RAYE’s recent late-night show at Ronnie Scott’s in Soho was more than just another gig; an intimate performance that reminded the audience why she is one of the most exciting artists working today. Taking the stage around 1AM, barefoot and dressed in flowing jade silk, RAYE turned the legendary jazz club into her own small theatre. Instead of the huge sound and production that often surround her, this was a stripped-back, vulnerable set that drew everyone in close.
From the very beginning, RAYE admitted how much this performance meant to her, calling Ronnie Scott’s a “sacred ground.” It wasn’t a place for spectacle, but for connection. Things weren’t perfect – at one point a microphone cable slipped out, and later she lost her place in the lyrics. But these small mistakes only made the night feel more real and more human. The audience leaned in even more, caught up in her mix of confidence and vulnerability.
The setlist offered something for everyone. She performed new songs, old favourites, and even surprised the crowd with unexpected choices. One of the most moving moments came when she sat at the piano to sing ‘A Working Class Lullaby’. It was quiet, restrained, and full of emotion, showing that her voice is just as powerful when it isn’t being pushed to the limit. Later, she dismissed her band mid-song and sang ‘Summertime’ almost in a whisper before building it into a huge, soaring finish. The shift between soft and loud, delicate and bold, became a theme of the night.
@rayeinfos #Raye ♬ Originalton – Where is RAYE‘s Husband?
Her newer songs also shone in this setting. ‘Mary Jane’ and ‘Where Is My Husband!’ came alive with jazzy brass arrangements and playful energy. At one point she even invited two fans from the audience to come up and dance, adding to the sense that this wasn’t just a performance but a shared experience. The night closed with a jazz-infused rendition of ‘Escapism’, her biggest hit.
RAYE didn’t try to hide her nerves or cover up mistakes. She laughed at herself, challenged the idea that all she can do is “belt,” and showed off a voice that can be subtle, textured, and expressive. While comparisons to Amy Winehouse are common in this setting, RAYE proved she is carving out her own path, one built on her honesty and unique storytelling.
