Ray Hawthorne Returns with Humor & Heartbreak: “Ray Hawthorne Sucks” Out Now!

November 7, 2024

Defying expectations, Ray Hawthorne has returned - breaking new ground with humor and self-deprecation with the release of his latest album, "Ray Hawthorne Sucks." Known for his bold and emotive style, Hawthorne takes an unexpected, playful turn with Muppet-inspired elements scattered throughout the album, adding a surreal twist that injects levity into his cathartic lyrics. Fans can dive into to the new album HERE and pick up a limited-edition vinyl HERE.

Alongside today's long-awaited album release, Hawthorne has dropped the music video for "Flatline", a cinematic nod to his debut single,"EMERGENCY (feat. Kellin Quinn)." Set once again in the iconic bedroom that started it all, the video for "Flatline" is a treasure trove of Easter eggs that tell a layered story of his evolution all while featuring Muppet-inspired antics. Fans can watch the bittersweet new video below.

Speaking on today's video release, Ray Hawthorne shares:

"The Flatline music video is like your favorite rom-com if all the characters were actually puppets, and instead of falling in love they do drugs. No matter what you were expecting the Flatline music video to be, I can guarantee this was not it. Also, Kermit only showed up for the orgy scene. What a diva."

Furthering his excitement of his new album release, Ray continues:

"Are you looking for some random guy to spill his heart into mediocre pop punk music? Then THIS is the album for you! Wanna hear songs that sound like they should have been downloaded on Limewire in 2005? Then THIS is the album for you! Did you grow out of your emo phase only to realize life gets way more emo once you start paying taxes? Then THIS is the album for you! Did you ever get scared to walk into a Hot Topic so you just hung out at Orange Julius instead and made fun of posers but you were really just projecting because you thought you were the real poser? Then THIS is the album for you! Do you think Ray Hawthorne sucks? Then THIS. IS. THE. ALBUM. FOR. YOU."

Renowned for his work in North Kingsley, the acclaimed project alongside Shavo Odadjian of System of a Down, Hawthorne initially captured hearts as the Heartbreak Hero with his inaugural solo release "Heartbreak Feels Good in a Place Like This". However, his latest release, "Ray Hawthorne Sucks", shows a more introspective side of Hawthorne - one that channels sarcasm, raw emotion, and brutal honesty into a genre-blurring sound that’s distinctly his own.

While his work in North Kingsley and his debut EP showcased a different persona, Hawthorne’s latest solo venture shatters expectations, leaning into the pounding drums, distorted guitars, and chaotic energy. "Ray Hawthorne Sucks" is a self-aware, tongue-in-cheek title, but it’s also a reflection of the album’s themes—self-criticism, resilience, and emotional vulnerability. Packed with explosive anthems, the album strays from the cinematic, heartfelt tones of "Heartbreak Feels Good In A Place Like This", plunging listeners into a grittier side of post-punk, hardcore, and Hawthorne’s emo roots.

Be sure to to stay tuned for more new music from Ray Hawthorne coming very soon.

ABOUT RAY HAWTHORNE

Ray Hawthorne is basically an emo Muppet. His life revolves around pop culture references, Ninja Turtles action figures, and his dog named Oliver. Oliver laid on Ray’s feet during the recording of every song on his forthcoming album “Ray Hawthorne

Sucks”. This was mostly a positive experience, but there’s a particular section during the song “Panic Mode” where Ray had to yell “HEY HEY HEY HEY” over and over again. This made Oliver very tense, and he thought he was being scolded. Ray felt really bad for confusing Oliver in such a way. After the recording was done treats were had by all, and all was well.

Ray Hawthorne Announces New Album "Ray Hawthorne Sucks" & New Single "Body Count"!

October 3, 2024

Ray Hawthorne is back and louder than ever, delivering a heavy dose of sarcasm, rage, and brutal honesty with his upcoming album, "Ray Hawthorne Sucks" set for release on November 7th, 2024. Leading the charge is the ferocious new single, "Body Count", which puts Hawthorne's biting wit and raw energy front and center. Fans can pre-save the new album HERE. Fans can also purchase a limited run of exclusive vinyl HERE.

Renowned for his work in North Kingsley alongside Shavo Odadjian of System of a Down, his inaugural solo release "Heartbreak Feels Good in a Place Like This" had initially crowned him as the Heartbreak Hero. His upcoming album, "Ray Hawthorne Sucks"takes a hard left turn that channels frustration, irony, and self-deprecating humor into the signature Ray Hawthorne genre-blurring sound.

