Every young musician aspires to become well-known artist, yet most don’t put in the effort. One of the youngest singers to break into the spotlight recently is 17 year-old Shawn Mendes with the hit single “Stitches”. Most of the other famous pop stars and bands are 18 years old or older. However, talented artists are discovered every day all over the nation, and one that has recently been discovered (by me) is 15 year old Ray Goren.

Ray Goren is a multi-instrumental artist, playing the guitar and the piano, and he also writes his own music. He recently released an EP called Songs for You, and admittedly, I was hesitant to listen to it. Some “talented” young singers may not have had the adequate training or are simply too young to be singing resulting in voice damage for the rest of their lives. On top of that, there’s also something called auto tuning out there.
Basically, I set my expectations low; however, I was pleasantly surprised with what I heard.

Those Days 
His lead single “Those Days” definitely showed off Goren’s impressive vocal skills are. His soulful voice sounded closer to a 30 year old than a 15 year old. The guitar and keyboard gave off a classical rock feel, and overall was catchy enough that after a few minutes I started singing along. This song definitely set a good tone for the remainder of the EP.

Light My Fire
The only cover of the EP, “Light My Fire”, as described by the record label, is “sultry.” I may not be too much older than Goren, however, hearing him sing “c’mon baby light my fire” and “tryin’ to light this night on fire” are not exactly the most appropriate lyrics. Although the guitar is extremely good in this song, the lyrics are just a bit too mature for him.

Down and Out
“Down and Out”, the third song on Goren’s EP, has many relations to the timeless song “Forever Young.” I would expect to hear this song in a coffee shop, for the chilled out beat with the slightly sad touch to it. This song was perfectly placed in the EP, right in between all of the faster, rock-like songs. This song is definitely one of my personal favorites.

Song for Me
If you enjoy listening to Bruno Mars, especially “Uptown Funk”, this is the song for you. The beat makes any listener tap their foot along. However, much like “Light My Fire”, the lyrics were just a bit too mature for him. I do not believe a 15 year old should be saying “I’m a club hopper, when I want to be” and “Got my sexy on, and a little cash.” The guitar solo was great with the song, and added that ting of classic rock that has been sprinkled throughout the album.

It’s on you
A great way to wrap up this impressive EP is the song “It’s on you.” This slow blues song really highlights his great vocals, and shows off the great guitar, keyboards, drums, and just a touch of trumpets. Just like Alicia Keys’ “If I ain’t got you”, this song is a great compilation of the best of what Goren seems to be.