- Name: Amy Ray
- Current Age: 57
- Occupation(s): Musician, Singer-songwriter, Activist
- Date of Birth: April 12, 1964
- Place of Birth: Decatur, Georgia, USA
- Nationality: American
- Parents: Adrian Ray and Kathryn Ray
- Siblings: None
- Spouse: Carrie Schrader
- Children: One daughter
- Net Worth: $8 million (estimated for 2024)
- Source of Wealth: Music, Tours, Merchandise, Publishing
- Ventures: Independent Record Label (Daemon Records)
- Ethnicity: Caucasian
- Height: 5’4" (163 cm)
- Notable Works: "Closer to Fine," "Galileo," "Power of Two"
Early Life and Education
Amy Elizabeth Ray was born on April 12, 1964, in Decatur, Georgia. She met her future musical partner, Emily Saliers, while attending the same elementary school. After graduating, Ray pursued her education at Vanderbilt University before transferring to Emory University in Atlanta, where she graduated in 1986 with majors in English and Religion.
Musical Career
In 1985, Amy Ray and Emily Saliers formed the Indigo Girls, a contemporary folk duo that gained widespread acclaim. Ray also embarked on a solo career, releasing six albums under her own name. She founded Daemon Records in 1990, an independent record label based in Decatur, Georgia, which has signed various artists such as Girlyman, Magnapop, and Utah Phillips.
Solo Discography
Amy Ray released her first solo album, "Stag," in March 2001, followed by "Prom" in April 2005, "Live from Knoxville" in December 2006, "Didn’t It Feel Kinder" in August 2008, and "Lung of Love" in 2012. She often collaborates with The Butchies, a punk band, on her solo projects.
Activism and Philanthropy
Amy Ray is a dedicated activist involved in various social and political causes, including gay rights, women’s rights, indigenous struggles, environmental protection, and the anti-death penalty movement. In 1993, she co-founded Honor the Earth with Winona LaDuke to support Native American environmental issues and sustainable communities.
Personal Life
Amy Ray uses she/her pronouns and identifies as a lesbian. She lives in the foothills of North Georgia with her partner, Carrie Schrader, and their daughter, Ozilline Graydon. In March 2021, Ray spoke openly about her gender dysphoria and being genderqueer on the LGBTQ&A podcast. She is also a Christian and maintains a friendship with musician Justin Vernon of Bon Iver.
Recognition and Contributions
Amy Ray has been a judge for the Independent Music Awards to support independent artists’ careers. Her collaborations with various artists, including The Butchies and Justin Vernon, have contributed to her diverse musical repertoire and philanthropic efforts. Ray’s dedication to activism and music continues to inspire and resonate with audiences worldwide.
Financial Insights:
As of 2024, Amy Ray’s estimated net worth stands at $8 million. Her primary sources of income include music sales, royalties from her extensive catalog, touring revenue, and merchandise sales. Additionally, Ray’s independent record label, Daemon Records, has been a successful venture, further contributing to her wealth.
Factors contributing to Amy Ray’s wealth include her consistent music releases, dedicated fan base, and successful tours. Her ability to connect with audiences on a personal and emotional level has solidified her position as a respected figure in the music industry.
