RAELLE
This week’s soul Sunday features South London artist Raelle as she shares details on
her song writing journey, favourite soul artists and inspiration behind her latest single 'Grace'.
Captivated by Jazz and Soul’s inherent freedom of expression and emotiveness, Raelle started making music from her own bedroom. Inspired by the likes of Isaac Hayes, Janis Joplin and Cleo Sol, she channels vibes between poetry and melody, using her voice as a natural way of sharing with others and aims to enable deeper emotional bonding creating a bridge to share experiences with people from different backgrounds.
Her latest single ‘Grace’ moves away from her traditional neo-soul roots to embrace a darker, richer and more nuanced sound. Blending neo and symphonic soul influences with a more up-tempo beat, Raelle takes you on a journey of finding herself again after the torment and depression of a broken relationship, as she calls for someone or something to help her.
When speaking about Grace Raelle says that “Grace is a metaphor for calling on a higher power whether that be something inside yourself, or something else to help you get out of this dark place. This song is a cry for help and explores feelings that come with depression….”
Listen to 'Grace' below
What does music mean to you?
Music to me means freedom, and is all about feelings, there are no rules in music, you can choose however to expresses yourself, it has allowed me to completely be myself with no rules which is something that i have found to be very refreshing
What defines you as a soul artist?
I draw a lot of inspiration from old soul records, and I my aim is to make music that is heartfelt and intentional, and uncompromising. I like to use live instrumentation and heartfelt lyrics, with the hope to relate and connect with more people.
What was the first song you fell in love with?
Probably ‘I heard love is blind’ by Amy Winehouse. I used to listen to that song on repeat on my cd player when I was younger. My dad gave my the CD and told me to listen to it and I listened to it on repeat and I have been a die hard fan since then
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When did you realize you wanted to sing and become an artist?
I was really young, I think maybe 9 or 10. I remember telling my friend I want to be a singer, but it was more of like a secret I didn't want to tell anyone because I was too embarrassed and was not confident enough. But it wasn't until 10 years later when I was around 19 that I started to pursue it seriously, and started thinking about my artistry more seriously.
Who are your top three favorite soul artists and why?
Cleo sol, I love her storytelling, and her calming and reassuring nature of her songs, she feels like a big sister
Lianne La havas, I love her blend of folk and soul, I love how confident she is and sure of herself and her sound, her sound is light and hopeful.
Michael Kiwanuka, His productions remind me of an old soul record but he makes it so current, I like that there is no bravado, it is just him and his soul, his sound is really pure!
What was the inspiration behind ‘Grace’ and how did it come about?
Grace was a song I wrote from a place of anger and confusion sadness and frustration, we wrote the demo in just under 30 mins, and majority was written over text, because we were in two different countries, and the result of it was really good
Since the start of your music journey, how has your creativity and songwriting changed?
I am becoming more sure of myself and my sound, I know what I want to say and what I want to sound like, I listen to so much more music now, and can draw inspiration from so many different genres now. I am more involved in the production side of things too which is new for me and learning to play more instruments.
During your time in the music industry what has been your best achievements so far?
Probably playing at the Albert hall, that was a really surreal experience for me, as well as getting picked for the glastonbury longlist, I think those were the best experiences for me so far! ​
Out of all the songs you’ve written do you have a favorite?
My favorite song so far is probably Grace! I feel like I have found my flow with that song
What three things can't you live without?
My people , my family and friends, I need coffee every morning otherwise I cant function, and Cleo sols Mother album- is getting me through life right now.​
What can your fans expect to see from you next?
Some new music, a video maybe some collabs and a project early next year is my plan ! so keep your eyes peeled!