From Filters to Feelings: How Raye’s ‘Genesis’ Unpacks Online Pressures

Everyone knows that social media is fake but we all act as if it's real and true to life. Augmented reality is fast-becoming the norm and people no longer look to magazines for the ‘beauty’ standard; instead they’re following influencers online - craving their lifestyle and looks.  

Just when you thought no one was willing to speak the truth about the state of the online and offline world, Raye entered the chat. 

In picture: Raye

Her debut album My 21st Century Blues bagged her a record-breaking 6 Brit awards and 3 grammy nominations, including Best New Artist. Raye’s been in the music game for quite some time, featuring on songs such as ‘You Don’t Know Me’ with Jax Jones and writing for industry legends like the one and only Beyoncé! So it was no surprise that her solo offering would be mind-blowing.

Before I tell you why Raye’s new song Genesis is this week’s favourite find, watch the visual:

Raye performs her song Genesis

Raye speaks from the heart about the pressure of social media to look a certain way and conform to an impossible, warped perception of societal ideals. She sings: my self esteem is facetune and ring lights, my ego is conquering new heights.

The production is absolutely stellar - it feels fresh and film-score like - taking you on a gospel, soulful, r&b-infused ride. I’m not going to lie, her music evokes something in me, it’s not just a song to me, it’s a relatable story and feels as if she’s speaking directly to my soul. Only Raye could put out a 7 minute song and have it not feel like 7 minutes. 

Not to brag but I saw her perform to a crowd of 20,000 people at the o2 earlier this year, backed by an orchestra and choir. It was phenomenal. What a star she is. She’s carved out a career of her own, refusing to be shelved by her former label, and going totally independent, proving that it's possible to make it without the machine.

With talent as big as hers, it was only a matter of time before the world saw her. I’m glad Raye is receiving her flowers - she’s worked hard for it - and I can’t wait to see/hear what she does next. 

Follow her incredibly inspiring journey at @Raye