Who You Gonna Call?

Ray Parker Jr. grew up in the segregated streets of Detroit during the 1960s, facing various adversities that came with that era. The violent riots of 1967 and ongoing racial injustices shaped his formative years and instilled a sense of resilience in him.

At the age of 15, Parker met legendary musician Marvin Gaye, an encounter that significantly influenced his aspirations in the music industry. This moment sparked a lifelong journey dedicated to music and songwriting.

Driven by a profound love for music, Parker dedicated himself to practice, working on his guitar skills for as many as 12 hours a day. This level of commitment laid the groundwork for his future successes as a musician and songwriter.

Parker's talent became apparent as he toured with renowned artists like Stevie Wonder and The Rolling Stones. These early experiences not only honed his craft but also expanded his network within the music industry.

At just 18, Parker contributed to Stevie Wonder's iconic album 'The Talking Book.' This early songwriting experience proved pivotal, as it caught the attention of several music industry icons and propelled his career forward.

His friendship with Chaka Khan led to the creation of his first #1 hit, 'You Got the Love.' This success marked Parker’s rise as a prominent songwriter in the music scene.

Throughout his career, Parker collaborated with icons such as Aretha Franklin, Diana Ross, and Tina Turner. These partnerships further established him as a leading figure in music, contributing to numerous celebrated projects.

Music mogul Clive Davis recognized Parker's immense talent and signed him to Arista Records. This pivotal move allowed Parker to break into the mainstream and achieve multi-platinum success during the 1970s and 80s.

Film producer Ivan Reitman approached Parker to create the theme song for 'Ghostbusters.' Under pressure, he wrote the legendary track in just three days, which went on to become one of his most recognized works.

Parker's work on 'Ghostbusters' not only earned him extensive fame but also led to a Grammy win. His contributions to the music industry were further solidified through this prestigious recognition.

Besides his Grammy win, Parker received a nomination for the Best Song Oscar for 'Ghostbusters.' This accolade highlighted his status as a major contributor to pop culture through music.

Ray Parker Jr.'s career achievements culminated in receiving a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. This honor acknowledged his influential role in the music industry and his enduring legacy.

In the documentary, Parker shares candid memories of both triumphs and tragedies throughout his life and career. Collaborators such as Clive Davis and David Foster reflect on their experiences with him, showcasing his impact.

Despite his fame, Parker feels that his broader contributions to music history are often overlooked. The documentary serves to enlighten audiences about his legendary career and the resilience he exhibited in achieving success.

The narrative of Ray Parker Jr.'s life invites viewers to consider the power of resilience and talent. Through his story, new generations of musicians can find inspiration and encouragement in their own journeys.