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	{{Short description\|American ~~R&B~~ singer (born 1981)}}		{{Short description\|American singer (born 1981)}}
	{{pp-vandalism\|small=yes}}		{{pp-vandalism\|small=yes}}
	{{Use mdy dates\|date=June 2013}}		{{Use mdy dates\|date=June 2013}}
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	\| spouse = {{marriage\|Princess Love\|2016}}		\| spouse = {{marriage\|Princess Love\|2016}}
	\| partner = ] (2002–2006)		\| partner = ] (2002–2006)
			\| works = {{hlist\|]\|]}}
	\| children = 2		\| children = 2
	\| father = ]		\| father = ]
	\| relatives = ] (sister~~)<br />] (cousin)<br />] (cousin~~)		\| relatives = ] (sister)
	\| occupation = {{flatlist\|		\| occupation = {{flatlist\|
	* Singer		* Singer
	* songwriter		* songwriter
			* rapper
			* television presenter
	* actor		* actor
	* television personality
	* entrepreneur		* entrepreneur
	}}		}}
	\| television = {{~~flatlist~~\|		\| television = {{plainlist\|
	* '']''		* '']''
	* '']''		* '']''
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	* ]		* ]
	* ]		* ]
	}}
	\| associated_acts = {{flatlist\|
	* ]
	* ]
	* ]
	* ]
	* ]
	* ]
	* ]
	}}		}}
	}}		}}
	}}		}}

	'''William Ray Norwood Jr.''' (born January 17, 1981),<ref name="allmusic">{{cite web \|last=Torreano \|first=Bradley \|title=Ray J – Biography \|work=Allmusic \|url={{AllMusic\|class=artist\|id=ray-j-mn0000405142\|pure_url=yes}} \|access-date=December 5, 2008}}</ref> known professionally as '''Ray J''', is an American ] singer. Born in ], and raised in ], he is the younger brother of singer and actress ] and the first cousin of rapper ].<ref>{{cite web \|url=http://herdsay.com/ray-j/ \|title=Ray J, Biography \|publisher=HERDsay.com \|access-date=September 29, 2014}}</ref> ~~In January 2017, he competed in the ] of the British reality television series '']''.~~		'''William Ray Norwood Jr.''' (born January 17, 1981),<ref name="allmusic">{{cite web \|last=Torreano \|first=Bradley \|title=Ray J – Biography \|work=Allmusic \|url={{AllMusic\|class=artist\|id=ray-j-mn0000405142\|pure_url=yes}} \|access-date=December 5, 2008}}</ref> known professionally as '''Ray J''', is an American ] singer, songwriter, television presenter, and actor. Born in ] and raised in ], he is the younger brother of singer and actress ].<ref>{{cite web \|url=http://herdsay.com/ray-j/ \|title=Ray J, Biography \|publisher=HERDsay.com \|access-date=September 29, 2014}}</ref>

			Ray J's 1997 debut single, "]", was released by ] for the soundtrack to the ] film, '']''. Both moderate hits, the song peaked within the top 40 of the ] and additionally served as lead single for Ray J's debut studio album, '']'' (1997), which entered the ] chart. He then signed with ] to release his second album, '']'' (2002). Led by his second top 40 single, "]" (featuring ]), the album became his first to enter the ]–at number 21. His 2005 single, "]", peaked at number 11 on the ''Billboard'' Hot 100 and preceded his third album, '']'' (2005), which commercially trailed the success of both the song and his previous album. The albums were each met with mixed critical reception.

			In 2007, he co-starred in the controversial adult film, '']'', opposite then-relatively unknown actress ]. This foresaw the release of his fourth album, '']'' (2008), which was critically panned, but yielded his furthest commercial success at number seven on the ''Billboard'' 200, also spawning his highest-charting single, "]" (featuring ]), which peaked at number three on the ''Billboard'' Hot 100. Released independently, his 2013 single, "]" (featuring ]), peaked at number 51 on the chart, providing a brief period of resurgence as it discomfited his previous affair with Kardashian.

			In January 2017, he competed in the ] of the British reality television series '']''. In his entrepreneurial career, he launched the technology company ] in 2016, as well as the Raycon line of direct-to-consumer ] in 2017.<ref>{{Cite web\|url= https://www.blackenterprise.com/ray-j-financial-hardships-tronix-network/amp/\|title=RAY J REVEALS FINANCIAL HARDSHIPS WHILE LAUNCHING HIS TRONIX TELEVISION NETWORK\|website=Blackenterprise.com\|date=March 29, 2024 }}</ref>

	==Early life==		==Early life==
	William Ray Norwood Jr. was born on January 17, 1981, in ], to ] and Sonja Bates-Norwood. His older sister ] is a multi-platinum recording artist. Early in his life, he moved with his family from McComb to ~~], 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 '']'', from 1993 to 1994. This period in Norwood's life would shape his acting career. According to Bradley Torreano of ], "his easygoing image and boyish looks appealed to the producers of Brandy's television show, '']'', giving him a role on the ] series as Dorian "D-Money", a role he played from 1999 until the show ended in 2001.		William Ray Norwood Jr. was born on January 17, 1981, in ], to ] and Sonja Bates-Norwood. His older sister ] is a multi-platinum recording artist. Early in his life, he moved with his family from McComb to Los Angeles, 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 '']'', from 1993 to 1994. This period in Norwood's life would shape his acting career. According to Bradley Torreano of ], "his easygoing image and boyish looks appealed to the producers of Brandy's television show, '']'', giving him a role on the ] series as Dorian "D-Money", a role he played from 1999 until the show ended in 2001.

	==Career==		==Career==
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	After a two-year break, Norwood returned to recording studios, adding the finishing touches on his third studio album '']'' with help from producers such as ], ], ], and Rob Egerton. A joint venture by ] and Ray-J's own label, independent ], the album was finally released on September 27, 2005, in North America after several delays, debuting at number forty-eight on the ''Billboard'' 200 chart, selling 18,321 copies in the first week. The album's lead single "]" was a top 20 success in the US, UK, Ireland, and New Zealand. ''Raydiation'' eventually sold over 400,000 copies domestically.<ref name="one">{{cite web \|title=R&B Singer Ray J Readies 2008 Release of ''All I Feel'' \|work=Singersroom \|url=http://www.singersroom.com/news/entertainment-story-1329.asp \|access-date=January 9, 2008 \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110716073852/http://www.singersroom.com/news/entertainment-story-1329.asp \|archive-date=July 16, 2011 \|url-status=dead \|df=mdy-all }}</ref>		After a two-year break, Norwood returned to recording studios, adding the finishing touches on his third studio album '']'' with help from producers such as ], ], ], and Rob Egerton. A joint venture by ] and Ray-J's own label, independent ], the album was finally released on September 27, 2005, in North America after several delays, debuting at number forty-eight on the ''Billboard'' 200 chart, selling 18,321 copies in the first week. The album's lead single "]" was a top 20 success in the US, UK, Ireland, and New Zealand. ''Raydiation'' eventually sold over 400,000 copies domestically.<ref name="one">{{cite web \|title=R&B Singer Ray J Readies 2008 Release of ''All I Feel'' \|work=Singersroom \|url=http://www.singersroom.com/news/entertainment-story-1329.asp \|access-date=January 9, 2008 \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110716073852/http://www.singersroom.com/news/entertainment-story-1329.asp \|archive-date=July 16, 2011 \|url-status=dead \|df=mdy-all }}</ref>

	In 2005, Norwood joined the cast of ]'s '']'',<ref>{{cite web \|title=UPN Adds Five Fresh New Faces To Ensemble Comedy "One On One" This Fall \|url=http://www.thefutoncritic.com/news.aspx?id=20050809upn01 \|access-date=March 10, 2007}}</ref> where he played the character D-Mack for the final season. On both shows, Ray's character was related to Brandy's (cousin/half-brother on ''Moesha'', brother on ''One on One'').		In 2005, Norwood joined the cast of ]'s '']'',<ref>{{cite web \|title=UPN Adds Five Fresh New Faces To Ensemble Comedy "One On One" This Fall \|url=http://www.thefutoncritic.com/news.aspx?id=20050809upn01 \|access-date=March 10, 2007}}</ref> where he played the character D-Mack for the final season. On both shows, Ray's character was related to Brandy's (cousin/half-brother on ''Moesha'', brother on ''One on One'').

	===2007–11: Sex tape, ''All I Feel'', and ''A Family Business''===		===2007–11: Sex tape, ''All I Feel'', and ''A Family Business''===
	In February 2007, a ] he made with former girlfriend ] in 2003, '']'', was made public.<ref>{{cite press release\|url= http://www.hiphoppress.com/2007/02/vivid_entertain.html\|title= Vivid Entertainment Spends $1-Million To Acquire Notorious Video 'Starring' Sexy Socialite Kim Kardashian And Hip Hop Star Ray J\|access-date= October 6, 2008\|publisher= ]\|date= February 7, 2007\|via= Hip Hop Press\|url-status= dead\|archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20080923231924/http://www.hiphoppress.com/2007/02/vivid_entertain.html\|archive-date= September 23, 2008\|df= mdy-all}}</ref> Kardashian sued ] for ownership of the tape. In late April 2007, Kardashian dropped the suit and ] with Vivid Entertainment for $5 million.<ref>{{cite web \| url=https://www.standard.co.uk/showbiz/kim-kardashian-s-sex-tape-sees-sales-surge-since-announcing-pregnancy-8435909.html \| title=Kim Kardashian's sex tape sees sales surge since announcing pregnancy \| date=January 2, 2013 }}</ref>		In February 2007, a ] he made with former girlfriend ] in 2003, '']'', was made public.<ref>{{cite press release\|url= http://www.hiphoppress.com/2007/02/vivid_entertain.html\|title= Vivid Entertainment Spends $1-Million To Acquire Notorious Video 'Starring' Sexy Socialite Kim Kardashian And Hip Hop Star Ray J\|access-date= October 6, 2008\|publisher= ]\|date= February 7, 2007\|via= Hip Hop Press\|url-status= dead\|archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20080923231924/http://www.hiphoppress.com/2007/02/vivid_entertain.html\|archive-date= September 23, 2008\|df= mdy-all}}</ref> Kardashian sued ] for ownership of the tape. In late April 2007, Kardashian dropped the suit and ] with Vivid Entertainment for $5 million.<ref>{{cite web \| url=https://www.standard.co.uk/showbiz/kim-kardashian-s-sex-tape-sees-sales-surge-since-announcing-pregnancy-8435909.html \| title=Kim Kardashian's sex tape sees sales surge since announcing pregnancy \| date=January 2, 2013 }}</ref>

