Raye Calls Out Record Labels for Unfair Payment to Songwriters

With over ten years of experience in the music industry, Raye has seen firsthand the journey of a song from its conceptualization to production. Her passion for music is evident in her debut album, My 21st Century Blues, released in 2023, which received widespread acclaim and won the 2024 BRIT Award for Album of the Year. Amidst her success, Raye boldly criticizes record labels for their inequitable financial treatment of songwriters.

Raye's Critique on Record Labels

While most debates revolve around streaming services such as Spotify and royalties for singers, Raye shifts the focus to record labels. In a conversation with the Daily Star newspaper's Wired section, she expressed dismay over the disproportionate wealth distribution within the industry. She underscored the discrepancy by highlighting how label executives live in luxury while songwriters struggle financially, awaiting delayed royalty payments.

The Royalty Breakdown

To shed light on the industry's practices, Raye explained the allocation of royalty points for songs. She described how, out of 100 points, record labels often claim around 80, leaving artists with a smaller share, and songwriters with virtually nothing. Raye stressed the lack of fairness and accountability in this system, which she deemed as 'disgusting'.

Raye's Role as a Songwriter

More than a performer, Raye has been instrumental in crafting hits for renowned artists such as John Legend, Rihanna, Little Mix, and Beyonce. Her experiences reinforce her stance on the industry, which she claims fuels her anger over the mistreatment of songwriters.

Raye, songwriters, industry