PHOTO COURTESY OF KEVIN BURRIS

Credit: Jason Hall

In the past year, Cleveland’s Ray Cash has seen success – but that won’t change him.

Cash broke on to the Billboard Top 200 albums with his major-label debut, Cash On Delivery. On the album, he collaborates with hip-hop legends Scarface and Bun B, but he stays humble, demands respect and doesn’t forget about his Ohio roots.

“To sell five million the first week, do the mansion, do all that, that’d be great, but it ain’t what it’s all about. I’m one of these young cats that got something to say.we’re different here in Cleveland, we’re going to show we’re different,” Cash said.

Cash said he feels he’s is the token example for young Clevelanders because he’s proved making it in the rap industry is possible.

“There are people all over Cleveland who are really talented … and they’re trying to get their foot in door … I’m the one sitting at kitchen table; they’re expecting me to let them in,” he said.

Cash will be in concert with Chingy at Kent State Saturday night for Homecoming.

“Me and Chingy are going to tear this place up. It’s going to be something to see,” he said. “Kent is right in my hometown, so it’s going to be special for me.”

Cash will be on campus today to hand out some mix tapes, which include tracks from “Clangin’ and Swangin.'”

In spite of all the praise Cash stays humble.

“Whatever happens, happens. For me, it all comes down to … respect,” he said.

Contact ALL correspondent Dave Bolger at [email protected].

Ray Cash With Chingy Where? MAC Center When? Saturday, 8:30 p.m. How much? $5 students, $20 non-students