Daily Inspiration: Meet Ray Katanna

Today we’d like to introduce you to Ray Katanna.

Hi Ray, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
My journey in Atlanta starts in 2021. During Covid my mom passed away and I moved to live with my then girlfriend at the time out in Texas. The goal was at the end of the year move to Atlanta together and build a foundation for us and our future however things took a turn. She broke up with me, and kicked me out but I didn’t feel like a victim. I used that fuel to stick to my guns and still move to Atlanta all alone. Grieving my mom and my relationship I healed through helping others. At that time I was heavily involved in entrepreneurship as a social media marketing manager helping thousands grow their online brands. Even though I moved out here to pursue a career as an artist being from Newark Nj we always find a way and that I truly did. I got to where I am through constantly learning, reading, healing and choosing myself more.

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Absolutely not. I mean losing a parent and partner in the same year took a toll on me. I just feel like I’m starting to feel lighter about life and my mental health.

Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
After doing social media marketing for 5 years I decided it was time to believe in myself more than I pushed and promoted others. Now as a full time artist I’ve had an amazing 2026 so far.
Did my first SXSW in Austin, Daze Summit back home in NYC/NJ and even opened to a packed crowd down in midtown Atl for my home girl Forever the Rebel.

What sets me apart is that I’m not afraid to be vulnerable. I show all sides of me and it can be cringe, it can be unfiltered, it can be head scratching but I’m willing to embrace who I am without fear of what others will think.

I use healing as a lead for all my connections because in some way shape or form we are all working on something to better ourselves.

How do you think about happiness?
Being grateful. It’s easy to obtain things and then feel temporary satisfaction but true happiness to me comes when I’m grateful for what I have and what I’ve done and man is it a lot. Even more than I imagined.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://edst.com/rayk
• Instagram: https://Instagram.com/Raykatanna
• Facebook: https://Facebook.com/raykatanna
• Youtube: https://YouTube.com/Raykatanna