Ray Cash

Many assumed Ray Cash originated in the Deep South, given his rural slang, distinctive drawl, and sharp baritone delivery. In reality, the Cleveland, OH native had to carve out his own path while avoiding comparisons to the city’s sole prominent rap act, Bone Thugs-N-Harmony. Securing a contract proved difficult because executives viewed his hometown as lacking commercial appeal; nearly three years of persistent outreach finally resulted in his signing to Sony Urban and Columbia.

Born Wardell Raymond Cheeks, he spent his formative years on Cleveland’s east side in the neighborhood called “The Hill.” Rapping remained a casual pastime during that period, limited to casual freestyles over classmates pounding lunchroom tables in high school. That casual approach shifted after he witnessed Jay-Z’s performance in Cleveland on the Hard Knock Life tour, prompting a commitment to a professional career.

His initial singles, “Sex Appeal (Pimp in My Rhyme)” and “Smokin’ and Leanin’,” appeared in 2005 and received only modest regional rotation without broader traction. His debut album, Cash on Delivery, arrived in June 2006 and earned favorable notices from critics. The project included beats from Rockwilder and Rick Rock alongside guest appearances by rap veterans Scarface and Bun B of UGK.