Music

Today’s Featured Artist – INTERVIEW – Raylee Forest

Tell us about:

Your latest single you have released:

“Mask”, my latest single, is one of my proudest creations that will take you on an unforgettable journey through time like no others! 

This song not only features unconventional time signature changes, but also beautifully blends classical and contemporary pop elements. As you listen, I want you to feel as if you’re gracefully dancing in an 18th-century ballroom.

The lyrics of “Mask” also hold a special place in my heart. Unlike many songs about “Masks” encouraging self-expression, this one explores a different perspective. It suggests that sometimes, embracing societal roles can make life smoother, while still allowing you to stay true to yourself.

I hope “Mask” will enchant and inspire you, taking you on a musical journey that is both magical and thought-provoking.

Your first single and how you felt when it was released:

“Tired of Waiting” is my debut single, and I wrote this song while waiting at a red light, which we all know can be quite frustrating. I was super excited as I first released the song and saw someone listening to it!

Your favourite song that you have created that is an album track:

My prior release “Puppetry” talks about how we’re manipulated by unspoken societal rules, it will be part of an album track with “Mask”, which talks about putting up disguises and playing by the rules to embrace one’s authentic self. They both explore the relationship between individuals and society, and I want to keep exploring this theme further. 

Your favourite song to play live:

I’ve been singing “Tired of Waiting” live a lot lately, mainly because of its lively tempo and energetic vibe. I like how the audience can sing along or clap along with it. 

The song that was the longest to write and why?

None of the songs I’ve released took me a long time to write, but I do have numerous tracks in my backlog that are currently halfway done. I’m hoping that someday I’ll find fresh inspiration to complete those songs.

Your most emotional track:

“Grown Apart” is a ballad that captures the feeling of growing distant from someone you were once close to as you navigate through life. We all encounter numerous people who enter and exit our lives, and sometimes we find ourselves reminiscing about those times. This song is a tribute to those individuals who were once significant in our lives but have now moved on. It’s a way to remember them and the moments we shared together.

The best lyric you have ever written:

“Every day I put on a different one
Today, time for a grin on front
It’ll be nice and laugh at your lame jokes
When I roll my eyes at ya

Put the mask on, keep the smile on
You will think I am so sweet
No, I won’t hurt your feelings
Don’t be a hater, look at me”

Describe the feeling you get when you walk on stage to do a show:

I’m definitely feeling nervous, but also thrilled to share my music to new listeners!

The hardest track to play live:

I would say that “Mask” is likely the most challenging song to perform live due to its frequent shifts in tempo and time signature. It took me some time to get used to all these changes.

Describe your fans in three words:

Haha, that’s a tough question, but I believe my fans are somewhat like me – Millennials/Gen Z who enjoy dark fantasy. (3 words!)  

A song by another artist or band you wish you had written:

I’ve been listening to “SEVEN” by BTS Jungkook non-stop lately. This song is incredibly catchy, and I wish I could create a track as captivating as that!

What we can look forward to from you this year:

I’ll be releasing another single, called “Trophy Hunter,” just before Halloween. After that, my focus will shift towards working on my first EP. The EP will be an introduction to who I am as an artist. I am excited to show the world what shaped me, my future vision, and my dream. The songs will cover different feelings and experiences, giving listeners a glimpse into my world. 

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