10 reasons why we love your 2025 Friday headliner Raye

1. She’s a history-making award winner

Raye has earned numerous prestigious accolades throughout her career, including being one of the first recipients of the BRITs Billion Award. 

She has also won an Ivor Novello Award, a MOBO Award, and six BRIT Awards—making history as the first female artist to win ‘Songwriter of the Year.’ 

If that’s not enough, she received a Global Award and took home ‘Album of the Year’ at the 2024 BRIT Awards. With five other wins and nominations that year, Raye set a new record for the most awards and nominations for an artist at the ceremony in a single year. Wooooow!

We wonder where she puts all these awards…

2. She became an independent artist

She released her long-awaited debut album, My 21st Century Blues, under her own terms, which received critical acclaim for its honesty, vulnerability, and genre-defying style.

She made the bold decision to leave her record label and release music independently. By doing so, she took full control over her creative direction, which showcased her ability to make music on her own terms. We are in awe!

3. She stands for female empowerment

She uses her music as a platform to uplift women. Tracks like “Love Me Again” and “Escapism” dive into themes of independence, strength, and self-love, encouraging listeners to stand tall and unapologetically own their truth. What a queen!

4. She’s an advocate for mental health

And has been open about her struggles with mental health, especially the pressure she faced in the music industry. 

She uses her platform to raise awareness about mental health issues, encouraging others to speak out and seek help.

5. She’s a self-taught artist

She didn’t attend formal music school, but she taught herself to play various instruments, including the piano. Her love for music started at a young age, and her natural talent for writing and producing soon became apparent. 11/10 impressiveness…

6. She started writing songs at just 14!

Raye’s passion for music blossomed early—she began writing songs at just 14 years old. Her early songwriting experiences helped shape her emotive and authentic approach to music. 

7. She draws on her Jamaican heritage in her music

Raye’s musical roots run deep. Her Jamaican heritage, alongside her mother’s love for soul and pop music, influenced her eclectic taste and approach to music. The fusion of cultures in her upbringing is reflected in the diverse range of sounds she incorporates into her work.

8. She makes us feel like we’re besties with her

Raye once jokingly referred to her fans as “Raye-bows,” drawing inspiration from the colorful and vibrant personalities of her audience. 

And her Chicken Shop Date is everything.

Raye, please can we take you to a chicken shop in Newquay?

9. She’s collaborated with some of the biggest names in the game

Raye has worked with some of the biggest names in the music industry, from Jax Jones to Calvin Harris and David Guetta. 

Whether it’s a feature or a full collaboration, Raye seamlessly blends her distinctive sound with others, creating chart-topping hits that appeal to a global audience. 

More collabs pleeeaaase…

10. She’s obsessed with cake!

Raye has openly confessed her love for cake on multiple occasions. Whether it’s for her birthday or just a random celebration, cake is always a good idea for her. What cake should we bring her next summer?

Catch her headlining your Friday at Boardmasters 2025. 

Book remaining tickets now!