Speaking on today's single release, Ray Hawthorne shares:

"I have very little self control. Like almost none. I can get addicted to pretty much anything, and if it exists I’ve probably overdone it at some point. Whether something is generally considered good or bad for you, I will beat that shit into the ground until I just

can’t do it anymore. So “Body Count” is about just fucking running. Causing problems and running so far away from them that your avoidance becomes a new problem in itself. Sometimes I feel like my life is just a continuous loop of ignoring things until I find myself back at square one. But hey, it is what it is, I guess when you stop doing drugs you just find new ways to fuck up your life. Even if that new way is a consistent and ever increasing hunt for rare Ninja Turtles figures."

Lifting the curtain behind his upcoming album release, Ray continues:

"The last 9 months have been pretty fucking crazy for me. In a completely unexpected turn of events, people (for some reason) started giving a shit about the silly songs I record in my bathroom. This has been equal parts exciting and nerve-racking. Throughout the last 9 months I have panicked, blown out my voice a few times, injured myself during the LA marathon, celebrated my dog’s second birthday, and released a new song almost every week. I don’t know how or why, but that’s what I did. This album is a collection of some of my favorite songs throughout that process, and listening back to them all in one go is somewhat interesting to me. Hopefully it’s slightly interesting to you."

While his work in North Kingsley and his debut EP showcased a different persona, Hawthorne’s latest solo work breaks the mold, leaning into chaotic energy with the release of the no-holds-barred single "Body Count." Layered with pounding drums, distorted guitars, and his trademark emotive vocals, the track is an explosive anthem exploring the themes of self-criticism, guilt, and emotional vulnerability while grappling with feelings of helplessness and regret. "Body Count" doesn’t pull any punches—it's Hawthorne’s rallying cry for anyone who feels like they’re at the end of their rope.

"Ray Hawthorne Sucks" is a self-aware, tongue-in-cheek title, but it’s also a reflection of the album’s themes—self-doubt, frustration, and embracing the chaos. The project is a far cry from the more cinematic, heartfelt journey of his debut EP "Heartbreak Feels Good in a Place Like This". Instead, it plunges listeners into a gritty, unpredictable soundscape, blending post-punk, hardcore, and Hawthorne’s emo roots into a genre-defying mix that is as chaotic as it is cathartic.

Be sure to to stay tuned for more new music from Ray Hawthorne coming very soon.

ABOUT RAY HAWTHORNE

Ray Hawthorne Drops Dynamic Ryan Gosling Themed Music Video & Debut EP "Heartbreak Feels Good In A Place Like This"

February 14, 2024

Love is in the air as Ray Hawthorne officially sets the mood with the release of his debut EP, "Heartbreak Feels Good in a Place Like This", alongside a dynamic new music video featuring everyone's favorite movies. Renowned for his work in North Kingsley with Shavo Odadjian of System of a Down, his inaugural solo release "Heartbreak Feels Good in a Place Like This" crowns him as the Heartbreak Hero. Fans can watch the brand new video below.

Accompanying the release of his debut EP is the music video for the epic title track, showcasing Hawthorne on a cinematic journey through the movies. Fans join him for a wild ride as he seamlessly weaves his own narrative into the fabric of movie magic. From heart-wrenching dramas to exhilarating adventures, the music video for "Heartbreak Feels Good in a Place Like This" encapsulates the universal themes of love, heartbreak, and redemption, mirroring the emotional journey captured in Hawthorne's lyrics.

Speaking on today's single release, Ray Hawthorne shares:

"I swear. I’m being dead serious. I’m not Ryan Gosling. For real. As I’m typing this I’m realizing that our first names have many of the same letters. R-Y-A-N, then just move some around, R-A-Y. I’m not sure what to do with the N, but 75% of our first name letters match. Now that I have realized this connection, I wonder if it’s possible that we’re actually the same person? Are we all Ryan Gosling? Or are none of us Ryan Gosling? Is Ryan Gosling even Ryan Gosling? I can’t handle the thought. I wanna see that movie where he plays a stuntman whenever it comes out. I forget what its called, but it looks real good."

Lifting the curtain behind the EP release, Hawthorne continues:

"Do you remember that episode of Degrassi where Ashley really wants Craig to tell her he loves her, but Craig gets all panicked and can’t tell her that he does? It causes so much drama in their relationship. She begins to question her feelings for him and because of that, he becomes seemingly unsure of his feelings for her. So, in an effort to quell the bad vibes, Craig writes a song that includes lyrics IMPLICITLY AND EXPLICITLY stating that he loves her. (Total banger by the way, the only song of his I like better is the one he sings at the battle of the bands after the two inevitably break up, it’s also about Ashley. I believe it’s called ‘What I Know’) I promise I’m going somewhere with this. Craig was only able to admit he loved Ashley in song form, but you as the viewer are left wondering ‘Does he really love her, or was this just his solution to end the drama?’ Or, ’Is this truly the only way he can express himself because he’s kind of nervous about speaking his true feelings outside of the structured environment of a song?’. I tend to believe it’s a mixture of both. So what I’m trying to say is, this collection of songs is kind of like that. I always feel like I have so much to say but often feel a bit to vulnerable when discussing my actual feelings. So for the majority of my life, I’ve just written them into songs instead. These songs can be quite vulnerable even if they seem silly at times. So now you’re left to wonder, am I telling the truth, or am I just trying to get rid of Ashley’s bad vibes?"

