Chicago-born singer-songwriter Ravyn Lenae has made headlines with her meteoric rise in the music industry. Her single, “Love Me Not,” has become a sensation, resonating with listeners around the world and solidifying her status as a burgeoning star. The song has accumulated over 734 million streams on Spotify and reached No. 5 on the Billboard charts, showcasing her unique blend of R&B and pop.
In a pivotal moment for her career, Lenae performed a cover of Roberta Flack’s classic “Killing Me Softly” at the 2024 Grammy Awards. During her performance, she caught the attention of R&B icon Lauryn Hill, who famously sampled the same song in 1998. Reflecting on that experience, Lenae remarked, “Young Ravyn is aligning with Grown Ravyn in a really special way.” The interaction reinforced her path in the music industry, serving as a reminder of her purpose.
The success of “Love Me Not” can be attributed in part to its widespread use on social media platforms, where fans have created nearly 500,000 videos featuring the song. Its relatable themes of love and longing have struck a chord with audiences, leading to a significant increase in her popularity. The song’s infectious melody captures the essence of modern relationships, making it a resonant anthem for many.
As Lenae continues to rise, she has gained attention from notable figures in the industry, including Kelly Rowland, Childish Gambino, and Kali Uchis. With support from such high-profile artists, her name is now synonymous with emerging talent in the music scene. Looking ahead, Lenae is set to embark on a European festival tour in 2024, with performances scheduled at prestigious events like Primavera Sound in Barcelona and Øyafestivalen in Oslo.
Artistry Shaped by Roots and Experience
Lenae’s musical journey began in her teenage years while attending the Chicago High School for the Arts. There, she honed her skills and developed a deep understanding of various music styles, including jazz, classical, and opera. She credits her education with shaping her approach to artistry, stating, “Being exposed to certain styles of music was really fun, and I learned about vocal health, reading music, improv, and acting.”
Despite her classical training, Lenae has faced challenges in breaking free from rigid vocal techniques. She acknowledges the struggle of balancing genre expectations with her desire to explore and innovate. “I can get into that thought process of having to stay within a certain confine,” she explained. This ongoing battle fuels her creativity as she ventures into experimental territory in the studio.
Growing up on Chicago’s South Side, Lenae also embraces her Panamanian heritage. She travels to Panama annually, seeking inspiration from her family roots. “That gives me some grounding, especially if I’m working on an album,” she said, reflecting on a trip where she connected with her late great-grandmother. This cultural influence is something she aims to weave into her music, creating a rich tapestry that represents her identity.
Support from Family and Influences from Icons
Lenae’s family has played a crucial role in her artistic journey, providing unwavering support from the beginning. “They put me in guitar lessons early on, encouraging me to find what my voice feels like,” she shared. This encouragement allowed her to pursue opportunities, including her first tour with rapper Noname while still in high school.
As her career unfolds, Lenae has received advice from music legends. Recently, Mariah Carey offered her insight during a conversation about the pursuit of hits. Carey emphasized the importance of chasing the magic in music, a perspective that resonated deeply with Lenae. “Once you find that magic, why wouldn’t you keep chasing that feeling?” she said, inspired by Carey’s success in the industry.
With the transformative experiences of the past year, Lenae sees her journey as a reflection of personal growth. “This has been one of the most transformative years of my life,” she noted, recognizing the lessons learned about patience and trusting the timing of her career. As she prepares for another year of performances and new music, Lenae remains committed to her artistic vision, eager to share her evolving sound with the world.
Ravyn Lenae’s ascent is not merely about chart success; it encapsulates a deeper narrative of identity, support, and artistic exploration. As she continues to captivate audiences globally, the future looks bright for this talented artist.
