RAYE is riding a wave of success as her captivating track ‘Escapism’, featuring the distinctive vocals of 070 Shake, has soared past the one billion stream mark on Spotify, per nme.com. Confirmed on April 27, this landmark achievement signifies the first song for either artiste to enter the exclusive billion-stream club, cementing ‘Escapism’ as a global phenomenon two years after its initial release.
The infectious blend of the British singer-songwriter’s soulful delivery and 070 Shake’s edgy verse continues to captivate listeners worldwide, underscoring the profound impact of RAYE’s critically acclaimed 2023 breakthrough album, My 21st Century Blues.
The streaming triumph of ‘Escapism’ follows its ascent to the top of the UK charts in 2023, granting RAYE her long-awaited first Number One single. At the time, she described this victory as the “ultimate validation,” a sentiment deeply rooted in her well-documented and often turbulent experiences within the music industry. This latest milestone further solidifies her position as a formidable force in contemporary music.
‘Escapism’s’ enduring popularity is intrinsically linked to the widespread acclaim of My 21st Century Blues. The album has not only spawned chart-topping singles but has also propelled RAYE to unprecedented heights. The past year has witnessed her break records at the 2024 BRIT Awards, where she swept the board with an impressive six wins. Her talent transcended the music sphere as she graced the stage of the 97th Academy Awards with a compelling performance. Moreover, she commanded the attention of massive crowds with electrifying performances on the main stages of both the iconic Glastonbury Festival and the influential Reading Festival, solidifying her status as a captivating live performer.
Her remarkable journey, marked by both adversity and triumph, continues to inspire and resonate with fans worldwide.
•Featured image: RAYE/Jamie McCarthy/WireImage