As "EMERGENCY" feat. Kellin Quinn paved the way, its evident that Ray Hawthorne's debut EP, "Heartbreak Feels Good in a Place Like This" is an exploration of the human experience through the lens of a talented and fearless artist. His authenticity shines in his latest single, as he proves to be an emotional architect, constructing a musical landscape where vulnerability and strength coexist harmoniously. The EP serves as a mosaic of sentiments, each track unveiling a different facet of Hawthornethat hasn't been seen in any of his previous projects.

Celebrated for his work as the vocalist of North Kingsley, alongside metal heavyweight Shavo Odadjian, his solo endeavor marks a genre-defying sound that seamlessly weaves elements of pop punk, emo, and alternative rock. Building on the success of North Kingsley, where he has garnered over 2 million Spotify streams, his new solo venture is eagerly anticipated as he fuses genres to further push creative boundaries. As he returns to the spotlight with this chapter, Ray Hawthorne is making the most of his distinctive voice and emotional lyricism, all while becoming everyone's favorite Heartbreak Hero.

Be sure to to stay tuned for more new music from Ray Hawthorne coming very soon.

ABOUT RAY HAWTHORNE

DON’T PANIC! As an eternal emo kid from New Jersey, Ray Hawthorne’s vocal stylings have already amassed millions of streams with his project North Kingsley. Alongside Shavo Odadjian of System of a Down, and Saro from the Apple Store, Ray has collaborated with the likes of RZA, Cypress Hill, Scott Storch and more. Having released music in many different genres, Ray is finally stepping into a style of music he’s always loved, scene shit from high school. That’s right. Get your eyeliner and gauges ready, because he’ll 2-Step his way into your broken heart.

Ray Hawthorne Drops "EMERGENCY" Ft Kellin Quinn & Announces Debut EP "Heartbreak Feels Good In A Place Like This"

January 31, 2024

Known for his work in North Kingsley with Shavo Odadjian of System of a Down, Ray Hawthorne has officially made his solo debut as the Heartbreak Hero with his latest EP announcement - "Heartbreak Feels Good in a Place Like This" available on February 14, 2024. Fans can pre-save the upcoming EP HERE.

Accompanying the announcement of his debut EP is his first single, "EMERGENCY", which serves as a poignant reflection of Hawthorne's journey battling sobriety, delving into the internal struggles and personal demons he faces daily. Joining forces with none other than the acclaimed Kellin Quinn of Sleeping With Sirens, the track sees both emo mavericks intertwine their soul-stirring melodies and haunting lyrics to resonate with raw emotion and showcase their unrivaled authenticity.

Speaking on today's single release, Ray Hawthorne shares:

"Emergency is the culmination of almost 7 years of struggling to maintain my sobriety. There truly is a monster in my cupboard, and a hell inside my head that I have to battle with daily. I’m pumped to be able to include Kellin Quinn of Sleeping With Sirens on this song that has such a deep meaning to me. He was able to take the theme of the song and bring it to a higher level, plus the dude is just talented as hell, right? Right."

Lifting the curtain behind the EP announcement, Hawthorne continues:

"The day I have waited so long for is finally here! Everyone (whoever that may be) can listen to my silly emo punky songs. There's a bit of fun on this one, and a bit of a serious undertone as well, but most importantly it’s the kind of music I’ve always wanted to make. My 14 year old self would love this EP, and that's a win in my book. After years of working side by side and recording with so many musicians I grew up listening to and admiring, I’m finally able to step out and make something that’s my own. And that’s kinda cool. Just saying. Next up, I’m gonna invade Ryan Gosling’s life, Saltburn style."

As "EMERGENCY" paves the way, its evident that Ray Hawthorne's debut EP, "Heartbreak Feels Good in a Place Like This" is an exploration of the human experience through the lens of a talented and fearless artist. His authenticity shines in his latest single, as he proves to be an emotional architect, constructing a musical landscape where vulnerability and strength coexist harmoniously. The upcoming EP promises to be a mosaic of sentiments, each track unveiling a different facet of Hawthorne that hasn't been seen in any of his previous projects.

Be sure to to stay tuned for more new music from Ray Hawthorne coming very soon.

ABOUT RAY HAWTHORNE