Voodoo Ray, a New York dancer who appeared in some of Hip Hop’s most classic music videos, passed away on Tuesday (October 17).
Tributes have poured in for Ray, born Raymond Ultarte, whose footwork won him a foothold in the early days of Hip Hop and beyond.
Voodoo Ray’s moves can be seen across dozens of music videos, such as Run-DMC’s “It’s Like That,” JAY-Z’s “Sunshine” and Busta Rhymes’ “Put Your Hands Where My Eyes Can See.”
Ultarte was just 50 years old at the time of his passing, and the cause of death has not been announced. Friend John Rich wrote on Facebook: “I’m so sorry to say that class and practice will be cancelled tomorrow due to the sudden loss of a great dear friend. Rest In Paradise my brother Mr Voodoo Ray.”
Beyond working with many Hip Hop artists throughout the ’80s and ’90s to create visual expressions of their music, Voodoo Ray remained an active promoter of New York nightlife, working with nightclubs and DJs to promote Hip Hop and dance music.
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Ultarte has been fondly remembered by those he worked with.
