Ray BLK - Courage (Official Video)
Today, July 24th, marks the beginning of a new chapter for the beloved singer Ray BLK, with the release of her new single ‘Courage’ produced by Ray Michael. ‘Courage’ symbolises Ray’s independence, her return to herself, and a story she feels compelled to share, aiming to connect with those who need it most. Over the past two transformative years, she has navigated an incredibly toxic relationship, inspiring the most vulnerable song of her career, and has rebuilt her life piece by piece. Taking the reins in all areas of her life and career, her music now reflects her newfound autonomy and purpose. The video for ‘Courage’ showcases a powerful on-stage theatre performance where Ray eloquently articulates her experiences of an abusive ex. Transforming her pain into art and channelling all the good in her life, Ray picks up right where she left off, emerging more herself than ever before.
Ray BLK, short for Building, Living, Knowing, is a Nigerian-born singer, songwriter, actress, and entrepreneur from South London. Her debut mixtape, 'Havisham,’ drew inspiration from Charles Dickens's Great Expectations, telling a story of heartbreak and empowerment, introducing her to the British audience in 2016. In a remarkable achievement, Ray became the first and only unsigned artist to win BBC's Sound of Music 2017 award. Her debut EP, 'Durt' (2016), featured SG Lewis, Wretch 32, and her breakthrough hit 'My Hood' featuring Stormzy. She followed it up with 'Empress,' a project full of self-love anthems, including her critically acclaimed hit 'Run Run,' which tackles youth violence. Her uncompromising lyricism and vulnerability took centre stage in her highly anticipated debut album, 'Access Denied' (2021), earning Ray a No. 1 album on the R&B chart and critical acclaim from The Guardian, NME, and The Evening Standard. This album marked the culmination of tireless efforts to release her music, bringing an unexpected end to a challenging relationship with a major label in 2022. Not known to many, Ray attended drama school throughout her youth. In 2023, she made her acting debut in BBC's series 'Champion' by Candice Carty-Williams, playing the role of 'Honey' and serving as Music Executive alongside Ghetts. She ended an incredible year as the voice of the official Marks & Spencer Christmas campaign and now has her first feature film and a US drama series in the works due for a 2025 release. Ray truly is a woman of endless talent which was celebrated when she was included in the Forbes 30 under 30, followed by touring with Nicki Minaj, and her own sold-out US and UK tours. Her previous collaborations include The Gorillaz, Wyclef Jean, and Beenie Man. Her creative pursuits extend beyond music and acting, as she launched her nail brand, 'Blklisted’ alongside investors Barry M.
Inspired by her 2016 self and the likes of Mary J Blige, Kelis and Ms Dynamite, Ray embarks on a new chapter with no intention of looking back. ‘Courage’ sets the tone for what Ray intends to be her most honest, and truthful chapter so far. Through sharing her experiences, Ray hopes to help others avoid and escape what she went through whilst drawing attention to the warning signs of toxic relationships. Ray continues to prove there are no limits to her talents and where they will take her.