Producer Aver Ray Makes Major Moves on Kanye West’s Latest Album “Vultures”

Billy Ray Schlag, known by his artist name Aver Ray, is making serious waves in the music scene. His journey exemplifies resilience and undeniable talent, with a recent highlight being his contributions as a producer on Kanye West’s album, Vultures, which was released on February 10th this year.

Kanye used Aver Ray’s samples in three tracks for Vultures, leading to his expertise being evident on several of Kanye’s key tracks, including the powerful anthem “Star,” the electrifying “Do It,” and the introspective “Beg Forgiveness.”

While West mainly handled production for the Vultures project, Aver Ray’s contribution saw him working alongside other landmark producers, including Digital Nas, the Legendary Traxster, 88-Keys, JPEGMafia, DJ Camper, Chrishan, Ojivolta, Anthony Kilhoffer, Timbaland, No I.D., Swizz Beatz, Wheezy, and others.

When looking back at this experience, Aver Ray says, “Being in the studio with legends like Ye, Traxster, 88Keys, JPEGMafia, and more just lifted me to another level, and I feel like I started producing just this year. Before, it was basically always just me, a piano, and my phone. Being part of the workflow of experienced musicians like this optimized my whole process and trained my ears about what is good and what ain’t.”

Aver Ray’s influence extends beyond this significant album, shaping the soundscape of the music industry while remaining a champion for social causes. “Musically, I am heavily inspired by people who managed to create a unique and fresh sound, especially if they use that sound to transmit a message,” he explains.

Built on raw creativity and genuine self-expression, Aver Ray’s artistic core is fueled by a desire to translate his emotions and experiences into impactful music. He acknowledges the challenges of navigating the industry but emphasizes the importance of trusting your instincts and staying true to your sound—a philosophy that propelled him forward in his successful career.

Reflecting on his path, Aver Ray observes that his greatest strides came when he prioritized his signature sound over fleeting trends. This commitment to genuineness is a breath of fresh air in an industry often chasing fads.

Beyond the music, Aver Ray recognizes the privilege of being a successful artist and embraces the responsibility that comes with it. He actively encourages his peers to leverage their platform to uplift others, a principle that drives his work with the non-profit music organization If a Bird, which he runs with his wife in Germany. Through this organization, Aver Ray creates a tangible positive impact, empowering marginalized youth and helping them discover their artistic potential.

More than just a charity, If a Bird fosters a space for mentorship and self-expression. He believes that inspiring others is the ultimate achievement and finds immense fulfillment in seeing these young talents blossom.

Aver Ray’s artistic journey is deeply intertwined with his values and activism. He sees his music as an extension of If a Bird’s mission, using his platform to advocate for equality and inclusivity. This synergy reflects his unwavering commitment to building a more just society.

Looking ahead, Aver Ray reflects on a life filled with rich experiences that fuel his art. His journey doesn’t have a defined destination, as it is a continuous exploration of growth. He values constant movement, emphasizing that forward momentum is key, regardless of the specific direction.

Aver Ray’s dedication to progress, authenticity, and social impact solidifies his position as a powerful force in the industry, as seen through his work on Kanye West’s latest album, Vultures. Through his music and activism, he is building a legacy that transcends beats and melodies. With a spirit of adventure, Aver Ray continues to carve his exceptional path in the world of music.