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But the albums never materialize.
Then, years later, Raye finally speaks up.
Toward the end of 2021, Raye posts severaltweetsdetailing exploitation at the hands of her label.
It quickly goes viral on TikTok via a fan-made, sped-up remix and hits No.
1 on the U.K. charts.
A few months later,My 21st Century Blues, her long-awaited first album, finally arrives.
But you dont begrudge her for it.
Its been interesting seeing the rise of Escapism alongside the fan-made,sped-up version.
I messaged that fan to say, Thank you.
Maybe theyre just moving quick in life and need to hear the lyrics faster.
I was very moved watching thatvideoof you crying as you were handed your trophy for Escapism going No.
1 in the U.K. What emotions were you feeling in that moment?Aw.
I just think the past ten years flooded and flashed before my eyes.
A lot of conversations were had after.
A lot of artists reached out I wont name names expressing the same struggles.
Theres currently this broader reckoning with major labels and their mistreatment of artists.
Sometimes the choice wont even be there.
The requirement for these huge infrastructures is decreasing.
I think thatll be an exciting thing for up-and-coming artists to realize.
Their power is in their creative freedom.
My 21st Century Bluesbegs to be listened to in full.
Do you have faith in your listener to pay the album the attention it deserves?I dont know.
For me, albums are so important.
I know, for a lot of people out there, they dont have time for an album.
I would love to tap into those people who appreciate those details.
The album format itself is beautiful.
Its like a short film from an artist to a listener.
Im just excited that this is my first one.
Ive created my own album the way I wanted to create it.
Youre really putting yourself out there on this album.
It sounds like you really want to be known.Its deep, innit?
It is definitely very raw and open.
To be honest, its just my nature as a human being.
With the people I cross paths with and share relationships with, I say it how it is.
Its also a very medicinal album.
In music, Im able to make something so ugly in my head sound somewhat beautiful.
But thats just not honest.
Do you have material for a second album?Yes, Im working on stuff already.
There are no rules.
Thats my favorite phrase.
What is the goal now?
I want to step up a level.
I want to tell stories not just from my perspective but from others as well.
I want to verify that I never get carried away with the wrong intentions or mind-set.
I dont want to create with the intention to sell.
This interview was edited and condensed.
