Raye’s Journey: A Story of Music, Independence, and Family

Seth Doane Correspondent Seth Doane is a CBS News correspondent based in Rome, Italy since 2016. He has covered various significant events across Europe. September 27, 2026 / CBS News

Singer-songwriter Raye has achieved remarkable success with her hit song “Where Is My Husband!” which sold 1.2 million copies in the U.K. Despite the popularity of the song, Raye finds humor in its widespread appeal. She revealed that the song’s catchy bridge is what attracted listeners initially:

I would like a ring, I would like a ring
I would like a diamond ring on my wedding finger
I would like a big and shiny diamond
That I could wave around and talk and talk about it

Raye’s song “Where Is My Husband!” has been streamed over a billion times on Spotify. Despite not having a wedding ring, she considers this success a good substitute. She mentioned that the song humorously became associated with weddings even though it speaks about being single.

This track is part of Raye’s album “This Music May Contain Hope,” described as ambitious by Rolling Stone. Raye enjoys a bold style both on stage and in her songwriting process, which sometimes involves simple experimentation until inspiration strikes. She notes that she is currently taking a creative break, finding it refreshing.

Raye, originally Rachel Keen, started making music as a teenager in London. Her passion for songwriting emerged at 14, aided by a laptop gift from her uncle. Despite lacking vocal prowess initially, her unique writing style set her apart.

Recalling her challenges with remembering lyrics, Raye often engages audiences to sing along during performances:

Send the call out, send the call out
Calling all my baddest women, it’s about to go down
Click click click clack symphony, I need that
Click click click clack symphony, I love the sound of it

By 17, Raye secured a record deal. However, she spent years writing for others while her music remained unused. She fought against her label, Polydor, for creative freedom, eventually gaining independence to pursue her music as she desired.

Now, Raye embraces the risks and costs of being an independent artist. She enjoys creating spectacular shows despite the expenses. Her family plays a crucial role in her career, with her father managing her, and her sisters, Abby and Lauren, featured on the new album.

Amma, Raye’s sister, discussed the dynamics of working together as a family. Despite initial concerns, touring brought them closer, strengthening their bond.

Raye’s first album, “My 21st Century Blues,” deals with personal struggles, including experiences of assault and substance use. She reflects these challenges in her music:

In the back of the taxi sniffin’ cocaine
Drunk calls, drunk texts, drunk tears, drunk sex
I was lookin’ for a man who was on the same page
Now it’s back to the intro, back to the bar
To the Bentley, to the hotel, to my old ways …

Amma spoke about witnessing Raye’s struggles and ensuring her sister’s safety. She expressed the emotional toll of that period.

Raye shared that her songwriting serves as a cathartic release for dealing with pain, allowing her to overcome challenges. With a third album “And Then She Fell In Love” in the works, Raye anticipates a shift to a theme centered around love and positivity. She looks forward to creating uplifting music for her fans to enjoy.

WEB EXCLUSIVE: Watch an extended interview with Raye rayeofficial.com

Story production by Mikaela Bufano. Edited by Ed Givnish.