The incredibly talented singer, collaborator and songwriter to the stars, Raye, took to London’s KOKO in Camden on Tuesday night to perform her headline sold out show.
The night started with someone who’s no stranger to Raye, after they both supported Rita Ora on her ‘Girls Tour’ earlier this year, R and B songstress Kara Marni. After recently being featured on Elton John’s Rocket Hour radio show, broadcast on Apple’s Beats One, she’s definitely one to watch. Her soulful twist on pop curated a sultry and endearing set filled with a mixture of original material such as her latest single ‘Moves’ alongside a cover of Daniel Caesar’s ‘Best Part’.
After a short interval, Raye made an explosive entrance to the stage following an exhilarating instrumental from her band as she sported a stylish all-black ensemble accessorised with an infectious smile and humble attitude as she couldn’t contain her excitement.
She performed a range of her much loved hits from her vivid discography, including smash hits from latest project ‘Side Tape’, with most of them modified to create unexpected twists, excitement and provide an opportunity for her to truly showcase her vocal talent.
During the middle of her set, Raye took to her stool and a was put under a spotlight as she intertwined an intimate element into her breathtaking set, performing a powerful rendition of ‘Sober’ before proceeding to open up to her fans about a time where her personal space was so sadly invaded.
Before performing she began to explain how music is the only way she could express herself; she clearly took herself to a place of vulnerability, beautifully becoming transparent as she admitted she used to blame herself before realising how ridiculous that was.
The unreleased song ‘Ice Cream’ was inspiring, powerful and astoundingly honest, leaving the crowd immersed in her emotions. As her tears fell to her keys, she powered through as a brave, strong goddess labelling herself as someone who came out the other side, offering her support to anyone else who has or may have to go through such unfortunate experiences.
Shaking off her teary eyes, she amped up the party atmosphere once again and performing her catchy Stefflon Don and Mabel assisted female anthem ‘Cigarette’ before entering the hugely successful Jax Jones collaboration ‘You Don’t Know Me’ as the whole crowed roared the lyrics back at her. Raye left the crowd with an energetic performance of the sassy ‘Decline’ which had the whole venue moving as everyone soaked up the last few minutes of her phenomenal presence.
The charismatic lioness had the entire room in awe of her presence as she performed as if her life depended on it. With sky high peaks to emotion fuelled falls, her diverse, mesmerising hour long showcase sold her as not only a beautifully crafted performer but an all-round adaptable star who deserves to ride with the big timers.
Be sure to check out her impressive discography and let us know what you think over on Twitter @CelebMix