RAYE Breaks Genre with Genesis : A Powerful & Personal Masterpiece
Fresh off her record-breaking wins at The BRITs, global sensation RAYE returns with the genre-defying opus ‘Genesis.’ This latest release transcends the traditional boundaries of a single, presenting a rich and intricate three-act piece that redefines musical storytelling.
A Collaborative Masterpiece
Produced by the multiple GRAMMY Award-winning Rodney “Darkchild” Jerkins, known for his work with Beyoncé, Michael Jackson, and SZA, ‘Genesis.’ is a testament to RAYE’s innovative spirit and artistic evolution. The track is a masterclass in disruption, blending elements of big band, jazz, hip-hop, R&B, gospel, and contemporary pop into a seamless and compelling narrative. With emotionally raw and vulnerable lyrics, triumphant strings and horns, and emboldened snares, RAYE delivers a divine battle cry that is both deeply personal and universally resonant.
RAYE’s Vision and Voice
Reflecting on her creative process, RAYE shares, “There is a Nina Simone quote, ‘It is an artist’s duty to reflect the times.’ This quote is everything to me and I believe the best way I can try to do this is through my art and my music. There is so much darkness and pain in this world we live in, and I wanted to create something both as deeply personal and as raw as I could find myself to be about my own mind and the world I see around me. The song is a 7-minute piece that I have crafted and scrutinized over the last year and a half, experimenting with different genres and sonic expressions. Beneath all the layers and the lyrics, the underlying message is ‘Let There Be Light.’ It is a prayer and a plea and a cry for help and I really hope this song will be able to bring some hope, the way this music does for me, to those who need it most.”
A Year of Unprecedented Achievements
RAYE’s return with ‘Genesis.’ follows a historic year marked by groundbreaking achievements and accolades. She made history at The BRIT Awards with six wins, the most in a single year by any artist, including the first-ever female Songwriter of the Year. Her accolades also include Artist of the Year, Album of the Year, Song of the Year, Best New Artist, and Best R&B Act. Her career-defining performance at the ceremony was a testament to her artistry and impact.
Additionally, RAYE clinched the prestigious Songwriter of the Year at the Ivor Novello Awards 2024 and earned three awards at The Global Awards, including Best Pop and Best British Act. Her collaboration on ‘PRADA’ with Cassö and D-Block Europe won Best Song. This spring saw her celebrated debut at Coachella, her first MET Gala appearance in custom Fendi, inclusion in TIME Magazine’s “Next Generation Leaders” list, and a Best International Act nomination at the upcoming BET Awards 2024.
A Transformative Journey
Since her debut in 2014, RAYE’s journey to stardom has been remarkable. Her independent debut album, ‘My 21st Century Blues,’ reached No. 2 on the UK Official Albums Chart and produced the hit ‘Escapism.’, which became the largest selling single by a female British artist in 2023. The track earned her first UK No.1 and entry on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the US, where it has since been certified Double Platinum.
RAYE’s live performances have been equally impressive, with 130 headline shows, a set at Glastonbury’s Pyramid Stage, and a career-defining performance at Royal Albert Hall with a 50-person orchestra and gospel choir. Her televised BBC special and sold-out performance at The O2 Arena further cemented her status as one of music’s brightest stars.
An Influential Presence
In the last year, RAYE has graced the covers of Elle, Sunday Times Culture, GQ, Cosmopolitan, and many other prominent magazines. Her influential presence extends to high-profile television performances, including Saturday Night Live, The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon, Good Morning America, The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, and NPR’s Tiny Desk concert series.
With ‘Genesis.’, RAYE continues to push boundaries and redefine the music landscape. This latest release is a compelling example of her FAULTLess artistry, reflecting her vision and voice in a way that resonates deeply with listeners. Listen to ‘Genesis.’ now and witness the dawn of a new chapter in RAYE’s illustrious career.