	] announced a multimillion-dollar album deal with ] and ]'s "Deja 34" entertainment company.<ref name="one" /> The first album for this deal is Ray J's fourth album ''All I Feel'', which features ] and ] among others. It was released on April 1, 2008.<ref> {{webarchive \|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080219174009/http://www.hhworlds.com/f11/12-12-07-ray-j-signs-w-koch-taps-snoop-game-lil-wayne-new-lp-9896.html \|title=12/12/07 – Ray J. Signs W/ Koch, Taps Snoop, Game, Lil' Wayne For New LP \|date=February 19, 2008 \|publisher=hhworlds.com}}</ref> The album's first single is "]" featuring rapper ] peaked at number three on the Top Singles (Hot 100) for six weeks. A video for the track, directed by R. Malcolm Jones, was shot in December 2007.<ref name="one" /> J ~~stars~~ in the Black Christmas movie '']'' under the direction from ].<ref>{{cite web\|url=https://www.bloody-disgusting.com/news/18244\|title='Chain Letter' Director Plans Holiday Horror with 'Dark Christmas'\|date=December 2009\|publisher=Bloody-disgusting.com\|access-date=December 13, 2012}}</ref>		] announced a multimillion-dollar album deal with ] and ]'s "Deja 34" entertainment company.<ref name="one" /> The first album for this deal is Ray J's fourth album ''All I Feel'', which features ] and ] among others. It was released on April 1, 2008.<ref> {{webarchive\|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080219174009/http://www.hhworlds.com/f11/12-12-07-ray-j-signs-w-koch-taps-snoop-game-lil-wayne-new-lp-9896.html\|title=12/12/07 – Ray J. Signs W/ Koch, Taps Snoop, Game, Lil' Wayne For New LP\|date=February 19, 2008\|publisher=hhworlds.com}}</ref> The album's first single is "]" featuring rapper ] peaked at number three on the Top Singles (Hot 100) for six weeks. A video for the track, directed by R. Malcolm Jones, was shot in December 2007.<ref name="one" /> J starred in the Black Christmas movie ''Dark Christmas'' under the direction from ].<ref>{{cite web\|url=https://www.bloody-disgusting.com/news/18244\|title='Chain Letter' Director Plans Holiday Horror with 'Dark Christmas'\|date=December 2009\|publisher=Bloody-disgusting.com\|access-date=December 13, 2012}}</ref>

	In 2009, Norwood starred in his own ] reality dating show, '']''. The show premiered on February 2, 2009. For his show on March 24, 2009, he released the soundtrack/studio album called ''For ~~The~~ Love Of Ray J''. On November 2, 2009, the show's ] premiered. In 2010, Norwood and his sister ] premiered the ] reality series '']'' along with their parents. The show debuted in April 2010 and chronicled the backstage happenings of both siblings, while taking a bigger role in their family's management and production company, R&B Productions.<ref>{{cite web\|url=http://www.rap-up.com/2010/02/03/brandy-ray-j-to-star-with-family-in-vh1-reality-series/\|title=Brandy & Ray J to Star with Family in VH1 Reality Series\|publisher=Rap-up.com\|access-date=September 16, 2016}}</ref>		In 2009, Norwood starred in his own ] reality dating show, '']''. The show premiered on February 2, 2009. For his show on March 24, 2009, he released the soundtrack/studio album called ''For the Love of Ray J''. On November 2, 2009, the show's ] premiered. In 2010, Norwood and his sister ] premiered the ] reality series '']'' along with their parents. The show debuted in April 2010 and chronicled the backstage happenings of both siblings, while taking a bigger role in their family's management and production company, R&B Productions.<ref>{{cite web\|url=http://www.rap-up.com/2010/02/03/brandy-ray-j-to-star-with-family-in-vh1-reality-series/\|title=Brandy & Ray J to Star with Family in VH1 Reality Series\|publisher=Rap-up.com\|access-date=September 16, 2016}}</ref>

	On June 19, 2011, Ray J, along with his sister Brandy and his father Willie Norwood Sr., released '']'', which serves as a soundtrack to their hit reality TV show, '']'', and was released through ].<ref>{{cite web\|url=http://feedlimmy.com/2011/04/25/brandy-and-ray-j-a-family-business-album-tracklisting-and-details/ \|title=Brandy and Ray J "A Family Business" Album Tracklisting and Details \|publisher=Feed Limmy \|date=April 25, 2011 \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150521034342/http://feedlimmy.com/2011/04/25/brandy-and-ray-j-a-family-business-album-tracklisting-and-details\|archive-date=May 21, 2015\|url-status=dead\|access-date=April 4, 2016}}</ref> He released a single from the album called "Turnin' Me On". The song will be featured on his upcoming album as well.		On June 19, 2011, Ray J, along with his sister Brandy and his father Willie Norwood Sr., released '']'', which serves as a soundtrack to their hit reality TV show, '']'', and was released through ].<ref>{{cite web\|url=http://feedlimmy.com/2011/04/25/brandy-and-ray-j-a-family-business-album-tracklisting-and-details/ \|title=Brandy and Ray J "A Family Business" Album Tracklisting and Details \|publisher=Feed Limmy \|date=April 25, 2011 \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150521034342/http://feedlimmy.com/2011/04/25/brandy-and-ray-j-a-family-business-album-tracklisting-and-details\|archive-date=May 21, 2015\|url-status=dead\|access-date=April 4, 2016}}</ref> He released a single from the album called "Turnin' Me On". The song will be featured on his upcoming album as well.

	===2012: Death of Whitney Houston===		===2012: Death of Whitney Houston===
	On February 11, 2012, ] died of "accidental drowning", as ruled by the coroner. Ray J was in San Diego when she died<ref name=DailyBeastWhitneyHouston /> and arrived at the Beverly Hilton, where Houston died, at the time paramedics and police officers came to the scene. While waiting for more information, he became angered upon hearing one of the officers make a "disrespectful comment" about Houston, prompting him to force entry into the suite prior to being restrained.<ref>{{cite news\|url=http://www.contactmusic.com/article/ray-j-angry-after-cops-lewd-remarks-whitney-houston_3873286\|title=Ray J Angry After Cops Lewd Remarks About Whitney Houston\|date=September 19, 2013\|publisher=Contactmusic.com\|first=Lauren\|last=James}}</ref> Though he initially did not publicly address her death, Ray J broke his silence on February 17, 2012, when he told ''US Weekly'' that while the "world had lost an icon", he had lost a "close friend".<ref>{{cite news\|url=http://www.usmagazine.com/celebrity-news/news/ray-j-breaks-silence-on-whitney-houstons-death-2012172\|title=Ray J Breaks Silence on Whitney Houston's Death\|date=February 17, 2012\|publisher=US Weekly\|first=Zach\|last=Johnson}}</ref> Ray J's sister Brandy described him at the time of Houston's death as being "very distraught" and "disconnected" as well as referring to it as "a very hard time in his life."<ref>{{cite news\|url=http://www.singersroom.com/content/2014-08-04/Brandy-Talks-Ray-J-and-Whitney-Houston-Car-Accident-on-Where-Are-They-Now/\|title=Brandy Talks Ray J and Whitney Houston, Car Accident on 'Where Are They Now\|date=August 4, 2014\|publisher=Singersroom}}</ref>		On February 11, 2012, ] died of "accidental drowning", as ruled by the coroner. Ray J was in San Diego when she died<ref name=DailyBeastWhitneyHouston /> and arrived at the Beverly Hilton, where Houston died, at the time paramedics and police officers came to the scene. While waiting for more information, he became angered upon hearing one of the officers make a "disrespectful comment" about Houston, prompting him to force entry into the suite prior to being restrained.<ref>{{cite news\|url=http://www.contactmusic.com/article/ray-j-angry-after-cops-lewd-remarks-whitney-houston_3873286\|title=Ray J Angry After Cops Lewd Remarks About Whitney Houston\|date=September 19, 2013\|publisher=Contactmusic.com\|first=Lauren\|last=James}}</ref> Though he initially did not publicly address her death, Ray J broke his silence on February 17, 2012, when he told ''US Weekly'' that while the "world had lost an icon", he had lost a "close friend".<ref>{{cite news\|url=http://www.usmagazine.com/celebrity-news/news/ray-j-breaks-silence-on-whitney-houstons-death-2012172\|title=Ray J Breaks Silence on Whitney Houston's Death\|date=February 17, 2012\|publisher=US Weekly\|first=Zach\|last=Johnson}}</ref> Ray J's sister Brandy described him at the time of Houston's death as being "very distraught" and "disconnected" as well as referring to it as "a very hard time in his life."<ref>{{cite news\|url=http://www.singersroom.com/content/2014-08-04/Brandy-Talks-Ray-J-and-Whitney-Houston-Car-Accident-on-Where-Are-They-Now/\|title=Brandy Talks Ray J and Whitney Houston, Car Accident on 'Where Are They Now\|date=August 4, 2014\|publisher=Singersroom}}</ref>

	Ray J and Houston became very close in the last years of her life, leading to speculation of a romantic relationship between the singers.<ref>{{cite news\|url=http://hiphollywood.com/2014/07/exclusive-ray-j-on-whitney-biopic-thats-a-real-touchy-subject/\|title=Exclusive: Ray J's Take On The Whitney Houston Biopic\|date=July 16, 2014\|publisher=HipHollywood\|first=Vanessa\|last=Barnett}}</ref> However, Ray J stated that he and Houston were friends, and that they had never dated.<ref name=DailyBeastWhitneyHouston>{{cite news\|url=http://www.thedailybeast.com/articles/2012/02/23/whitney-houston-s-final-romance-was-ray-j-using-her-for-reality-tv.html\|publisher=The Daily Beast\|title=Whitney Houston's Final Romance: Was Ray J Using Her for Reality TV?\|date=February 23, 2012}}</ref> On May 21, 2012, Ray J was found in his hotel room, unable to get out of bed and was rushed to a hospital by ambulance. The day before, he was said to have had a confrontation at the 2012 Billboard Music Awards when Whitney Houston's sister-in-law Pat Houston called security on him when she saw Ray J was seated next to ], Whitney's daughter.<ref>{{cite news\|url=http://www.zap2it.com/blogs/whitney_houstons_family_ray_j_clash_at_billboard_music_awards_report-2012-05\|first=Rick\|last=Porter\|title=Whitney Houston's family, Ray J clash at Billboard Music Awards: Report\|publisher=Zap2it\|date=May 21, 2012}}</ref> Ray J went to the Beverly Hilton on August 1, 2012, for a panel during the TVOne portion of the 2012 Summer Television Critics Association tour. It was his first time there since Houston's death.<ref>{{cite news\|url=http://perezhilton.com/2012-08-02-ray-j-returns-to-whitney-houston-hotel#.VCC7Byj7X-Y\|title=Ray J Returns To The Hotel Where His Ex-Girlfriend Whitney Houston Died\|publisher=PerezHilton.com\|date=August 2, 2012}}</ref>		Ray J and Houston became very close in the last years of her life, leading to speculation of a romantic relationship between the singers.<ref>{{cite news\|url=http://hiphollywood.com/2014/07/exclusive-ray-j-on-whitney-biopic-thats-a-real-touchy-subject/\|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140720182121/http://hiphollywood.com/2014/07/exclusive-ray-j-on-whitney-biopic-thats-a-real-touchy-subject/\|url-status=dead\|archive-date=July 20, 2014\|title=Exclusive: Ray J's Take On The Whitney Houston Biopic\|date=July 16, 2014\|publisher=HipHollywood\|first=Vanessa\|last=Barnett}}</ref> However, Ray J stated that he and Houston were friends, and that they had never dated.<ref name=DailyBeastWhitneyHouston>{{cite news\|url=http://www.thedailybeast.com/articles/2012/02/23/whitney-houston-s-final-romance-was-ray-j-using-her-for-reality-tv.html\|publisher=The Daily Beast\|title=Whitney Houston's Final Romance: Was Ray J Using Her for Reality TV?\|date=February 23, 2012}}</ref> On May 21, 2012, Ray J was found in his hotel room, unable to get out of bed and was rushed to a hospital by ambulance. The day before, he was said to have had a confrontation at the 2012 Billboard Music Awards when Whitney Houston's sister-in-law Pat Houston called security on him when she saw Ray J was seated next to ], Whitney's daughter.<ref>{{cite news\|url=http://www.zap2it.com/blogs/whitney_houstons_family_ray_j_clash_at_billboard_music_awards_report-2012-05\|first=Rick\|last=Porter\|title=Whitney Houston's family, Ray J clash at Billboard Music Awards: Report\|publisher=Zap2it\|date=May 21, 2012\|access-date=August 13, 2014\|archive-date=August 14, 2014\|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140814070752/http://www.zap2it.com/blogs/whitney_houstons_family_ray_j_clash_at_billboard_music_awards_report-2012-05\|url-status=dead}}</ref> Ray J went to the Beverly Hilton on August 1, 2012, for a panel during the TVOne portion of the 2012 Summer Television Critics Association tour. It was his first time there since Houston's death.<ref>{{cite news\|url=http://perezhilton.com/2012-08-02-ray-j-returns-to-whitney-houston-hotel#.VCC7Byj7X-Y\|title=Ray J Returns To The Hotel Where His Ex-Girlfriend Whitney Houston Died\|publisher=PerezHilton.com\|date=August 2, 2012\|access-date=September 23, 2014\|archive-date=November 29, 2014\|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141129161954/http://perezhilton.com/2012-08-02-ray-j-returns-to-whitney-houston-hotel#.VCC7Byj7X-Y\|url-status=dead}}</ref>

