Texas in 2001, and the rest is history.
Scotty Wray collaborated with Lambert on several songs, including I Wanna Die in 2005, Easy Living in 2011, and Gravity Is a Bitch in 2014.
Over the years, he has contributed to his brother's albums.
How Did Scotty Wray Die?
Scotty Wray died on Friday, February 18, 2022, after apparently battling heart troubles for several years.
His age at the time of his death is unknown. Lambert took to Instagram to express her heartbreak:
“I lost one of my most beloved friends, bandmates, and road family members last night.
On and off the stage, we shared so much of our lives. “After we got through some rough patches together, we wrote songs, played gig after gig fought, cried, laughed, and even got matching arrow tattoos,” Lambert wrote.
“He was one of the most talented guitarists I've ever known, and I'm grateful for the opportunity to witness his genius seasoned back blues man style on stages all over the world for over 20 years.”
I could always rely on him. Always. Whatever the case may be. “I felt like I could take on the world if he was on my right side,” she concluded.
“Scotty Wray was like family to me, and I'll never sing a note without knowing he's with me.” He has always been. My dear Bud Wray, I adore you.
Heaven is fortunate because the honky tonk band up there has gained another guitar pickin angel. Relax, my love.”
How Did Scotty Wray Rise to Fame?
The musical talent reportedly performed for musicians such as Elvis Presley and Johnny Cash in the 1950s.
Later, she embarked on a solo career, frequently bringing her sons to the stage to play alongside her.
At the time, the two brothers would provide their mother with harmonic background vocals.
Later, in the 1980s, the brothers made a professional debut in the music industry. Scotty Wray supposedly lived in Mount Juliet, Tennessee, according to his LinkedIn page.
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The late guitarist was also a member of the American Federation of Musicians' local branches.
One of his most recent notable collaborations was with Miranda Lambert and his brother's duet, Skars, which appeared on Collin Fraye's 2020 album.
Wray and Lambert collaborated on several tracks over the years.
They received similar arrow tattoos on their hands as well.
