Genesis.

“Genesis.” is the highly anticipated single from record breaking artist RAYE, released on the 7th June 2024 through Human Re Sources.

The song was originally known as “Let There Be Light” by RAYE’s fans, and is divided into three acts, in which RAYE sonically reflects the mood of the song. There are several genres throughout the track, ranging from gospel to jazz, contemporary R&B to hip-pop and many more. The lyrics discuss society’s obsession with social media and external validation, depression, struggle with addiction and anxiety – but with the final act ending with a hopeful sound and a more hopeful outlook on life. The song also makes references to the UK’s political climate and pay strikes and protests – mainly the NHS.

“Genesis.” took RAYE a year and a half to perfect, with it being a total of seven minutes long, which prompted a mixed response from her management, to which she said:

“This is about art, if it was about selling music… then I would have not made it [this way].” 

On RAYE’s website, the singer explained her personal attachment to the track:

“There is a Nina Simone quote, ‘It is an artist’s duty to reflect the times’. This quote is everything to me and I believe the best way I can try to do this is through my art and my music […] The song is a 7 minute piece that I have crafted and scrutinised over the last year and a half, experimenting with different genres and sonic expressions, beneath all the layers and the lyrics, the underlying message is ‘Let There Be Light’. It is a prayer and a plea and a cry for help and I really hope this song will be able to bring some hope […]”. 

The music video was directed by RAYE and Otis Dominique and was released on YouTube alongside the single.

Read the lyrics to “Genesis.” here.

*All information accurate at the time of publishing (18th June 2024).