	===2013–present: Reality TV and new music===		===2013–present: Reality TV and new music===
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	On January 3, 2017, Ray J took part as a "new star" housemate on ] of '']''.<ref>{{cite web\|url=http://www.metro.co.uk/2017/01/03/who-is-ray-j-everything-you-need-to-know-about-the-celebrity-big-brother-2017-housemate/\|title=Who is Ray J? Everything you need to know about the Celebrity Big Brother 2017 housemate\|first=Jon\|last=O'Brien\|date=January 3, 2017\|access-date=April 13, 2017}}{{Dead link\|date=March 2019 \|bot=InternetArchiveBot \|fix-attempted=yes }}</ref> He walked off the show after a week.<ref>{{cite tweet\|user=bbuk\|author=Big Brother UK\|number=818939538856878083\|date=January 10, 2017\|title=Ray J has left the Celebrity Big Brother House #CBB}}</ref> He also threatened legal action after his exit from the show.<ref>{{cite news\|url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/newsbeat/article/38579995/ray-j-threatens-legal-action-against-celebrity-big-brother-after-leaving-house\|title=Ray J threatens legal action against Celebrity Big Brother after leaving house\|work=BBC News\|date=January 11, 2017\|access-date=April 13, 2017}}</ref>		On January 3, 2017, Ray J took part as a "new star" housemate on ] of '']''.<ref>{{cite web\|url=http://www.metro.co.uk/2017/01/03/who-is-ray-j-everything-you-need-to-know-about-the-celebrity-big-brother-2017-housemate/\|title=Who is Ray J? Everything you need to know about the Celebrity Big Brother 2017 housemate\|first=Jon\|last=O'Brien\|date=January 3, 2017\|access-date=April 13, 2017}}{{Dead link\|date=March 2019 \|bot=InternetArchiveBot \|fix-attempted=yes }}</ref> He walked off the show after a week.<ref>{{cite tweet\|user=bbuk\|author=Big Brother UK\|number=818939538856878083\|date=January 10, 2017\|title=Ray J has left the Celebrity Big Brother House #CBB}}</ref> He also threatened legal action after his exit from the show.<ref>{{cite news\|url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/newsbeat/article/38579995/ray-j-threatens-legal-action-against-celebrity-big-brother-after-leaving-house\|title=Ray J threatens legal action against Celebrity Big Brother after leaving house\|work=BBC News\|date=January 11, 2017\|access-date=April 13, 2017}}</ref>

	On March 15, 2020, Ray J and Princess Love took part in '']'' on ].<ref>{{Cite web\|url=https://zeus.vhx.tv/videos/the-conversation-ray-j-princess-love-1\|title=The Conversation: Ray J & Princess Love Part 1\|website=Zeus\|language=en\|access-date=2020-03-24}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web\|url=https://www.bet.com/~~celebrities~~/~~news~~/~~2020/03/19/ray-j~~-princess-love-~~the~~-~~conversation.html?cid=facebook~~\|title=Watch Princess Love Confront Ray J About 'Strippers and Prostitutes' In 'The Conversation'\|website=BET.com\|access-date=2020-03-24}}</ref><ref>{{cite web\|url=https://bckonline.com/2020/03/02/princess-love-celebrates-sons-2-month-old-milestone-announces-new-zeus-network-series-with-ray-j/\|title=Princess Love Celebrates Son's 2-Month Old Milestone, Announces New Zeus Network Series With Ray J\|date=March 2, 2020\|access-date=August 5, 2020}}</ref> In May 2020, Love filed for divorce.<ref name="Rosenbaum">{{cite web\|url=https://www.billboard.com/amp/articles/business/legal-and-management/9374408/princess-love-files-for-divorce-from-ray-j\|title=Princess Love Files For Divorce From Ray J\|date=May 8, 2020\|last=Rosenbaum\|first=Claudia\|website=Billboard.com}}</ref>		On March 15, 2020, Ray J and Princess Love took part in '']'' on ].<ref>{{Cite web\|url=https://zeus.vhx.tv/videos/the-conversation-ray-j-princess-love-1\|title=The Conversation: Ray J & Princess Love Part 1\|website=Zeus\|language=en\|access-date=2020-03-24}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web\|url=https://www.bet.com/article/t6rkma/watch-princess-love-confront-ray-j-about-strippers\|title=Watch Princess Love Confront Ray J About 'Strippers and Prostitutes' In 'The Conversation'\|website=BET.com\|access-date=2020-03-24}}</ref><ref>{{cite web\|url=https://bckonline.com/2020/03/02/princess-love-celebrates-sons-2-month-old-milestone-announces-new-zeus-network-series-with-ray-j/\|title=Princess Love Celebrates Son's 2-Month Old Milestone, Announces New Zeus Network Series With Ray J\|date=March 2, 2020\|access-date=August 5, 2020}}</ref> In May 2020, Love filed for divorce.<ref name="Rosenbaum">{{cite web\|url=https://www.billboard.com/amp/articles/business/legal-and-management/9374408/princess-love-files-for-divorce-from-ray-j\|title=Princess Love Files For Divorce From Ray J\|date=May 8, 2020\|last=Rosenbaum\|first=Claudia\|website=Billboard.com}}</ref>

	==Other ventures ==		== Other ventures ==
	=== Technology companies ===		=== Technology companies ===
	;Raytroniks Inc.		;Raytroniks Inc.
	As the founder of Raytroniks, Ray J introduced a line of consumer electronics to the United States market.<ref>{{cite news\|last1=Simmons\|first1=Darrell\|title=Rapper Ray J Set to Open First East Coast Location of Raytroniks in Hoboken\|url=https://jerseydigs.com/ray-j-raytroniks-256-newark-street-hoboken/\|access-date=May 17, 2018\|work=Jersey Diggs\|date=June 20, 2016}}</ref> The product categories included electric bikes, smartphone fans, and smartwatches. In particular, the Scoot-E-Bike brand which Ray J developed grew exponentially after implementing a viral organic marketing strategy. Ray J secured product placements through celebrities such as ], ]~~, ], ], ], ], ],~~ and professional athletic teams, including the ] and ].<ref>{{cite web\|title=Raycon Scoot E-bike Celebrity Highlight\|url=https://vimeo.com/251867052\|website=Vimeo\|publisher=Raycon\|access-date=May 22, 2018}}</ref><ref>{{cite news\|last1=Olenski\|first1=Steve\|title=Brands, Branding And Celebrities\|url=https://www.forbes.com/sites/steveolenski/2018/04/02/brands-branding-and-celebrities/#4e6a78fd4db9\|access-date=May 22, 2018\|work=Forbes\|date=April 2, 2018}}</ref>		As the founder of Raytroniks, Ray J introduced a line of consumer electronics to the United States market.<ref>{{cite news\|last1=Simmons\|first1=Darrell\|title=Rapper Ray J Set to Open First East Coast Location of Raytroniks in Hoboken\|url=https://jerseydigs.com/ray-j-raytroniks-256-newark-street-hoboken/\|access-date=May 17, 2018\|work=Jersey Diggs\|date=June 20, 2016}}</ref> The product categories included electric bikes, smartphone fans, and smartwatches. In particular, the Scoot-E-Bike brand which Ray J developed grew exponentially after implementing a viral organic marketing strategy. Ray J secured product placements through celebrities such as ] and ] and professional athletic teams, including the ].<ref>{{cite web\|title=Raycon Scoot E-bike Celebrity Highlight\|url=https://vimeo.com/251867052\|website=Vimeo\|publisher=Raycon\|access-date=May 22, 2018}}</ref><ref>{{cite news\|last1=Olenski\|first1=Steve\|title=Brands, Branding And Celebrities\|url=https://www.forbes.com/sites/steveolenski/2018/04/02/brands-branding-and-celebrities/#4e6a78fd4db9\|access-date=May 22, 2018\|work=Forbes\|date=April 2, 2018}}</ref>

	;Raycon Inc.		;Raycon Inc.
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	==Politics==		==Politics==
	He, alongside ], attended the premiere of conservative commentator ]'s documentary ''The Greatest Lie Ever Sold'', a film investigating ] financial controversies.<ref>{{cite web \| url=https://www.yahoo.com/lifestyle/weird-ray-j-joined-kanye-173500623.html?guccounter=1&guce_referrer=aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuYmluZy5jb20v&guce_referrer_sig=AQAAAJ00v9Ht5YpUKvlzZjXB8alnzucQiPTDW9kFUH8iEhJyG0WQy2PrLP9jy2LwxGpT0QbHihUqv5F6SuP9lZutLr1xSChSet6MbItNM5uluCXt0VcGymjoqxYgw9fOiM2932yw-Hoqyp3o4XQudAUFWTVKoXxDXdmcw3Xc_q9l-qi3 \| title=This is Weird: Ray J. Joined Kanye and Candace Owens at "BLM" Doc Screening \| date=October 13, 2022 }}</ref> Owens had been a longstanding supporter of Ray J's allegations against the Kardashians regarding ~~him~~ and Kim's sex tape.<ref>{{cite web \| url=https://www.newsweek.com/candace-owens-calls-kris-jenner-pimp-over-satanic-kim-kardashian-ray-j-sex-tape-1743201 \| title=Candace Owens Calls Kris Jenner a 'Pimp' over 'Satanic' Kardashian Sex Tape \| website=] \| date=September 15, 2022 }}</ref>		He, alongside ], attended the premiere of conservative commentator ]'s documentary ''The Greatest Lie Ever Sold'', a film investigating ] financial controversies.<ref>{{cite web \| url=https://www.yahoo.com/lifestyle/weird-ray-j-joined-kanye-173500623.html?guccounter=1&guce_referrer=aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuYmluZy5jb20v&guce_referrer_sig=AQAAAJ00v9Ht5YpUKvlzZjXB8alnzucQiPTDW9kFUH8iEhJyG0WQy2PrLP9jy2LwxGpT0QbHihUqv5F6SuP9lZutLr1xSChSet6MbItNM5uluCXt0VcGymjoqxYgw9fOiM2932yw-Hoqyp3o4XQudAUFWTVKoXxDXdmcw3Xc_q9l-qi3 \| title=This is Weird: Ray J. Joined Kanye and Candace Owens at "BLM" Doc Screening \| date=October 13, 2022 }}</ref> Owens had been a longstanding supporter of Ray J's allegations against the Kardashians regarding his and Kim's sex tape.<ref>{{cite web \| url=https://www.newsweek.com/candace-owens-calls-kris-jenner-pimp-over-satanic-kim-kardashian-ray-j-sex-tape-1743201 \| title=Candace Owens Calls Kris Jenner a 'Pimp' over 'Satanic' Kardashian Sex Tape \| website=] \| date=September 15, 2022 }}</ref>

