Our Story

The TraceTones are a trio built on friendship, family, and a shared love of music. Ray and Suzi are a husband-and-wife team, and James is a longtime friend and fellow musician. After years of knowing one another and sharing a passion for music, the three came together to create the TraceTones.

The name TraceTones reflects what music has always done for them—it leaves a trace. A song can bring back a memory, celebrate a milestone, tell a story, or create a moment that stays with us long after the final note.

With influences spanning Rock, Country, Folk, R&B, Pop, and Praise music, the TraceTones bring together decades of experience, heartfelt performances, and the joy of making music that connects people.

Vocals/Bass

Ray brings soulful vocals and a deep well of musical experience to the TraceTones. With roots in Rock, Country, Folk, R&B, Praise, and Pop, his sound has been shaped by decades of performing across Texas and beyond.

From nostalgia acts and original projects to rock cover bands, Ray has explored many sides of music and continues to find joy in every opportunity to perform. Whether on stage or in the studio, he thrives on collaboration and the connection created through music.

For Ray, every song carries a story—and his passion is sharing those stories in a way that invites others to feel, remember, and connect.

Vocals and Keyboard

Music has been part of Suzi’s life from the beginning. Starting with classical piano training, she developed a strong musical foundation that grew into a lifelong passion for exploring different styles, including Pop, Rock, Country, and Praise music.

Over the years, Suzi has performed with bands and ensembles throughout the Dallas–Fort Worth area. Her journey from pianist to keyboardist has opened new creative possibilities, allowing her to bring versatility, texture, and expression to every performance.

For Suzi, music is about more than playing notes—it is about creating meaningful moments. She believes music has the power to bring people together, awaken memories, and celebrate the experiences that make life special.

Vocals, Guitar

James brings depth, versatility, and a lifelong dedication to music to the TraceTones. A graduate of the University of Texas at Arlington’s music program, he has taught classical guitar at both Tarrant County College and UTA while continuing to develop his own artistry as a composer, performer, arranger, producer, and recording engineer.

His musical work spans a wide range of styles, from symphonic compositions to Rock, Pop, Christian, and Country music. With decades of experience creating music in studios and on stages, James brings both technical expertise and creative vision to the trio.

For James, music is a language of emotion and connection—one that allows people to share experiences, tell stories, and create something meaningful together.