Singer Raye excited to play Wild Life Festival

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Charlotte Harding talks to a singer taking on the Summer festival circuit.

How many times have you been at a gig or festival and dreamt about being the act performing on stage?

For most of us it is a pipe dream but for singer Raye it became a reality.

“I went to Wild Life festival last year and loved the atmosphere so much,” she says.

“When they reached out to me and asked if I would perform this year I jumped at the chance.

“It will be a little surreal to go from being in the crowd to being on the stage in just a year but I am so excited.”

Born Rachel Keen the British singer and songwriter has had a great year.

In 2016 she featured on Jonas Blue’s single ‘By Your Side’ and Jax Jones’ ‘You Don’t Know Me’.

She also came third in BBC Music’s Sound of 2017 behind Ray BLC and Uckfield’s Rag’n’Bone Man.

“It was amazing to be featured,” she enthuses.

“I grew up listening and watching the BBC so to be recognized by an institution like that it is just fantastic.

“When I had been told I had made the long list then the short list I couldn’t believe it and then to come third it is all very exciting for me.”

Her EP ‘Second’ came out in October 2016 and the singer has been working on her debut album.

“I don’t feel the pressure with the album as I think the BBC sound list has provided me with a platform which I want to use,” she explains.

“I just see it as a really good way to get my name out there and it is great to have a station like BBC Radio One say they will play your songs no matter what, it really gives you a boost.”

With her previous songs taking on a synth, R&B, dance vibe she says that with the album she may go more mainstream pop.

“But I will be pushing the boundaries as well,” she adds.