Raye

Rachel Agatha Keen, better known by her stage name Raye (stylized in all caps), is a trailblazing English singer and songwriter, born on October 24, 1997. Before becoming a solo sensation, Raye earned acclaim for her songwriting and production contributions to artists like Beyoncé, Little Mix, Rihanna, David Guetta, John Legend, Ellie Goulding, and Jax Jones. In recognition of her groundbreaking artistry, Raye received a BMI Award in 2019.

Raye's ascent to stardom was propelled by her collaboration on hit singles such as "By Your Side," "You Don't Know Me," "Secrets," and "Bed." In a bold move in 2021, Raye left Polydor Records, gaining independence and subsequently going viral with her TikTok sensation, "Escapism" in 2023. This single marked a pivotal moment in her career, topping the UK Singles Chart and making its mark on the global stage.

Musical Journey:

In 2023, Raye unveiled her debut studio album, "My 21st Century Blues," earning critical acclaim and nominations for prestigious awards. The album received nods for "Best Independent Album" at the AIM Independent Music Awards and "Album of the Year" at the 2023 Mercury Prize. Raye's influence on the music scene was further solidified with a Brits Billion Award and recognition from the Ivor Novello Awards, Global Awards, Brit Awards, BET Award, Popjustice £20 Music Prize, AIM Independent Music Awards, and the Mercury 

Career Highlights:

Raye's journey unfolded with the release of her debut EP, "Welcome to the Winter," in December 2014, followed by singles like "Flowers" and "Alien." Notable collaborations include Jonas Blue's "By Your Side" and Jax Jones' "You Don't Know Me," both garnering significant chart success.

The period from 2019 to 2020 saw Raye's continued rise with collaborations, including "Stay (Don't Go Away)" with David Guetta and "Tequila" with Jax Jones and Martin Solveig. Her single "Secrets" achieved remarkable success, topping the UK Dance Chart and making an impact globally.

In 2020, Raye released the single "Natalie Don't," setting the stage for her mini-album "Euphoric Sad Songs" in November. The album, centered around the theme of the "seven stages of grief," showcased Raye's versatility and emotional depth.

Independence and Global Triumph:

Raye's decision to part ways with Polydor Records in 2021 marked a turning point in her career. Undeterred, she continued to make waves with releases like "Bed," a collaboration with Joel Corry and David Guetta, and her single "Call On Me." Raye's revelation about her label withholding her debut album sparked a wave of support from fellow artists, leading her to embrace independence.

In June 2022, Raye released "Hard Out Here," her first independent single, paving the way for subsequent releases like "Black Mascara" and the dual single "Escapism" and "The Thrill is Gone" in October 2022. These tracks formed her debut studio album, "My 21st Century Blues," which captivated audiences globally.

Live Performances and Future Plans:

Raye's talent transcends the studio, and she has graced audiences with unforgettable live performances. In January 2023, she opened for Lewis Capaldi's tour and embarked on her "The Story So Far" mini-tour. The "My 21st Century Blues Tour," starting in February 2023, showcased her artistry on a broader stage.

Raye's global impact continues with her inclusion in festivals like the Glastonbury Festival 2023 and support roles for artists like Kali Uchis and SZA. Her U.S. network television debut on The Late Show with Stephen Colbert in February 2023 marked another milestone in her ever-evolving journey.

Personal Struggles and Triumphs:

Raye's life offstage has been marked by resilience and transparency. In interviews, she has candidly shared her struggles with body dysmorphia, addiction, eating disorders, anxiety, and a painful experience of sexual assault by a record producer earlier in her career. Despite these challenges, Raye credits her Christian faith for guiding her through personal hardships.

Catch Raye Live:

For fans eager to experience Raye's dynamic performances live, securing tickets to her concerts is a must. Stay tuned for the latest tour dates, ensuring you don't miss the chance to witness this exceptional artist in action.

Raye's journey is a testament to the power of authenticity, resilience, and unyielding passion in the world of music. As she continues to break barriers and captivate audiences worldwide, the future holds exciting possibilities for this remarkable English singer and songwriter.