1980 Ray signs with Columbia and records his first solo album, “Volume.” The album receives accolades from critics and media, alike, climbing to number-one on the radio, notably, KSHE in St. Louis and BBC-1 in London.

“Everything you wanted in a rock record, but no one would record, is found on the new Ray Gomez. Straight-on rock to jazz to blues, and a little pop. It’s all on this one. Start-to-finish, it’s a winner!” – Charlie West, KMOD

”West Side Boogie erupts like Mount St. Helens spewing volcanic rock-licks, which could make Jeff Beck jealous!” – Peyton Mays, KZEL

Record company problems ensue, and lacking the necessary promotion and support, the record does not reach its deserving commercial success. Disillusioned with the recording industry, and unable to visit his family in France, Ray disassociates himself and takes a long respite from the music business as a solo artist.

1981 Ray engages in a new series of collaborations (Chaka Khan, Hall and Oates, “Scandal”...) and begins a period of teaching.

1984 Wanting a change of scene, Ray moves from New York to Los Angeles, where he remains for the next three years, and collaborates with Stanley Clarke, George Duke, Steve Smith (“Vital Information”), Steve Perry (“Journey”), Aretha Franklin, Tori Amos, Narada, Brian Auger & etc.

1987 Ray leaves L.A. for Spain and the Canary Islands for a period of writing and pre-production of a new album.

1988 Set with new material, Ray returns to New York. The band, ”Steps Ahead” invite him to participate as guitarist and co-writer on the album, “NYC.” During the same period, he plays on Eddy Palmieri’s CD.

With the help of old friends, Tony Smith, Dennis Chambers and Chris Palmaro, Ray returns to live performance on the New York City club scene, with enthusiastic reception from the public and music community, alike. Recordings for new projects begin with the collaboration of Dennis Chambers, T.M. Stevens, Buddy Miles, Will Lee, Andy Newark & etc.