Like many artists, British singer and songwriter RAYE took refuge in music during the pandemic. Keeping fans and dance music lovers wrapped around her finger, RAYE has released several singles in the past year, leading up to her debut mini-album, Euphoric Sad Songs. The project was released in November of 2020 and the lead single “Love Me Again” reached the UK Singles Chart and was certified, Silver.
Even before releasing Euphoric Sad Songs, RAYE’s vocals had already taken over the UK: in 2016 she featured on Jax Jones’ “You Don’t Know Me,” which peaked at number three on the UK Singles Chart. Her own single “Secrets,” released in April 2020, reached the UK Singles Chart top ten and boasts hundreds of millions of streams across listening platforms.
Along with writing her smash hits, RAYE has written songs for artists such as John Legend, Charli XCX, Quavo, Little Mix, and Ellie Goulding. During this quarantine, she worked closely with DJ David Guetta.
When asked about her experience working on Euphoric Sad Songs, the artist admits that it was “Super hard. It one of the hardest things I’ve ever written. I’ve received such amazing reviews and DMs and feedback about how it’s got some people through this lockdown, and that just means the absolute world to me.” Much of the mini-album revolves around heartbreak and the seven stages of grief, a tribute to RAYE’s personal experiences.
The artist is busy at work, as only months after the release of Euphoric Sad Songs, RAYE released a collaborative single with DJs Joel Corry and David Guetta titled “Bed.” When asked what it was like working with the two, RAYE answered:
“I love those boys! David is one of my best mates, I love him and I made the original idea with David. Joel, I never met until this lockdown, but when I met him, I just fell in love. He’s such a good-hearted lovely person who cares so much about his artwork and his vision… It’s been lovely working with these lads and it’s also nice to have a hit!”
It was the last day of Women’s History Month when we sat down with RAYE, and she shared the following sentiment: “I think it’s so beautiful when women support women… I love the number of beautiful women I have in my life. I just want to shout out all the incredible women doing it and hustling––I feel you, sis. I’m proud of you. Lots of love from RAYE.”
When asked what she would like to say to all her fans and friends, RAYE offered the following: “Obviously I can’t be there to hug you physically. I’m sending you a virtual hug with all my heart. Because music is my life. I am honored that people like you are supporting and buying and streaming and keeping me going. I’m so blessed and I love anyone who loves and supports my music. I just can’t wait to meet you and play shows for you when this is all over my darlings. Thank you.”
To learn more about RAYE, including her favorite drag queen, listen to our interview with the singer below:
Interview By
DJ RONS
