Ray Alynn (Chenot) was born December 16th, 1939 and studied guitar from his early middle school years alongside the greats like world renowned jazz guitarist Pat Martino, Joe Lano who played for Jerry Lewis during the telethons for many years and more.

His guitar teacher learned quickly that he also could learn bass and gave him a stand-up bass to use for 2 years. His dad, Raymond Young Chenot, would help him load the bass into the back seat of the car each time he needed to go to his lessons. Ray has been surrounded by the greats while he grew up in Philadelphia.

He grew up with Bobby Rydell, Chubby Checker and more in that area.

At the age of 15 Ray left his home and parents, Raymond Young Chenot and Lucille Capello, to be on the road with a group named The Joy Riders only knowing 3 rock and roll chords. They performed at many places around the country. During their tour Ray was also asked to make announcements at a PA radio station due to what the producer said was a great “timber” in his voice. He then was with a group named the J – Jesters.

 Joe Lano , Ray Allen (Chenot), and Pat Martino all grew up on the streets of Philadelphia Pennsylvania with legends such as Bobby Rydell, Chubby Checker and more.

Ray served in the Korean War and once he completed his tour there, they sent him to Vietnam. Prior to leaving for Korea, Ray met his wife Marie while working in a music store and eventually said to her, “I’m going to marry you”. They then married in South Carolina and were married for her lifetime. Once his service was complete, he worked for the United States Postal Service and retired there. During his service at U.S.P.S. he once saved the life of a baby. He explained that he was walking up to the door and there was a woman who opened the door with a little precious baby in her arms and the baby was blue in color due to the lack of oxygen. He grabbed the baby and brought her in and laid the little one down and breathed air into it and the baby began to breathe again. Ray also spent many years teaching people his passion, the guitar.

Ray in his later years performed at the locally famous Geet’s Diner in Williamstown NJ to entertain crowds for many of years and nights. Ray currently teaches local friends his passion as that is what he feels his purpose is, passing on the beauty and artistry of the guitar.

Frank Sinatra (Top Left) When Ray sat front row with his wife and Father in law.

Pat Martino (Left) and Ray Allen (Chenot) (Right)

Ray and the Joy Riders (Top) and J-Jesters (Bottom)

With his pride and joy guitar that he misses to this day.