Raye nearly toppled out of a gold mini dress during a performance with Mark Ronson on the Today show in New York City on Friday, as she revealed that her forthcoming second album—already available to pre-order— is not even remotely done. The British singer, 27, leaned down to pick up her microphone from the stage, briefly shielding her chest with a hand before tightening the straps and continuing the set with Ronson at guitar.
Raye’s look was described as leggy and metallic, featuring a dress with statement gold buttons. She completed the ensemble with minimal footwear, choosing to perform barefoot as she delivered a string of her hits alongside Ronson. The moment came during a high-energy rendition of her material, with Ronson providing live guitar to accompany her vocals.
In a separate moment later that day, Raye discussed her upcoming album during an appearance on Capital Radio Breakfast. She was candid about the pre-order and the project’s status, telling hosts that while fans can already pre-order, the music itself is not finished. "Can I be completely honest with you? I’ve announced this album for pre order, yeah. The album is not even remotely done," she said. She added that she is approaching the project with the mindset of doing the work thoroughly, comparing it to homework that she’s delaying only to ensure the material is the best it can be.
She elaborated on the creative process, noting that the way the songs flow and connect matters as much as the individual tracks. "With music I want it to be incredible, and I want it to be the best thing it can be. And for me it is deeper than putting a bunch of songs together and handing it out." The interview underscored a careful, perfectionist approach to the as-yet-unfinished collection.
The conversation follows a year in which Raye achieved significant commercial and critical recognition with her debut album, My 21st Century Blues, which won seven BRIT Awards. The project helped establish her as a leading voice in pop and R&B, and she has spoken openly in recent interviews about the personal histories that have shaped her artistry, including her experiences with sexual assault and addiction, and the role her sister played in helping her confront those struggles.
Among the personal timeline she shared in various interviews, Raye has reflected on dating after traumatic experiences and the long road to healing. She has discussed past relationships and the evolving expectations she has for a partner, noting that her perspective has shifted over time. In addition, she has addressed rumors about a summer romance with Formula 1 driver Lewis Hamilton, clarifying that they are longtime friends who have supported each other professionally and personally.
Raye’s public narrative has often intertwined her work with her resilience. She has described a difficult adolescence, including periods of drug use during her early years, and the influence of her sister in helping her confront those challenges. In recounting those experiences, she has highlighted her commitment to coming back stronger through her music and performances.
As she moves toward the release of a new body of work, fans can expect continued live appearances and elaborations on the themes that have defined her career to date. With Ronson by her side on stage and in production circles, the collaboration promises continued momentum for an artist who has already reshaped the contemporary pop landscape.