I just learned that Ray Monette is leaving Rare Earth! I was checking out the Soulful Detroit Forum site and read the news from the man himself. He is joining up with the Funk Brothers again. Part of me feels sick, the other part is very happy for Ray. He is so talented and this is going to open up a lot of different opportunities for him, plus a whole new audience to hear him play. After playing the same songs with Rare Earth for 30 plus years, it will be great to hear Ray rip it up with some funky guitar licks. But Rare Earth without Ray will not be the same, cannot be replaced!
Hi there!! I'm the new Guitarist In Rare Earth. I thought I would take this opportunity to say Hi and tell you all that Ray's shoes are big shoes to fill indeed. I have looked up to him as a player for many years and and feel blessed that I have this chance to play such great tunes in such a great band. I will do all I can to give you, the fans what you deserve. I have played 4 shows with the band and the fans have been wonderful. This is truly legendary music and being from Michigan,makes it all that more great for me.
You are right. It is an end to an era. But I promise you I will be the very best version of me I can,at every show. Congrats to Ray on a great gig with The Funk Brothers. And a big thanks to him for all the years of tearing up the Rare Earth stage and teaching me {with out knowing} over the years.
I HAVE BEEN A FAN OF RARE EARTH FOR MANY YEARS, BUT NEVER SAW THEM IN CONCERT UNTIL THIS PAST WEEKEND. I WITNESSED A GREAT BAND WHEN THEY PLAYED IN LANACSTER CALIFORNIA. I MUST COMPARE IT TO A ROCK'N' ROLL SPIRITUAL EXPERIENCE. I HAVE TO SAY IT WAS THE MOST POSITIVE CONCERT EXPERIENCE I HAVE EVER HAD. THE AUDIENCE WAS ON THEIR FEET AFTER EVERY SET. I WOULD GO SEE THEM TEN TIMES IN A ROW. THE NEW MEMBER IVAN PLAYED WITH HEART AND SOUL. IT WAS AN AWE INSPIRING EXPERIENCE
We had a great time. Love the coast.We are glad you like the show. It's been a blast for me to play with this band!. We are working on new tunes for a record! we are putting a lot of time into this and we're very excited about the new tunes. Look for us soon!!
I went to see Rare Earth in Newark, CA yesterday and just wanted to let Ivan know he as well as the rest of the Band were just awsome. If you get a chance see them, they are a must see, they didn't miss a beat. Thanks to all of Rare Earth you were wonderful then and you are still wonderful..
