This is the main reason why I (along with many others) gave out of the idea of working in the music industry. I love music, but every single time I tried to pitch raw, talented artists that create great music I always got hit with the “not enough streams” comments. Labels don’t want to invest in you long term, they are only interested in what’s trending/what can make them money right now. Plus you have to be on their good side, if they don’t approve well then that’s it. Raye is one of many, but things turned out good for her in the end. The music industry is a business first mindset but there’s a lot of gatekeeping, bullshit, cliques and all around fuckery that drives music nerds like myself out of it. I would advise artists to stay independent, build your community and develop your art. Sure it’ll take time, but it’s time well invested instead of being on the shelf or waiting for a major label to give you an opportunity. You lose nothing by betting on yourself first and owning 100% of the music YOU make.

Raye has one of the most triumphant 'told-you-so' stories of recent chart history. Signed to Polydor Records as a teenager, she spent years on pop's periphery, writing songs for Beyoncé and Little Mix, and lending her vocals to top 10 hits by David Guetta and Jax Jones. But her solo material never scaled those heights and, in 2021, she told fans her label was refusing to release her debut album. Dozens of potential hits were "sat in folders collecting dust", she said, while others were being given away to bigger stars "because I am still awaiting confirmation that I am good enough". "I'm done," she concluded, "being a polite pop star."

Frrr, in my opinion is the best part of the music

It's not underrated at all. No one can't stand still during this bit ❤

i didn't get on with part 2 but part 3 is my favourite song of the year

SAMEEE its an honor🤗

Same

REAL

Me neither, RAYE is talented!

YES!!! THIS.