James Ray was a lesser-known American R&B singer from the early 1960s, noted for his soulful and emotive vocal style. He is best remembered for his hit single "If You Gotta Make a Fool of Somebody", which became a Top 10 hit on the Billboard Hot 100. His music, though it did not gain widespread fame during his lifetime, has been influential in the soul and R&B genre, and his songs have been covered by renowned artists such as The Beatles and Bruce Springsteen. Despite his brief career, Ray's unique sound and emotive delivery have left a lasting mark on the music industry.