	In January 2022, Ray J visited ] at his ] residence to discuss job creation. Ray J went on to say " always admired and respected business ~~acumen…job~~ creation, encouraging small business development and how ] plays an important role in the future of our economy." ~~Ray~~ J ~~has~~ ~~yet~~ to ~~officially~~ ~~endorse~~ ~~any~~ ~~candidate~~ or ~~display~~ a ~~political stance~~.<ref>{{cite web \| url=https://thesource.com/2022/01/31/ray-j-defends-meeting-with-donald-trump-ive-always-admired-respected-his-business-acumen/ \| title=Ray J Defends Meeting with Donald Trump: "I've Always Admired & Respected His Business Acumen" \| date=January 31, 2022 }}</ref>		In January 2022, Ray J visited ] at his ] residence to discuss job creation. Ray J went on to say, "I've always admired and respected business acumen... job creation, encouraging small business development and how ] plays an important role in the future of our economy." Despite not endorsing a candidate, Ray J has intimated his support for Trump.<ref>{{cite web \| url=https://thesource.com/2022/01/31/ray-j-defends-meeting-with-donald-trump-ive-always-admired-respected-his-business-acumen/ \| title=Ray J Defends Meeting with Donald Trump: "I've Always Admired & Respected His Business Acumen" \| date=January 31, 2022 }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web\|url= https://thatgrapejuice.net/2024/11/ray-j-celebrates-donald-trump-election-victory-with-amber-rose-rocks-maga-hat/?amp\|title= Ray J Celebrates Donald Trump Election Victory with Amber Rose, Rocks MAGA Hat}}</ref>

	==Legal issues==		==Legal issues==
	On September 17, 2011, ] ] about Ray J playing his song "One Wish" on a piano inside ]'s house during a documentary on Mayweather and Victor Ortiz. Ray J confronted Fabolous in Las Vegas just before he was set to take stage at the Palms Casino and is alleged to have punched him in the face. He was arrested following the incident and in an interview with Power 105.1's The Breakfast Club, he explained why he took offense to Fabolous's tweets, stating that he played on the piano "every day" and referred to Mayweather as his "big brother" since the pair grew up together. Ray J demanded an on-air apology from Fabolous and threatened him, stating that he would "smack" him again.<ref>{{cite news\|url= http://theboombox.com/ray-j-assaults-fabolous-over-twitter-comments/\|title=Ray J Assaults Fabolous Over Twitter Comments\|date=September 19, 2011\|publisher=The Boombox\|first=Georgette\|last=Cline}}</ref> A number of celebrities were present during the incident, including ], Mayweather and ].<ref>{{cite news\|url=http://rapfix.mtv.com/2011/09/19/fabolous-ray-j-fight-in-las-vegas/\|title=Fabolous And Ray J Clash In Las Vegas\|publisher=MTV RAPFIX\|date=September 19, 2011}}</ref> Three years later Ray J took full responsibility for the incident. He acknowledged that he had learned from the experience and felt terrible about it as well. According to Ray J, he went through a time of deep depression following the encounter, all the while trying to figure out what led him to act out the way he did and "how can I now grow and be better?"<ref>{{cite news\|url=https://www.huffingtonpost.com/2014/09/16/ray-j-fabolous-breakfast-club_n_5831416.html\|title=Ray J Takes 'Full Blame' For Rant Against Fabolous On 'The Breakfast Club'\|date=September 16, 2014\|work=The Huffington Post\|first=Chris\|last=Branch}}</ref>		On September 17, 2011, ] ] about Ray J playing his song "One Wish" on a piano inside ]'s house during a documentary on Mayweather and Victor Ortiz. Ray J confronted Fabolous in Las Vegas just before he was set to take stage at the Palms Casino and is alleged to have punched him in the face. He was arrested following the incident and in an interview with Power 105.1's The Breakfast Club, he explained why he took offense to Fabolous's tweets, stating that he played on the piano "every day" and referred to Mayweather as his "big brother" since the pair grew up together. Ray J demanded an on-air apology from Fabolous and threatened him, stating that he would "smack" him again.<ref>{{cite news\|url= http://theboombox.com/ray-j-assaults-fabolous-over-twitter-comments/\|title=Ray J Assaults Fabolous Over Twitter Comments\|date=September 19, 2011\|publisher=The Boombox\|first=Georgette\|last=Cline}}</ref> A number of celebrities were present during the incident, including ], Mayweather and ].<ref>{{cite news\|url=http://rapfix.mtv.com/2011/09/19/fabolous-ray-j-fight-in-las-vegas/\|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110923154600/http://rapfix.mtv.com/2011/09/19/fabolous-ray-j-fight-in-las-vegas/\|url-status=dead\|archive-date=September 23, 2011\|title=Fabolous And Ray J Clash In Las Vegas\|publisher=MTV RAPFIX\|date=September 19, 2011}}</ref> Three years later Ray J took full responsibility for the incident. He acknowledged that he had learned from the experience and felt terrible about it as well. According to Ray J, he went through a time of deep depression following the encounter, all the while trying to figure out what led him to act out the way he did and "how can I now grow and be better?"<ref>{{cite news\|url=https://www.huffingtonpost.com/2014/09/16/ray-j-fabolous-breakfast-club_n_5831416.html\|title=Ray J Takes 'Full Blame' For Rant Against Fabolous On 'The Breakfast Club'\|date=September 16, 2014\|work=The Huffington Post\|first=Chris\|last=Branch}}</ref>

	On May 30, 2014, Ray J was at a bar of the ] in ] when a woman accused him of inappropriately touching her posterior. Police were called and deemed the touching incidental but he was asked to leave by the hotel staff. Ray J became angered because he contends he spent tens of thousands of dollars at the hotel over the last year. At some point, he allegedly became belligerent and according to the police, spat at an officer and kicked out a police car window in the process of being arrested. The charges against him included vandalism, resisting arrest and battery against a police officer. Ray J posted $20,000 bail and was released.<ref>{{cite web\|url=https://abcnews.go.com/Entertainment/wireStory/singer-ray-arrested-beverly-hills-hotel-23942573\|title=Entertainment Index\|work=ABC News\|access-date=September 16, 2016}}</ref><ref>{{cite web\|url=http://www.nbclosangeles.com/news/local/Ray-J-Arrested-at-Beverly-Hills-Hotel-261346231.html\|title=Singer Ray J Out on Bail After Arrest at Beverly Hills Hotel\|date=May 31, 2014 \|access-date=September 16, 2016}}</ref><ref>{{cite web\|url=https://www.tmz.com/2014/05/30/ray-j-arrested-beverly-wilshire-hotel-beverly-hills/\|title=Ray J ARRESTED -- Allegedly Spit on Cops \|access-date=September 16, 2016}}</ref><ref>{{cite web\|url=http://losangeles.cbslocal.com/2014/05/31/singer-ray-j-arrested-for-allegedly-getting-belligerent-at-beverly-hills-hotel/\|title=Singer Ray J Arrested For Allegedly Getting Belligerent At Beverly Hills Hotel\|date=May 31, 2014\|access-date=September 16, 2016}}</ref><ref>{{cite web\|url=http://www.upi.com/Entertainment_News/2014/05/31/Ray-J-arrested-in-Beverly-Hills-scuffle/6921401591342/\|title=Ray J arrested in Beverly Hills scuffle\|access-date=September 16, 2016}}</ref><ref>{{cite web\|url=https://www.tmz.com/2014/06/02/ray-j-cops-beverly-wilshire-hotel-beverly-hills-arrest-spitting/\|title=Ray J -- Claustrophobia Made Me Kick Out Cop Car Window\|access-date=September 16, 2016}}</ref> The Los Angeles County district attorney on July 21, 2014, filed charges against Ray J and a police spokesman said his initial hearing would take place on July 25.<ref>{{cite news\|url=http://www.ksat.com/content/pns/ksat/news/2014/07/22/ent-ray-j-norwood-charges.html\|title=Singer Ray J Norwood charged with sexual battery, vandalism, resisting arrest\|date=July 22, 2014\|publisher=KSAT\|first=Alan\|last=Dukes\|access-date=July 24, 2014\|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140812103722/http://www.ksat.com/content/pns/ksat/news/2014/07/22/ent-ray-j-norwood-charges.html\|archive-date=August 12, 2014\|url-status=dead\|df=mdy-all}}</ref>		On May 30, 2014, Ray J was at a bar of the ] in ] when a woman accused him of inappropriately touching her posterior. Police were called and deemed the touching incidental but he was asked to leave by the hotel staff. Ray J became angered because he contends he spent tens of thousands of dollars at the hotel over the last year. At some point, he allegedly became belligerent and according to the police, spat at an officer and kicked out a police car window in the process of being arrested. The charges against him included vandalism, resisting arrest and battery against a police officer. Ray J posted $20,000 bail and was released.<ref>{{cite web\|url=https://abcnews.go.com/Entertainment/wireStory/singer-ray-arrested-beverly-hills-hotel-23942573\|title=Entertainment Index\|work=ABC News\|access-date=September 16, 2016}}</ref><ref>{{cite web\|url=http://www.nbclosangeles.com/news/local/Ray-J-Arrested-at-Beverly-Hills-Hotel-261346231.html\|title=Singer Ray J Out on Bail After Arrest at Beverly Hills Hotel\|date=May 31, 2014 \|access-date=September 16, 2016}}</ref><ref>{{cite web\|url=https://www.tmz.com/2014/05/30/ray-j-arrested-beverly-wilshire-hotel-beverly-hills/\|title=Ray J ARRESTED -- Allegedly Spit on Cops \|date=May 31, 2014 \|access-date=September 16, 2016}}</ref><ref>{{cite web\|url=http://losangeles.cbslocal.com/2014/05/31/singer-ray-j-arrested-for-allegedly-getting-belligerent-at-beverly-hills-hotel/\|title=Singer Ray J Arrested For Allegedly Getting Belligerent At Beverly Hills Hotel\|date=May 31, 2014\|access-date=September 16, 2016}}</ref><ref>{{cite web\|url=http://www.upi.com/Entertainment_News/2014/05/31/Ray-J-arrested-in-Beverly-Hills-scuffle/6921401591342/\|title=Ray J arrested in Beverly Hills scuffle\|access-date=September 16, 2016}}</ref><ref>{{cite web\|url=https://www.tmz.com/2014/06/02/ray-j-cops-beverly-wilshire-hotel-beverly-hills-arrest-spitting/\|title=Ray J -- Claustrophobia Made Me Kick Out Cop Car Window\|date=June 2, 2014 \|access-date=September 16, 2016}}</ref> The Los Angeles County district attorney on July 21, 2014, filed charges against Ray J and a police spokesman said his initial hearing would take place on July 25.<ref>{{cite news\|url=http://www.ksat.com/content/pns/ksat/news/2014/07/22/ent-ray-j-norwood-charges.html\|title=Singer Ray J Norwood charged with sexual battery, vandalism, resisting arrest\|date=July 22, 2014\|publisher=KSAT\|first=Alan\|last=Dukes\|access-date=July 24, 2014\|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140812103722/http://www.ksat.com/content/pns/ksat/news/2014/07/22/ent-ray-j-norwood-charges.html\|archive-date=August 12, 2014\|url-status=dead\|df=mdy-all}}</ref>

