RAYE Calls Out Record Label Practices Amid BRIT Awards Win: 'Songwriters you are profiting off are broke'

RAYE has publicly criticized major music companies for inadequately compensating songwriters.

Rachel Keen, 26, decided to part ways with her record label after they refused to distribute her independently written first album, "My 21st Century Blues."

After claiming victory at the 2024 BRIT Awards, the album clinched the prestigious Album of the Year title.

RAYE has emerged as a vocal advocate for up-and-coming songwriters struggling to make ends meet in an industry where significant labels prioritize substantial financial gains over artistic integrity.

RAYE's Revelations on Music Industry Privilege and Struggle

She revealed via NME, "For an industry that profits off songs, you got these CEOs and big label execs living in their fat huge Chelsea mansions, living a beautiful life."

"Meanwhile songwriters you are profiting off are broke, can't afford rent and fighting over scraps of publishing that is sat in bank accounts for two years before they receive a penny, because publishers have kept it in there so they can collect interest and make a whole separate business."

Originating from Tooting, the talented artist achieved a groundbreaking feat by clinching six BRIT Awards following her decision to pursue an independent path.

Additionally, she pondered over the intricacies of the payment system for singers and songwriters.

"Every single song that's released in the world, there are 100 royalty points. The label will take, say, 80 points. In a good deal, the artist will take maybe 20, 15, or maybe 12, and then producers get four points, but it has to come out of the artist's points."

The "Escapism" singer said, "And the songwriter doesn't even get one point. It's disgusting, the whole industry is disgusting. That's one little example of what goes on behind closed doors where there is no accountability."

Having penned songs for acclaimed artists such as Beyoncé, Little Mix, John Legend, and Rihanna, RAYE expressed her frustration with the current circumstances. The "Prada" songwriter revealed that she deeply felt anger towards the situation.

RAYE In Glastonbury?

Amid the buzz surrounding her upcoming performance at this year's Glastonbury Festival, fans eagerly anticipate the announcement of the lineup for the highly-anticipated event scheduled for June.

Following high-level discussions with Stevie Wonder, reportedly drawing to a close, organizer Emily Eavis is reportedly eager to secure the participation of the record-setting BRIT Award-winning artist, RAYE, for the upcoming return of the music festival scheduled from June 26 to June 30, 2024.

According to insider information from The Sun, Emily has admired RAYE, her perseverance in the music industry, and her triumph over music labels.

Recognizing the pop star's talent and dedication, Emily is keen to give her a prominent slot at the upcoming event on the farm, especially after her success at the BRITs early this month.

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