Ever thought a radiology major could be a rapper/producer/song writer? Then you should hear the sounds of Haitian-born Will Drey. Upon moving to America at the age of 12 with his parents, his love for music began at an early age while singing in the church choir, in his new home of Hillside, NJ – a place where his musical influences would flourish. First learning to play drums and now the piano; Will Drey is quite stern; yet flexible with his music. He describes his sound as “well-respected” ...
Ever thought a radiology major could be a rapper/producer/song writer? Then you should hear the sounds of Haitian-born Will Drey. Upon moving to America at the age of 12 with his parents, his love for music began at an early age while singing in the church choir, in his new home of Hillside, NJ – a place where his musical influences would flourish. First learning to play drums and now the piano; Will Drey is quite stern; yet flexible with his music. He describes his sound as “well-respected” and “fun” and seeks to put out positive messages, as he describes “something everybody can listen to”.
Although producing has been his main focus, Will Drey dropped his first album titled, “Pay Day” in 2008 and is set to drop his next album, Inborn Gift (the name of his label) this year. While harvesting his musical talents within the church, Will Drey started his career pursuits with a local group name “H-Ville”, a shortened nickname for the town of Hillside. After performing in a series of showcases at Essex County Community College, he decided to run solo. As he competing solo in those same showcases, he received such positive feedback that he made the decision to go full-throttle on his musical career.
With a perception as a businessman with no limitations, it is with no surprise that Will Drey would make moves to launch his own label. In 2009, he and his business partner Fredric Sanelus founded Inborn Gift. The name is identified as “something you are born with” and since Will Drey sees his musical gifts as natural talent, the name was most befitting.
Will Drey has produced for over 50 artists, with 20 releasing full out singles. Although the vibe for his music has this universal “kick it” feel, Will Drey is well-versed in writing an producing pop, R&B, Hip-Hop, Country and a little Rock. Equally, his Haitian culture has played a strong influence in helping him to develop his own style. During down time, Will Drey listens to Christian and Pop music among other genres. A few of his favorite artists include 2Pac, Nas, Lauryn Hill, Mos Def, Pink, Keisha, WuTang Clan, B.O.B. and Ludarcris.
Will Drey is always willing to collaborate with his colleagues. He believes his team should never be below average and makes it a point to work with people above average, so that he is constantly learning. His take on the industry is that [people] “will always have competition. Some people will give you credit, some won’t”.
Will Drey’s can-do attitude is a recipe for success. Never limiting himself to using just one talent, his mantra is [if] you got the skills, then do it. As he continues to indulge in his addiction called music, Will Drey has only begun to show the industry what he has to offer.
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