RAYE, the acclaimed singer known for hits like “Oscar Winning Tears,” has spoken candidly about the immense respect she holds for the late Amy Winehouse after being compared to the iconic artist. Despite recording two songs with Mark Ronson—the renowned producer behind Amy’s biggest successes—RAYE stresses that she would “never, ever attempt to replace or imitate” the legendary singer.
In an interview with People, RAYE revealed she was initially “quite nervous and scared” to collaborate with Ronson, whom she has admired since childhood. “Honestly, I just want to make it clear that Amy’s artistry is unmatched. I’m in awe of her. We all are, and we miss her,” she shared openly.
The first song from their collaboration, “Suzanne,” is set for release on June 13, followed by “Grandma Calls the Boy Bad News,” featured in this month’s Formula 1 film. Reflecting on working with Ronson, RAYE described the experience as both intimidating and freeing: “It’s quite tough to allow myself to create so openly with someone I’ve looked up to for so long, but I had to tune out what others might think and just focus on the music.”
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RAYE expressed pride in the work they’ve produced together, saying, “We’ve made music that I truly love. Every time I listen to it, it brings me joy.”
In addition to her collaborative projects, RAYE offered an update on her follow-up to the critically acclaimed 2023 album “My 21st Century Blues,” which won British Album of the Year at the 2024 BRIT Awards. Despite facing a setback when her car was stolen—losing original songbooks and notes for the new record—she continues to work through the creative process. However, she confessed to still struggling with naming the upcoming album. “‘My 21st Century Blues’ is such a powerful title, and I don’t want to settle for anything less impactful,” RAYE admitted.
With new music on the horizon and collaborations that honor music legends while carving out her own path, RAYE remains a compelling force in contemporary music.