	On July 22, 2014, prosecutors stated the arrest had turned into four criminal charges. He was charged with sexual battery, vandalism of a police car, battery against a police officer and resisting arrest. They claimed he willfully touched the woman's "intimate part" for the "specific purpose of sexual arousal, sexual gratification and sexual abuse."<ref>{{cite news\|url=http://www.nydailynews.com/entertainment/gossip/ray-hit-10-charges-stemming-night-beverly-hills-hotel-report-article-1.1875220#ixzz38Kq0DjnZ\|title=Ray J hit with 4 charges stemming from boozy May night at Beverly Hills hotel\|date=July 22, 2014\|work=New York Daily News}}</ref><ref>{{cite news\|url=http://www.cnn.com/2014/07/22/showbiz/ray-j-norwood-charges/\|first=Alan\|last=Duke\|title=Singer Ray J Norwood charged with sexual battery, vandalism, resisting arrest\|publisher=CNN\|date=July 22, 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite news\|url=~~http~~://www.bet.com/~~news~~/~~celebrities/2014/07/22~~/ray-j-charged-with-ten-crimes-by-~~los-angeles~~-district-attorney~~.html~~\|title=Ray J Charged With Ten Crimes by Los Angeles District Attorney\|date=July 22, 2014\|first=Evelyn\|last=Diaz\|publisher=BET}}</ref><ref>{{cite news\|url= http://hollywoodlife.com/2014/07/21/ray-j-charged-sexual-battery-charges-arrest/\|title=Ray J Charged With Sexual Battery After Alleged 'Butt-Grabbing' Arrest\|date=July 21, 2014\|publisher=Hollywood Life}}</ref> On August 19, Ray J pleaded not guilty to the misdemeanor charges.<ref>{{cite news\|url=http://www.wetpaint.com/love-and-hip-hop-atlanta/articles/2014-08-21-ray-j-enters-not-guilty\|title=Ray J Enters Not Guilty Plea to Sexual Assault Charges\|publisher=Wetpaint\|date=August 21, 2014}}</ref>		On July 22, 2014, prosecutors stated the arrest had turned into four criminal charges. He was charged with sexual battery, vandalism of a police car, battery against a police officer and resisting arrest. They claimed he willfully touched the woman's "intimate part" for the "specific purpose of sexual arousal, sexual gratification and sexual abuse."<ref>{{cite news\|url=http://www.nydailynews.com/entertainment/gossip/ray-hit-10-charges-stemming-night-beverly-hills-hotel-report-article-1.1875220#ixzz38Kq0DjnZ\|title=Ray J hit with 4 charges stemming from boozy May night at Beverly Hills hotel\|date=July 22, 2014\|work=New York Daily News}}</ref><ref>{{cite news\|url=http://www.cnn.com/2014/07/22/showbiz/ray-j-norwood-charges/\|first=Alan\|last=Duke\|title=Singer Ray J Norwood charged with sexual battery, vandalism, resisting arrest\|publisher=CNN\|date=July 22, 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite news\|url=https://www.bet.com/article/sj40u2/ray-j-charged-with-ten-crimes-by-la-district-attorney\|title=Ray J Charged With Ten Crimes by Los Angeles District Attorney\|date=July 22, 2014\|first=Evelyn\|last=Diaz\|publisher=BET}}</ref><ref>{{cite news\|url=http://hollywoodlife.com/2014/07/21/ray-j-charged-sexual-battery-charges-arrest/\|title=Ray J Charged With Sexual Battery After Alleged 'Butt-Grabbing' Arrest\|date=July 21, 2014\|publisher=Hollywood Life\|access-date=July 25, 2014\|archive-date=July 24, 2014\|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140724171538/http://hollywoodlife.com/2014/07/21/ray-j-charged-sexual-battery-charges-arrest/\|url-status=dead}}</ref> On August 19, Ray J pleaded not guilty to the misdemeanor charges.<ref>{{cite news\|url=http://www.wetpaint.com/love-and-hip-hop-atlanta/articles/2014-08-21-ray-j-enters-not-guilty\|title=Ray J Enters Not Guilty Plea to Sexual Assault Charges\|publisher=Wetpaint\|date=August 21, 2014}}</ref>

	He was stopped by two police officers on August 6, 2014, in the San Fernando Valley. The officers claimed he was using his cell phone while driving, Ray J insisted that he was struggling to connect his Bluetooth. He was given a warning about texting and driving. The officers reportedly wanted him to step out of his vehicle, which he did, but Ray J claims they simply wanted to take a couple of photographs with him.<ref>{{cite magazine\|url=https://www.billboard.com/articles/news/6214283/ray-j-takes-photos-with-lapd-los-angeles-police-department-after-being-pulled-over\|title=Ray J Takes Photos With LAPD Officers After Being Pulled Over in Bentley\|date=August 10, 2014\|magazine=Billboard\|first=Mitchell\|last=Peters}}</ref> The LAPD began an internal affairs investigation into the encounter with the two officers.<ref>{{cite news\|url=http://www.hotnewhiphop.com/ray-j-takes-photos-with-cops-sparks-lapd-investigation-news.11608.html\|title=Ray J Takes Photos With Cops, Sparks LAPD Investigation\|date=August 10, 2014\|publisher=hnhh\|first=Trevor\|last=Smith}}</ref>		He was stopped by two police officers on August 6, 2014, in the San Fernando Valley. The officers claimed he was using his cell phone while driving, Ray J insisted that he was struggling to connect his Bluetooth. He was given a warning about texting and driving. The officers reportedly wanted him to step out of his vehicle, which he did, but Ray J claims they simply wanted to take a couple of photographs with him.<ref>{{cite magazine\|url=https://www.billboard.com/articles/news/6214283/ray-j-takes-photos-with-lapd-los-angeles-police-department-after-being-pulled-over\|title=Ray J Takes Photos With LAPD Officers After Being Pulled Over in Bentley\|date=August 10, 2014\|magazine=Billboard\|first=Mitchell\|last=Peters}}</ref> The LAPD began an internal affairs investigation into the encounter with the two officers.<ref>{{cite news\|url=http://www.hotnewhiphop.com/ray-j-takes-photos-with-cops-sparks-lapd-investigation-news.11608.html\|title=Ray J Takes Photos With Cops, Sparks LAPD Investigation\|date=August 10, 2014\|publisher=hnhh\|first=Trevor\|last=Smith}}</ref>
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	{\| class="wikitable plainrowheaders sortable" style="margin-right: 0;"		{\| class="wikitable plainrowheaders sortable" style="margin-right: 0;"
	\|-		\|-
	! ~~scope="col" \|~~ Year		! Year
	! ~~scope="col" \|~~ Title		! Title
	! ~~scope="col" \|~~ Role		! Role
			! Notes
	! scope="col" class="unsortable" \| Notes
	\|-		\|-
	\| 1994		\| 1994
	\| '']''		\| '']''
	\| Todd <ref>{{cite web\|title=The Enemy Within (TV 1994)\|date=August 20, 1994\|publisher=IMDb\|url=https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0109730/ \|access-date=February 16, 2012}}</ref>		\| Todd<ref>{{cite web\|title=The Enemy Within (TV 1994)\|date=August 20, 1994\|publisher=IMDb\|url=https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0109730/ \|access-date=February 16, 2012}}</ref>
	\| TV movie		\| TV movie
	\|-		\|-
Line 189:		Line 188:
	\|-		\|-
	\| 2015		\| 2015
	\| '']''		\| '']''
	\| Tom Major		\| Tom Major
	\| TV movie		\| TV movie
	\|-		\|-
	\|rowspan=2\| 2019		\|rowspan=2\| 2019
	\| ''Slasher Party''		\| ''Slasher Party''
	\| Himself		\| Himself
	\|		\|
	\|-		\|-
	\| ''Dear Santa, I Need a Date''		\| ''Dear Santa, I Need a Date''
	\| Jason Vaughn		\| Jason Vaughn
	\| TV movie		\| TV movie
	\|-		\|-
	\| 2020		\| 2020
	\| ''The App That Stole Christmas''		\| ''The App That Stole Christmas''
	\| Ray		\| Ray
			\|
			\|-
			\| 2023
			\| ''Bomb Pizza''
			\| Entrepreneur
	\|		\|
	\|}		\|}
Line 211:		Line 215:
	{\| class="wikitable plainrowheaders sortable" style="margin-right: 0;"		{\| class="wikitable plainrowheaders sortable" style="margin-right: 0;"
	\|-		\|-
	! ~~scope="col" \|~~ Year		! Year
	! ~~scope="col" \|~~ Title		! Title
	! ~~scope="col" \|~~ Role		! Role
			! Notes
	! scope="col" class="unsortable" \| Notes
	\|-		\|-
	\| 1993		\| 1993
	\| ''Rhythm & Jam''		\| ''Rhythm & Jam''
	\| Himself/~~host~~		\| Himself/Host
	\| TV ~~mini~~ ~~series~~		\| Main Host
	\|-		\|-
			\| 1993–1994
	\| 1993–94
	\| '']''		\| '']''
	\| L.J. Beckley		\| L.J. Beckley
	\| Main ~~cast~~		\| Main Cast
	\|-		\|-
	\|rowspan=2\| 1997		\| rowspan="2"\| 1997
	\| '']''		\| '']''
	\| Himself~~/musical guest~~		\| Himself
	\| Episode: "~~#3.14~~"		\| Episode: "Ray J"
	\|-		\|-
	\| '']''		\| '']''
	\| Himself~~/musical guest~~		\| Himself
	\| Episode: "Lil' Kim/Levert/Ray J"		\| Episode: "Lil' Kim/Levert/Ray J"
	\|-		\|-
Line 240:		Line 244:
	\| Episode: "Part 1 & 2"		\| Episode: "Part 1 & 2"
	\|-		\|-
			\| 1999–2001
	\| 1999–01
	\| '']''		\| '']''
	\| Dorian 'D-Money' Long		\| Dorian 'D-Money' Long
	\| Main ~~cast~~: ~~seasons~~ 5-6		\| Main Cast: Season 5-6
			\|-
			\| rowspan="2"\| 2001
			\| '']''
			\| Himself
			\| Episode: "Episode #38.23"
	\|-		\|-
	\| 2001
	\| '']''		\| '']''
	\| Mega (voice)		\| Mega (voice)
Line 258:		Line 266:
	\| '']''		\| '']''
	\| Bryan Lanier		\| Bryan Lanier
	\| Main ~~cast~~		\| Main Cast
	\|-		\|-
	\| 2004		\| 2004
	\| '']''		\| '']''
	\| Himself		\| Himself
	\| Episode: "#3.6"		\| Episode: "Episode #3.6"
			\|-
			\| rowspan="3"\| 2005
			\| '']''
			\| Himself/Guest Host
			\| Episode: "August 22, 2005"
	\|-		\|-
	\|rowspan=2\| 2005
	\| ''Cover Art''		\| ''Cover Art''
	\| Himself		\| Himself
Line 271:		Line 283:
	\|-		\|-
	\| '']''		\| '']''
	\| Himself~~/musical guest~~		\| Himself
	\| Episode: "Ray J/Ebony Eyez"		\| Episode: "Ray J/Ebony Eyez"
	\|-		\|-
			\| 2005–2006
	\| 2005–06
	\| '']''		\| '']''
	\| Darrell "D-Mack" McGinty		\| Darrell "D-Mack" McGinty
	\| Main ~~cast~~: ~~season~~ 5		\| Main Cast: Season 5
	\|-		\|-
	\|rowspan=4\| 2006		\| rowspan="2"\| 2006
	\| '']''		\| '']''
	\| Rapper		\| Rapper
	\| Episode: "Love Triangle"		\| Episode: "Love Triangle"
	\|-		\|-
	\| '']''		\| '']''
	\| Himself		\| Himself
	\| Episode: "Icons: Tarantino & Twiggy"
	\|-
	\| '']''
	\| Himself
	\| Episode: "Los Angeles Shows"
	\|-
	\| '']''
	\| Himself/musical guest
	\| Episode: "Ray J"		\| Episode: "Ray J"
	\|-		\|-
	\|rowspan=4\| 2008		\| rowspan="4"\| 2008
	\| ''BET's Top 25 Countdown''		\| ''BET's Top 25 Countdown''
	\| Himself		\| Himself
Line 307:		Line 311:
	\| '']''		\| '']''
	\| Himself		\| Himself
	\| Episode: "] ']'"		\| Episode: "Brandy 'Right Here (Departed)'"
	\|-		\|-
	\| '']''		\| '']''
	\| Himself~~/musical guest~~		\| Himself
	\| Episode: "Ray J & Yung Berg"		\| Episode: "Ray J & Yung Berg"
	\|-		\|-
	\|rowspan=3\| 2009		\| rowspan="2"\| 2009
	\| '']''		\| '']''
	\| Sporty O		\| Sporty O
	\| Episode: "Ima Star"		\| Episode: "Ima Star"
	\|-
	\| '']''
	\| Himself
	\| TV series
	\|-		\|-
	\| ''The Great Debate''		\| ''The Great Debate''
Line 326:		Line 326:
	\| Episode: "The Bonus Hour & Part 1-5"		\| Episode: "The Bonus Hour & Part 1-5"
	\|-		\|-
			\| 2009–2010
	\| 2009–10
	\| '']''		\| '']''
	\| Himself		\| Himself
	\| Main ~~cast~~		\| Main Cast
	\|-		\|-
			\| 2010–2011
	\| 2010–11
	\| '']''		\| '']''
	\| Himself		\| Himself
	\| Main ~~cast~~		\| Main Cast
	\|-
	\|rowspan=2\| 2011
	\| ''Video Hustler''
	\| Himself
	\| Recurring cast
	\|-		\|-
			\| 2011
	\| '']''		\| '']''
	\| Himself		\| Himself
	\| Episode: "Then We'll See Who's the MVP"		\| Episode: "Then We'll See Who's the MVP"
			\|-
			\| 2011–2012
			\| ''Video Hustler''
			\| Himself
			\| Recurring Cast
	\|-		\|-
	\| 2013		\| 2013
Line 350:		Line 351:
	\| Episode: "Ray J"		\| Episode: "Ray J"
	\|-		\|-
			\| 2013–2014
	\| 2013–14
	\| '']''		\| '']''
	\| Kenny		\| Kenny
	\| Recurring ~~cast~~: ~~seasons~~ 2-3		\| Recurring Cast: Season 2-3
	\|-
	\|2013
	\| '']''
	\|Himself
	\|Guest
	\|-
	\| 2013–14
	\| '']''
	\| Himself
	\|Host
	\|-
	\|-		\|-
	\|rowspan=4\| 2014		\| rowspan="4"\| 2014
	\| '']''		\| '']''
	\| Himself		\| Himself
Line 383:		Line 373:
	\| Episode: "Red and Gold"		\| Episode: "Red and Gold"
	\|-		\|-
			\| 2014–2019
	\| 2014–19
	\| '']''		\| '']''
	\| Himself		\| Himself
	\| Main ~~cast~~: ~~seasons~~ 1-6		\| Main Cast: Season 1-6
	\|-		\|-
			\| 2015–2018
	\| 2015
	\| '']''		\| '']''
	\| Himself		\| Himself
			\| Guest Cast: Season 5 & 9
	\| Episode: "The Wedding"
	\|-		\|-
	\|rowspan=3\| 2016		\| rowspan="3"\| 2016
	\| ''Driven To Love''		\| ''Driven to Love''
	\| Himself/~~host~~		\| Himself/Host
	\| Main Host		\| Main Host
	\|-		\|-
Line 402:		Line 392:
	\| Episode: "The Burn Book"		\| Episode: "The Burn Book"
	\|-		\|-
	\| '']''		\| '']''
	\| Himself		\| Himself
	\| Episode: "Southern Discomfort"		\| Episode: "Southern Discomfort"
	\|-		\|-
	\|rowspan=2\| 2017		\| rowspan="3"\| 2017
	\| '']''		\| '']''
	\| Himself/Contestant		\| Himself/Contestant
	\| Main ~~cast~~: ]		\| Main Contestant : ]
	\|-		\|-
	\| '']''		\| '']''
	\| Himself/Contestant		\| Himself/Contestant
	\| Main ~~cast~~		\| Main Contestant
			\|-
			\| '']''
			\| Himself/Guest Co-Host
			\| Episode: "Ray J/T-Pain/Should I Text My Ex?"
	\|-		\|-
			\| 2017–2019
	\| 2017–19
	\| '']''		\| '']''
	\| Himself/Contestant		\| Himself/Contestant
	\| Recurring ~~Guest~~		\| Recurring Contestant
	\|-
	\|rowspan=2\| 2018
	\| '']''
	\| Himself
	\| Episode: "The Love Edition"
	\|-		\|-
			\| 2018
	\| '']''		\| '']''
	\| Himself		\| Himself
	\| Episode: "Ray J"		\| Episode: "Ray J"
	\|-		\|-
	\|rowspan=3\| 2019		\| rowspan="3"\| 2019
	\| '']''		\| '']''
	\| Himself		\| Himself
Line 436:		Line 426:
	\| '']''		\| '']''
	\| Himself		\| Himself
	\| Recurring ~~cast~~: ~~season~~ 8		\| Recurring Cast: Season 8
	\|-		\|-
	\| ''Love & Listings''		\| ''Love & Listings''
Line 442:		Line 432:
	\| Episode: "Can't We All Just Get a Loan?"		\| Episode: "Can't We All Just Get a Loan?"
	\|-		\|-
	\|rowspan=3\| 2020		\| rowspan="3"\| 2020
	\| '']''		\| '']''
	\| Himself		\| Himself
Line 453:		Line 443:
	\| ''Pump''		\| ''Pump''
	\| Sean Ford		\| Sean Ford
	\| Main ~~cast~~		\| Main Cast
	\|-		\|-
			\| 2020–2022
	\|rowspan=3\| 2021
			\| '']''
			\| Himself/Guest Co-Host
			\| Guest Co-Host: Season 10, Recurring Co-Host: Season 12
			\|-
			\| rowspan="3"\| 2021
	\| ''Good Looking Out''		\| ''Good Looking Out''
	\| Himself/~~host~~		\| Himself/Host
	\| Main Host		\| Main Host
	\|-		\|-
Line 464:		Line 459:
	\| Episode: "Day Ones" & "Holy Heartaches"		\| Episode: "Day Ones" & "Holy Heartaches"
	\|-		\|-
	\| '']''		\| '']''
	\| Himself		\| Himself
	\| Main ~~cast~~		\| Main Cast
	\|-		\|-
			\| 2022–2023
	\| 2022–present
	\| '']''		\| '']''
	\| Himself		\| Himself
	\| Main ~~cast~~		\| Main Cast: Season 1-2
			\|-
			\| 2023–2024
			\| '']''
			\| Himself/Juror
			\| Main Juror
			\|-
			\| 2024
			\| '']''
			\| Himself
			\| Episode: "Coyotes"
	\|}		\|}

