Michael Ray Hangs out With Country Royalty

Michael Ray is one of the many new voices in country music who have a real shot of making a name for themselves. He is sticking to his country roots and using classic country themes in a time of "bro country" (not a fan of the label, but it is what it is).

With songs like "Real Men Love Jesus" you feel how deeply rooted Michael Ray is in country music. It has a lot to do with how he grew up with his Grandfather (who "Real Men" is dedicated to) playing the classics on his guitar and his father introducing him to great country voices. Both Michael's Father and Grandfather opened his eyes to the likes of Merle Haggard, Lynyrd Skynyrd and Randy Travis.

Michael had the oportunity of a lifetime this week when he got to sit down with once of his families favorites. Randy Travis and his wife Mary took time out of their busy schedules to sit down for dinner with Michael Ray. No word yet on what the dinner conversation consisted of, but I'm sure Michael gained plenty of knowledge and advice from a country great.

He sure seemed to be beaming after the meal: