Having lent her electrifying vocals to some of the most memorable hits across the UK in recent years, it is time Raye got a chance to relish the spotlight on her own.

And she does so remarkably with a retro-influenced, dazzling yet vulnerable song, ‘Please Don’t Touch’. The track is included in her yet-to-be-announced album, a first studio record for the young British singer-songwriter, and this song sets the stage for a revealing, immersive experience that demonstrates why her album was well worth the wait. The verses are supported by steady clicks and snaps, while the synth sounds in the background, infusing nostalgic, bass-heavy energy into the song. 

A scintillating composition teeming with the butterflies of first love and buzzing with the intoxication of romance, it is a deeply affectionate tune that manages to be simultaneously vulnerable, passionate and sensual. Raye is known for belting it out in electropop dance numbers that move the dance floor, such as Jonas Blue’s ‘By Your Side’ and Jax Jones’ ‘You Don’t Know Me’ but her solo effort remains pristine and personal, perhaps deliberately so. She is one of UK’s rising artists, having received BBC’s illustrious honour of ‘Sound of…’ award in 2017, and now her album will surely excite her fans for the upcoming year. 

Raye has spoken out about her journey since her first EP almost five years ago now. “Since then I’ve been lucky enough to work with many incredible musicians, producers and artists. I’ve learned a lot from them all both personally and professionally. I like to think it’s made my music grow and evolve to hit a higher standard. I take every studio session as a learning opportunity and try to take something away from it.” She has claimed that she wants to be part of an industry in which women support each other. Seeing how she has been touring with some of the most incredible acts in pop music right now, the likes of Halsey, Jess Glynne and Rita Ora included, it would be no surprise to see her becoming a household name in the near future.

 Singer-songwriter