Line 478:		Line 483:

	==External links==		==External links==
			{{commons category}}
	{{cc}}
	* {{Official website\|http://www.rayj.com}}		* {{Official website\|http://www.rayj.com}}
	*{{~~allmusic~~}}		*{{allMusic}}
	* {{IMDb name\|id=0005043\|name=Ray J}}		* {{IMDb name\|id=0005043\|name=Ray J}}
	*		*
Line 489:		Line 494:
	]		]
	]		]
			]
	]		]
			]
	]		]
	]
	]		]
	]
	]		]
	]		]
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	]		]
	]		]
			]
	]		]
	]		]
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	]		]
	]		]
	]		]
	]		]

Latest revision as of 21:59, 28 December 2024

American singer (born 1981)

Ray J
Norwood in 2011
Born	William Ray Norwood Jr. (1981-01-17) January 17, 1981 (age 43) McComb, Mississippi, U.S.
Occupations	Singer songwriter rapper television presenter actor entrepreneur
Years active	1989–present
Works	Discography filmography
Television	For the Love of Ray J Brandy & Ray J: A Family Business Love & Hip Hop: Hollywood
Spouse	Princess Love (m. 2016)
Partner	Kim Kardashian (2002–2006)
Children	2
Father	Willie Norwood
Relatives	Brandy Norwood (sister)
Musical career
Genres	R&B
Instrument	Vocals
Labels	TMG E1 Knockout Deja 34 Epic Koch Sanctuary Atlantic Elektra EastWest
Musical artist
Website	rayj.com

William Ray Norwood Jr. (born January 17, 1981), known professionally as Ray J, is an American R&B singer, songwriter, television presenter, and actor. Born in McComb, Mississippi and raised in Carson, California, he is the younger brother of singer and actress Brandy.

Ray J's 1997 debut single, "Let It Go", was released by EastWest Records for the soundtrack to the F. Gary Gray film, Set It Off. Both moderate hits, the song peaked within the top 40 of the Billboard Hot 100 and additionally served as lead single for Ray J's debut studio album, Everything You Want (1997), which entered the Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums chart. He then signed with Atlantic Records to release his second album, This Ain't a Game (2002). Led by his second top 40 single, "Wait a Minute" (featuring Lil' Kim), the album became his first to enter the Billboard 200–at number 21. His 2005 single, "One Wish", peaked at number 11 on the Billboard Hot 100 and preceded his third album, Raydiation (2005), which commercially trailed the success of both the song and his previous album. The albums were each met with mixed critical reception.

In 2007, he co-starred in the controversial adult film, Kim Kardashian, Superstar, opposite then-relatively unknown actress Kim Kardashian. This foresaw the release of his fourth album, All I Feel (2008), which was critically panned, but yielded his furthest commercial success at number seven on the Billboard 200, also spawning his highest-charting single, "Sexy Can I" (featuring Yung Berg), which peaked at number three on the Billboard Hot 100. Released independently, his 2013 single, "I Hit It First" (featuring Bobby Brackins), peaked at number 51 on the chart, providing a brief period of resurgence as it discomfited his previous affair with Kardashian.

In January 2017, he competed in the nineteenth season of the British reality television series Celebrity Big Brother. In his entrepreneurial career, he launched the technology company Raytroniks in 2016, as well as the Raycon line of direct-to-consumer earbuds in 2017.

Early life

William Ray Norwood Jr. was born on January 17, 1981, in McComb, Mississippi, to Willie Norwood and Sonja Bates-Norwood. His older sister Brandy is a multi-platinum recording artist. Early in his life, he moved with his family from McComb to Los Angeles, 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.

Career

1995–2006: Everything You Want, This Ain't a Game, and Raydiation

He signed to Elektra Records in 1995 and he began to record his debut album Everything You Want the same year. The album, released in March 1997, spawned the lead single "Let It Go", which appeared on the Set It Off soundtrack. "Let It Go" peaked at number 25 in the U.S. and number 11 in New Zealand. The second single peaked at number 54 on the U.S. R&B chart. In 1997, he was dropped from the label. In 1998, he appeared on the Dr. Dolittle soundtrack with the single "That's Why I Lie". He produced for toy company Mattel, putting together the music for several commercials and a few of the demos for his second record.

Ray J recorded "Another Day in Paradise" with Brandy, which was a Top Ten success in Austria, UK, Germany, Sweden, Switzerland, Belgium, Norway, Ireland, and the Netherlands, and number 11 in Australia and France. The song was the lead single of the R&B/Hip Hop tribute Urban Renewal, in which he co-produced and performed songs. Norwood also worked with the Neptunes, Rodney Jerkins and Lil' Kim, and several other producers and singers for his second studio album This Ain't A Game. The album was recorded over 18 months, and was released on June 26, 2001, with Atlantic Records. The lead single "Wait A Minute" peaked at #30 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100 chart and #8 on the Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs chart. "Formal Invite" followed at #54 on the R&B chart.

