Ray Gaskins (born Raeford Earl Gaskins Jr.) was an American saxophonist, vocalist, and keyboardist renowned for his contributions to soul jazz and smooth jazz.
Born on August 4, 1959, in Baltimore, Maryland, he passed away on January 20, 2022, at the age of 62 due to early-onset dementia.
Raised in a musical family—his first cousin was singer Jocelyn Brown, and his aunt was vocalist Barbara Roy—Gaskins began singing in church at six, started playing the clarinet at nine, and took up the saxophone around sixteen. After serving six years in the U.S. Navy, he ventured into writing dance and house music, achieving four consecutive Billboard/Cashbox charted hits.
He later moved to New York City, where he formed local bands and performed in clubs. Gaskins toured with Gordon Edwards’ band Stuff and joined Phyllis Hyman’s band on her final two tours.
He also collaborated with Roy Ayers, participating in four world tours. As a solo artist, Gaskins released several albums, including “Soul Crusade” (1994), “Can’t Stop,” and “A Night in the Life” (2009), which features collaborations with Roy Ayers and Jocelyn Brown.
His rendition of Gershwin’s “Summertime” gained significant popularity in the UK, topping charts for over six months.