Raye has shared her true feelings about her 'traumatic' and dark phase in a candid interview. The record producer, whose real name is Rachel Agatha Keen, 28, was signed to record company Polydor in 2014 and rose to fame after featuring on Jax Jones' You Don't Know Me at the age of 19.
However, despite securing a record deal, Raye was uncomfortable being part of some projects that record executives pushed her to pursue. Describing it as 'a pretty dark year,' the London-born star explained how she wasn't close to most of her family at this time, apart from her sister Lauren - known professionally as Amma - who came to live with her for a while.
In a joint interview for CBS' Sirius radio, Amma explained how 'traumatic' it was to see her sister spiral. 'It would be me that had to double check that she was okay and, yeah, she was still alive frankly,' she said.
When asked during the interview whether she was using drugs at that time, Raye nodded and replied: 'Yeah, other stuff,' while explaining that she still drinks. 'Interestingly, there was a time when I was just not sober at all. I was really in the deep end,' she explained, adding that it was her grandmother texting her a Bible verse about sobriety that helped start her recovery.
'She didn't know anything that was going on,' she explained. 'I was very good at hiding what I was going through and what I was doing from my family. But that Bible verse kicked me in the teeth a bit.'
She added, 'I was at a session in LA, I just remember I went to the bathroom and I shed some tears and I was like, "I need to start getting it together here."' Reflecting further on her journey, the star noted how difficult the music industry can be for young artists who lack a strong support system.
She emphasized the importance of mental health awareness and having people around who genuinely care about well-being rather than commercial success. Her sister Amma also recounted the emotional toll it took on the family, noting how they felt helpless while watching Raye struggle behind closed doors.
The candid conversation shed light on the unseen pressures of fame. Fans and critics alike have praised the singer for her vulnerability and honesty regarding addiction and mental health struggles.
Many hope her story will inspire others facing similar battles to seek help. Meanwhile, the Escapism hitmaker is gearing up for an exclusive musical experience at one of London's most celebrated venues, promising a memorable performance for her dedicated supporters.