After a two-year break, Norwood returned to recording studios, adding the finishing touches on his third studio album Raydiation with help from producers such as Rodney Jerkins, Timbaland, R. Kelly, and Rob Egerton. A joint venture by Sanctuary Records and Ray-J's own label, independent Knockout Entertainment, the album was finally released on September 27, 2005, in North America after several delays, debuting at number forty-eight on the Billboard 200 chart, selling 18,321 copies in the first week. The album's lead single "One Wish" was a top 20 success in the US, UK, Ireland, and New Zealand. Raydiation eventually sold over 400,000 copies domestically.

In 2005, Norwood joined the cast of UPN's One on One, where he played the character D-Mack for the final season. On both shows, Ray's character was related to Brandy's (cousin/half-brother on Moesha, brother on One on One).

2007–11: Sex tape, All I Feel, and A Family Business

In February 2007, a pornographic home video he made with former girlfriend Kim Kardashian in 2003, Kim Kardashian, Superstar, was made public. Kardashian sued Vivid Entertainment for ownership of the tape. In late April 2007, Kardashian dropped the suit and settled with Vivid Entertainment for $5 million.

Knockout Entertainment announced a multimillion-dollar album deal with Koch Records and Shaquille O'Neal's "Deja 34" entertainment company. The first album for this deal is Ray J's fourth album All I Feel, which features The Game and Yung Berg among others. It was released on April 1, 2008. The album's first single is "Sexy Can I" featuring rapper Yung Berg peaked at number three on the Top Singles (Hot 100) for six weeks. A video for the track, directed by R. Malcolm Jones, was shot in December 2007. J starred in the Black Christmas movie Dark Christmas under the direction from Deon Taylor.

In 2009, Norwood starred in his own VH1 reality dating show, For the Love of Ray J. The show premiered on February 2, 2009. For his show on March 24, 2009, he released the soundtrack/studio album called For the Love of Ray J. On November 2, 2009, the show's second season premiered. In 2010, Norwood and his sister Brandy Norwood premiered the VH1 reality series Brandy & Ray J: A Family Business along with their parents. The show debuted in April 2010 and chronicled the backstage happenings of both siblings, while taking a bigger role in their family's management and production company, R&B Productions.

On June 19, 2011, Ray J, along with his sister Brandy and his father Willie Norwood Sr., released A Family Business, which serves as a soundtrack to their hit reality TV show, Brandy & Ray J: A Family Business, and was released through Time-Life Music. He released a single from the album called "Turnin' Me On". The song will be featured on his upcoming album as well.

2012: Death of Whitney Houston

On February 11, 2012, Whitney Houston died of "accidental drowning", as ruled by the coroner. Ray J was in San Diego when she died and arrived at the Beverly Hilton, where Houston died, at the time paramedics and police officers came to the scene. While waiting for more information, he became angered upon hearing one of the officers make a "disrespectful comment" about Houston, prompting him to force entry into the suite prior to being restrained. Though he initially did not publicly address her death, Ray J broke his silence on February 17, 2012, when he told US Weekly that while the "world had lost an icon", he had lost a "close friend". Ray J's sister Brandy described him at the time of Houston's death as being "very distraught" and "disconnected" as well as referring to it as "a very hard time in his life."

Ray J and Houston became very close in the last years of her life, leading to speculation of a romantic relationship between the singers. However, Ray J stated that he and Houston were friends, and that they had never dated. On May 21, 2012, Ray J was found in his hotel room, unable to get out of bed and was rushed to a hospital by ambulance. The day before, he was said to have had a confrontation at the 2012 Billboard Music Awards when Whitney Houston's sister-in-law Pat Houston called security on him when she saw Ray J was seated next to Bobbi Kristina Brown, Whitney's daughter. Ray J went to the Beverly Hilton on August 1, 2012, for a panel during the TVOne portion of the 2012 Summer Television Critics Association tour. It was his first time there since Houston's death.

2013–present: Reality TV and new music

Ray J teamed up with Bobby Brackins for the track "I Hit It First", which was released on April 6, 2013. "I Hit It First" caused controversy for allegedly aiming its lyrics at Kim Kardashian and Kanye West. The song has since debuted at #51 on the Billboard Hot 100. "ATM" was released as a single on August 5, 2014, and it features Migos. Ray J is hosting Oxygen's new reality game show series Bad Girls All-Star Battle. In May 2014, Kardashian and West married. Ray J was reported to have sent a check that totaled his profits off of the sex tape that year as a wedding gift.

He competed with his sister on the FOX reality cooking series My Kitchen Rules.

On January 3, 2017, Ray J took part as a "new star" housemate on season 19 of Celebrity Big Brother. He walked off the show after a week. He also threatened legal action after his exit from the show.

On March 15, 2020, Ray J and Princess Love took part in The Conversation on Zeus Network. In May 2020, Love filed for divorce.

Other ventures

Technology companies

Raytroniks Inc.

As the founder of Raytroniks, Ray J introduced a line of consumer electronics to the United States market. The product categories included electric bikes, smartphone fans, and smartwatches. In particular, the Scoot-E-Bike brand which Ray J developed grew exponentially after implementing a viral organic marketing strategy. Ray J secured product placements through celebrities such as Sean Combs and Brandy and professional athletic teams, including the L.A. Clippers.

Raycon Inc.

In November 2017, Ray J co-founded a direct-to-consumer electronics brand called Raycon. Raycon sells wireless audio products such as earbuds and headphones. Ray J oversees brand and strategy.

Personal life

In August 2016, Ray J married Princess Love at Los Angeles' Cathedral of Saint Vibiana. The two starred on VH1's Love & Hip Hop: Hollywood. Their daughter, Melody Love, was born on May 22, 2018. Their son, Epik Ray, was born on January 7, 2020. In May 2020, Love filed for divorce.

Politics

He, alongside Kanye West, attended the premiere of conservative commentator Candace Owens's documentary The Greatest Lie Ever Sold, a film investigating Black Lives Matter financial controversies. Owens had been a longstanding supporter of Ray J's allegations against the Kardashians regarding his and Kim's sex tape.

In January 2022, Ray J visited Donald Trump at his Mar-A-Lago residence to discuss job creation. Ray J went on to say, "I've always admired and respected business acumen... job creation, encouraging small business development and how Information Technology plays an important role in the future of our economy." Despite not endorsing a candidate, Ray J has intimated his support for Trump.

Legal issues

On September 17, 2011, Fabolous tweeted about Ray J playing his song "One Wish" on a piano inside Floyd Mayweather Jr.'s house during a documentary on Mayweather and Victor Ortiz. Ray J confronted Fabolous in Las Vegas just before he was set to take stage at the Palms Casino and is alleged to have punched him in the face. He was arrested following the incident and in an interview with Power 105.1's The Breakfast Club, he explained why he took offense to Fabolous's tweets, stating that he played on the piano "every day" and referred to Mayweather as his "big brother" since the pair grew up together. Ray J demanded an on-air apology from Fabolous and threatened him, stating that he would "smack" him again. A number of celebrities were present during the incident, including 50 Cent, Mayweather and Kevin Hart. Three years later Ray J took full responsibility for the incident. He acknowledged that he had learned from the experience and felt terrible about it as well. According to Ray J, he went through a time of deep depression following the encounter, all the while trying to figure out what led him to act out the way he did and "how can I now grow and be better?"

On May 30, 2014, Ray J was at a bar of the Beverly Wilshire Hotel in Beverly Hills, California when a woman accused him of inappropriately touching her posterior. Police were called and deemed the touching incidental but he was asked to leave by the hotel staff. Ray J became angered because he contends he spent tens of thousands of dollars at the hotel over the last year. At some point, he allegedly became belligerent and according to the police, spat at an officer and kicked out a police car window in the process of being arrested. The charges against him included vandalism, resisting arrest and battery against a police officer. Ray J posted $20,000 bail and was released. The Los Angeles County district attorney on July 21, 2014, filed charges against Ray J and a police spokesman said his initial hearing would take place on July 25.

On July 22, 2014, prosecutors stated the arrest had turned into four criminal charges. He was charged with sexual battery, vandalism of a police car, battery against a police officer and resisting arrest. They claimed he willfully touched the woman's "intimate part" for the "specific purpose of sexual arousal, sexual gratification and sexual abuse." On August 19, Ray J pleaded not guilty to the misdemeanor charges.

He was stopped by two police officers on August 6, 2014, in the San Fernando Valley. The officers claimed he was using his cell phone while driving, Ray J insisted that he was struggling to connect his Bluetooth. He was given a warning about texting and driving. The officers reportedly wanted him to step out of his vehicle, which he did, but Ray J claims they simply wanted to take a couple of photographs with him. The LAPD began an internal affairs investigation into the encounter with the two officers.

Discography

Main article: Ray J discography

Studio albums

Everything You Want (1997)
This Ain't a Game (2001)
Raydiation (2005)
All I Feel (2008)
Raydemption (2022)

Filmography

Film

Year	Title	Role	Notes
1994	The Enemy Within	Todd	TV movie
1995	Once Upon a Time...When We Were Colored	Cliff (12 Yrs.)
1996	Mars Attacks!	Cedric Williams
1997	Steel	Martin
2004	Christmas at Water's Edge	Alberto Turner	TV movie
2005	Envy	AJ
2006	Save the Last Dance 2	Savion 'DJ Scientific' Gibson	Video
2009	A Day in the Life	Pinky
2012	Switchin' the Script	David Bostick
2015	Sharknado 3: Oh Hell No!	Tom Major	TV movie
2019	Slasher Party	Himself
2019	Dear Santa, I Need a Date	Jason Vaughn	TV movie
2020	The App That Stole Christmas	Ray
2023	Bomb Pizza	Entrepreneur

