About Raz Rassel
Raz is an American Rock singer, guitarist, and songwriter/producer.
The Rocker Forged in the Midwest
Raz Rassel is a seasoned rock musician whose sound was forged in the gritty club circuit of the Midwest United States. Starting as a lead guitarist in his teenage years in Minneapolis, MN, Raz honed his skills on the road, commanding stages and touring rock clubs across the USA and Canada for several years. After developing his voice, he became a successful rock singer/guitarist, holding down house band residencies in the demanding Minneapolis scene.
Now residing in Sarasota, FL, Raz channels that road-tested experience into his own compositions and recordings. While he has performed locally with various rock and country bands, his current focus is on his solo music, delivering powerful songs rooted in decades of rock-and-roll dedication.
The Influences and the Craft
Raz’s sound is deeply rooted in the golden age of classic hard rock and heavy metal. His initial passion was fueled by titans like Journey, Boston, Van Halen, Rush, Dio, Ozzy, Judas Priest, and Iron Maiden. This foundation is evident in his instrumental prowess, which credits guitar influences to legendary players like Edward Van Halen, Yngwie Malmsteen, Eric Johnson, Alex Lifeson, and Malcolm Young. His powerful vocal delivery, meanwhile, takes inspiration from rock masters like Robert Plant, Steve Perry, Mickey Thomas, Ronnie James Dio, and Rob Halford.
Throughout his career, this diverse taste has led Raz to perform in numerous bands across a wide spectrum of genres—from Classic Rock and Heavy Metal to Country and Top 40. This expansive experience has given him a unique ability to adapt and connect with diverse audiences. Beyond the stage, Raz holds a genuine love for classical music, often taking on the challenge of adapting complex orchestral compositions into powerful rock instrumentals. This blend of technicality, diverse influence, and raw rock energy defines his approach to composition today.
