Ravyn Lenae, a Chicago-born singer and songwriter, first drew attention with her debut single “Greetings,” merging her airy vocals with a futuristic R&B sound that distinguished her in the music industry. Emerging from the vibrant Chicago music scene, she quickly evolved into a genre-blending artist known for her soulful melodies and thought-provoking lyrics. As we explore her artistic journey, we pay homage to her discography, including her latest LP, Bird’s Eye, which highlights her ongoing innovation and deepening musical sophistication.
Ravyn Lenae’s 2016 EP, Moon Shoes, introduced a fresh and innovative sound that far exceeded expectations for a 17-year-old artist. Originally released as a free download by the Chicago collective Zero Fatigue, the EP was later re-released with two additional tracks after Ravyn signed with Three Twenty Three Music Group. The project artfully combined elements of jazz, hip hop, R&B, soul, and electronic music, offering a distinctive and complex sonic experience. Tracks like “Moon Shoes,” “Greetings,” and “Free Room” (featuring Appleby) showcased her unique vocal abilities and seamless genre fusion. With a vocal style reminiscent of Erykah Badu and a clear defiance of traditional labels, Ravyn Lenae quickly emerged as a compelling new artist, making a significant impact as she began to carve out her own artistic identity.
When Steve Lacy, known for his work with The Internet and his contributions to Kendrick Lamar’s DAMN., took on the project of producing an EP for Ravyn Lenae, he saw it as a major creative opportunity. Released in 2019, Crush revealed the extraordinary chemistry between Lacy and Lenae, with Lacy’s inventive production complementing Lenae’s versatile vocals. On tracks like “Sticky,” Lenae’s voice effortlessly wove through Lacy’s unconventional melodies, creating a sound that felt both fresh and captivating. Lenae’s earlier work, including tours with Noname and SZA, hinted at her potential, but Crush fully realized that promise. Songs like “Closer” and “Computer Luv” highlighted Lacy’s dreamy guitar paired with Lenae’s expressive vocals, capturing the essence of modern love and introspection in a way that deeply resonated with listeners.
Ravyn Lenae’s debut album, HYPNOS, is a powerful showcase of her vocal talent and lyrical depth, with each track providing a unique window into her artistic world. The Kaytranada-produced “Xtasy” stands out with its sultry melodies, as Lenae’s voice glides effortlessly over the beat, creating a captivating listening experience. “Lullabye,” a poignant farewell to a former lover, features Lenae’s ethereal harmonies, underscoring her emotional maturity and poise. On “M.I.A.,” she embraces escapism with a cool, slick delivery, while “3D” features a playful groove with Monte Booker and Smino that delves into the nuances of relationships. The album’s centerpiece, “Light Me Up,” is a slow-burning exploration of sensuality, driven by Lenae’s airy falsetto and evocative lyrics. Closing with the heartfelt “Wish,” Lenae reflects on hope and spiritual affirmation. Each track on HYPNOS underscores Lenae’s mastery of her craft, making it a compelling and memorable project.
Ravyn Lenae captivated her audience with a soft, ethereal voice and distinctive musical flair, reflecting her artistic evolution since the release of Crush. During her return to COLORS Studios, she performed the soulful track “Inside Out,” accompanied by harpist Nailah Hunter. Her gentle, almost whispered vocals brought a deeply personal touch to the performance, which centered on themes of self-love and overcoming insecurities. Her poised stage presence was accentuated by a bold outfit—a striking red, asymmetrical top paired with vibrant green pants—that stood out against the muted backdrop, ensuring that all attention was focused on the powerful emotions she conveyed through her music. Ravyn Lenae’s performance was a clear testament to her growth as an artist and the inspiring message of resilience she shares with her listeners.
In Bird’s Eye, Lenae embarks on a daring journey of musical exploration, pushing the boundaries of her sound under the guidance of executive producer Dahi. Departing from the fluidity of her previous album, HYPNOS, Bird’s Eye ventures into new sonic territories, blending downtempo guitar, reggae-pop, and Brainfeeder-esque beats. Lenae’s signature falsetto navigates through a diverse array of sounds, from electro zaps to swirling pop and taut rock, as exemplified by the album’s opener “Genius.” Her lyrics delve into themes of love, grief, and self-doubt with a newfound sense of freedom. Tracks like “Love Me Not” and “Love Is Blind” explore the complexities of romantic desire, while “One Wish” tenderly addresses the lingering impact of her father’s absence. Even in quieter moments, Lenae’s expansive soprano and intricate production captivate, creating a vivid, dynamic world where she fearlessly searches for understanding. Bird’s Eye positions Lenae as an artist unafraid to experiment, with her curiosity only tempered by the uncertainties she confronts within herself.
Listen to Ravyn Lenae’s Bird’s Eye below!