Television

Year	Title	Role	Notes
1993	Rhythm & Jam	Himself/Host	Main Host
1993–1994	The Sinbad Show	L.J. Beckley	Main Cast
1997	All That	Himself	Episode: "Ray J"
1997	Soul Train	Himself	Episode: "Lil' Kim/Levert/Ray J"
1999	Aftershock: Earthquake in New York	Clayton	Episode: "Part 1 & 2"
1999–2001	Moesha	Dorian 'D-Money' Long	Main Cast: Season 5-6
2001	Top of the Pops	Himself	Episode: "Episode #38.23"
2001	The Proud Family	Mega (voice)	Episode: "EZ Jackster"
2002	Intimate Portrait	Himself	Episode: "Brandy Norwood"
2003	Black Sash	Bryan Lanier	Main Cast
2004	Punk'd	Himself	Episode: "Episode #3.6"
2005	106 & Park	Himself/Guest Host	Episode: "August 22, 2005"
	Cover Art	Himself	Episode: "Ray J: Clocks"
	Soul Train	Himself	Episode: "Ray J/Ebony Eyez"
2005–2006	One on One	Darrell "D-Mack" McGinty	Main Cast: Season 5
2006	Shark	Rapper	Episode: "Love Triangle"
2006	It's Showtime at the Apollo	Himself	Episode: "Ray J"
2008	BET's Top 25 Countdown	Himself	Episode: "Top 25 Heartaches"
	SBC Blue Room	Himself	Episode: "Ray J"
	Access Granted	Himself	Episode: "Brandy 'Right Here (Departed)'"
	It's Showtime at the Apollo	Himself	Episode: "Ray J & Yung Berg"
2009	Nite Tales: The Movie	Sporty O	Episode: "Ima Star"
2009	The Great Debate	Himself	Episode: "The Bonus Hour & Part 1-5"
2009–2010	For the Love of Ray J	Himself	Main Cast
2010–2011	Brandy & Ray J: A Family Business	Himself	Main Cast
2011	Famous Food	Himself	Episode: "Then We'll See Who's the MVP"
2011–2012	Video Hustler	Himself	Recurring Cast
2013	Ridiculousness	Himself	Episode: "Ray J"
2013–2014	The Rickey Smiley Show	Kenny	Recurring Cast: Season 2-3
2014	Joan & Melissa: Joan Knows Best?	Himself	Episode: "The Sex Tape"
	Funniest Wins	Himself	Episode: "Roasted"
	David Tutera's Celebrations	Himself	Episode: "Brandy and Ray J's Family Feud"
	Total Divas	Himself	Episode: "Red and Gold"
2014–2019	Love & Hip Hop: Hollywood	Himself	Main Cast: Season 1-6
2015–2018	Love & Hip Hop	Himself	Guest Cast: Season 5 & 9
2016	Driven to Love	Himself/Host	Main Host
	Notorious	Himself	Episode: "The Burn Book"
	Leave It to Stevie	Himself	Episode: "Southern Discomfort"
2017	Celebrity Big Brother	Himself/Contestant	Main Contestant : Season 19
	My Kitchen Rules	Himself/Contestant	Main Contestant
	The Real	Himself/Guest Co-Host	Episode: "Ray J/T-Pain/Should I Text My Ex?"
2017–2019	Hip Hop Squares	Himself/Contestant	Recurring Contestant
2018	Unsung Hollywood	Himself	Episode: "Ray J"
2019	Love & Hip Hop: Miami	Himself	Episode: "Family Matters"
	Love & Hip Hop: Atlanta	Himself	Recurring Cast: Season 8
	Love & Listings	Himself	Episode: "Can't We All Just Get a Loan?"
2020	The Conversation	Himself	Episode: "Ray J & Princess Part 1-3"
	Insecure	Rufus	Episode: "Lowkey Feelin' Myself"
	Pump	Sean Ford	Main Cast
2020–2022	The Talk	Himself/Guest Co-Host	Guest Co-Host: Season 10, Recurring Co-Host: Season 12
2021	Good Looking Out	Himself/Host	Main Host
	Love & Hip Hop: Secrets Unlocked	Himself	Episode: "Day Ones" & "Holy Heartaches"
	Family Reunion: Love & Hip Hop Edition	Himself	Main Cast
2022–2023	College Hill: Celebrity Edition	Himself	Main Cast: Season 1-2
2023–2024	Ms. Pat Settles It	Himself/Juror	Main Juror
2024	John Mulaney Presents: Everybody's in LA	Himself	Episode: "Coyotes"

References

^ Torreano, Bradley. "Ray J – Biography". Allmusic. Retrieved December 5, 2008.
"Ray J Songs, Albums, Reviews, Bio & More". AllMusic.
"Ray J, Biography". HERDsay.com. Retrieved September 29, 2014.
"RAY J REVEALS FINANCIAL HARDSHIPS WHILE LAUNCHING HIS TRONIX TELEVISION NETWORK". Blackenterprise.com. March 29, 2024.
"Ray J > Charts & Awards > Billboard Singles". allmusic. Retrieved March 28, 2009.
^ "R&B Singer Ray J Readies 2008 Release of All I Feel". Singersroom. Archived from the original on July 16, 2011. Retrieved January 9, 2008.
"UPN Adds Five Fresh New Faces To Ensemble Comedy "One On One" This Fall". Retrieved March 10, 2007.
"Vivid Entertainment Spends $1-Million To Acquire Notorious Video 'Starring' Sexy Socialite Kim Kardashian And Hip Hop Star Ray J" (Press release). Vivid Entertainment. February 7, 2007. Archived from the original on September 23, 2008. Retrieved October 6, 2008 – via Hip Hop Press.
"Kim Kardashian's sex tape sees sales surge since announcing pregnancy". January 2, 2013.
12/12/07 – Ray J. Signs W/ Koch, Taps Snoop, Game, Lil' Wayne For New LP at the Wayback Machine (archived February 19, 2008)
"'Chain Letter' Director Plans Holiday Horror with 'Dark Christmas'". Bloody-disgusting.com. December 2009. Retrieved December 13, 2012.
"Brandy & Ray J to Star with Family in VH1 Reality Series". Rap-up.com. Retrieved September 16, 2016.
"Brandy and Ray J "A Family Business" Album Tracklisting and Details". Feed Limmy. April 25, 2011. Archived from the original on May 21, 2015. Retrieved April 4, 2016.
^ "Whitney Houston's Final Romance: Was Ray J Using Her for Reality TV?". The Daily Beast. February 23, 2012.
James, Lauren (September 19, 2013). "Ray J Angry After Cops Lewd Remarks About Whitney Houston". Contactmusic.com.
Johnson, Zach (February 17, 2012). "Ray J Breaks Silence on Whitney Houston's Death". US Weekly.
"Brandy Talks Ray J and Whitney Houston, Car Accident on 'Where Are They Now". Singersroom. August 4, 2014.
Barnett, Vanessa (July 16, 2014). "Exclusive: Ray J's Take On The Whitney Houston Biopic". HipHollywood. Archived from the original on July 20, 2014.
Porter, Rick (May 21, 2012). "Whitney Houston's family, Ray J clash at Billboard Music Awards: Report". Zap2it. Archived from the original on August 14, 2014. Retrieved August 13, 2014.
"Ray J Returns To The Hotel Where His Ex-Girlfriend Whitney Houston Died". PerezHilton.com. August 2, 2012. Archived from the original on November 29, 2014. Retrieved September 23, 2014.
"Ray J Won't Go Away: A Trailer For The "I Hit It First" Video". Complex Networks. Retrieved September 16, 2016.
https://www.billboard.com/artist/ray-j/chart-history/
Nostro, Lauren (May 19, 2014). "Ray J Is Giving Kim and Kanye the Most Outrageous Wedding Present of All Time". Complex.
Petski, Denise (May 13, 2016). "Fox Orders 'My Kitchen Rules' Cooking Series With Curtis Stone & Cat Cora". TV Tonight. Retrieved May 15, 2016.
O'Brien, Jon (January 3, 2017). "Who is Ray J? Everything you need to know about the Celebrity Big Brother 2017 housemate". Retrieved April 13, 2017.
Big Brother UK (January 10, 2017). "Ray J has left the Celebrity Big Brother House #CBB" (Tweet) – via Twitter.
"Ray J threatens legal action against Celebrity Big Brother after leaving house". BBC News. January 11, 2017. Retrieved April 13, 2017.
"The Conversation: Ray J & Princess Love Part 1". Zeus. Retrieved March 24, 2020.
"Watch Princess Love Confront Ray J About 'Strippers and Prostitutes' In 'The Conversation'". BET.com. Retrieved March 24, 2020.
"Princess Love Celebrates Son's 2-Month Old Milestone, Announces New Zeus Network Series With Ray J". March 2, 2020. Retrieved August 5, 2020.
^ Rosenbaum, Claudia (May 8, 2020). "Princess Love Files For Divorce From Ray J". Billboard.com.
Simmons, Darrell (June 20, 2016). "Rapper Ray J Set to Open First East Coast Location of Raytroniks in Hoboken". Jersey Diggs. Retrieved May 17, 2018.
"Raycon Scoot E-bike Celebrity Highlight". Vimeo. Raycon. Retrieved May 22, 2018.
Olenski, Steve (April 2, 2018). "Brands, Branding And Celebrities". Forbes. Retrieved May 22, 2018.
Finley, Tara (March 16, 2021). "Tuning Into The Heart of The Hustle With Ray J". LA Weekly. Retrieved April 20, 2021.
Myers, Kristin (February 26, 2021). "'People pay too much for Airpods,' says singer Ray J". finance.yahoo.com. Yahoo News. Retrieved April 20, 2021.
"Ray J and Princess Love Are Married: 'It's About Time!' Says the Singer". August 13, 2016.
Spain, Jamie (May 22, 2018). "She's Here! Ray J and Princess Welcome Their First Child". PEOPLE.com. Retrieved August 5, 2020.
Osmanski, Steph (May 24, 2018). "Ray J and Princess Love's Baby Was Born! See the Precious Announcement". In Touch Weekly. Retrieved August 5, 2020.
Harmata, Claudia (January 8, 2020). "Ray J Shares First Photos of Son Epik Ray Norwood: 'God is Truly Amazing'". People. Retrieved August 5, 2020.
"This is Weird: Ray J. Joined Kanye and Candace Owens at "BLM" Doc Screening". October 13, 2022.
"Candace Owens Calls Kris Jenner a 'Pimp' over 'Satanic' Kardashian Sex Tape". Newsweek. September 15, 2022.
"Ray J Defends Meeting with Donald Trump: "I've Always Admired & Respected His Business Acumen"". January 31, 2022.
"Ray J Celebrates Donald Trump Election Victory with Amber Rose, Rocks MAGA Hat".
Cline, Georgette (September 19, 2011). "Ray J Assaults Fabolous Over Twitter Comments". The Boombox.
"Fabolous And Ray J Clash In Las Vegas". MTV RAPFIX. September 19, 2011. Archived from the original on September 23, 2011.
Branch, Chris (September 16, 2014). "Ray J Takes 'Full Blame' For Rant Against Fabolous On 'The Breakfast Club'". The Huffington Post.
"Entertainment Index". ABC News. Retrieved September 16, 2016.
"Singer Ray J Out on Bail After Arrest at Beverly Hills Hotel". May 31, 2014. Retrieved September 16, 2016.
"Ray J ARRESTED -- Allegedly Spit on Cops [PHOTO UPDATE]". May 31, 2014. Retrieved September 16, 2016.
"Singer Ray J Arrested For Allegedly Getting Belligerent At Beverly Hills Hotel". May 31, 2014. Retrieved September 16, 2016.
"Ray J arrested in Beverly Hills scuffle". Retrieved September 16, 2016.
"Ray J -- Claustrophobia Made Me Kick Out Cop Car Window". June 2, 2014. Retrieved September 16, 2016.
Dukes, Alan (July 22, 2014). "Singer Ray J Norwood charged with sexual battery, vandalism, resisting arrest". KSAT. Archived from the original on August 12, 2014. Retrieved July 24, 2014.
"Ray J hit with 4 charges stemming from boozy May night at Beverly Hills hotel". New York Daily News. July 22, 2014.
Duke, Alan (July 22, 2014). "Singer Ray J Norwood charged with sexual battery, vandalism, resisting arrest". CNN.
Diaz, Evelyn (July 22, 2014). "Ray J Charged With Ten Crimes by Los Angeles District Attorney". BET.
"Ray J Charged With Sexual Battery After Alleged 'Butt-Grabbing' Arrest". Hollywood Life. July 21, 2014. Archived from the original on July 24, 2014. Retrieved July 25, 2014.
"Ray J Enters Not Guilty Plea to Sexual Assault Charges". Wetpaint. August 21, 2014.
Peters, Mitchell (August 10, 2014). "Ray J Takes Photos With LAPD Officers After Being Pulled Over in Bentley". Billboard.
Smith, Trevor (August 10, 2014). "Ray J Takes Photos With Cops, Sparks LAPD Investigation". hnhh.
"Ray J was full of 'energy' for Raydemption sessions". fox28spokane.com. August 15, 2016. Retrieved January 22, 2023.
"The Enemy Within (TV 1994)". IMDb. August 20, 1994. Retrieved February 16, 2012.

External links

v t e Ray J
Discography
Studio albums	Everything You Want This Ain't a Game Raydiation All I Feel
Soundtracks	For the Love of Ray J A Family Business
Singles	"Let It Go" "Everything You Want" "That's Why I Lie" "Another Day in Paradise" "Wait a Minute" "Formal Invite" "One Wish" "What I Need" "Sexy Can I" "Gifts" "Sexy Ladies" "I Hit It First"
Featured singles	"You Know Me" "Tie Me Down" "Talk to Me"
Related topics	Knockout Entertainment Kim Kardashian, Superstar

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