Let’s talk about your single “Boys Like You” – Can you tell us a bit about the song and the creation/recording process?
I love the creative process of writing songs, you never know what you are going to get when you go into the studio. “Boys Like You” was not really something I planned. It came out of a very personal experience. I was in a pretty unhealthy relationship where no matter how badly I was being treated, I kept going back. Once I realized it and that I didn’t need him anymore, I got out! Writing the single “Boys Like You” is actually what helped me to get OUT of that bad relationship. I really wanted to share the experience because so many girls may be going through the same thing. The song really has an empowering message and I’m so excited by the support and reaction it has been getting.
Can you share about the kinds of songs you write and what motivates you when you’re writing a song?
All aspects of my life give me ideas for songs. Things my friends are going through, things I see at the movies or events that are going on in the world, even a conversation I have with someone can spark an idea for a new song. My songs are like my personal diary I just let the world see. Lately I have been writing really happy songs and songs that I think are empowering to woman today.
How would you describe your sound?
My sound is definitely a little more on the pop side. Honestly, I just love to create music so I don’t usually put a box on my sound, I sort of let it figure itself out.
Which artists are you looking up to now?
My music taste changes all the time. Currently I really like Ed Sheeran, because of the way he writes his music and does his live performances. It’s very acoustic and feels very real. Camila Cabello is another artist who I really like her sound and her independence. She seems authentic and like that she’s her own person. And also, Halsey because she is just so dope and I would love to sing with her someday.
If you could collaborate with any other artist, who would it be?
That’s a really hard question because there are hundreds of people I could pick, but right now I would probably choose Ed Sheeran. I’m so intrigued on his writing styles and how authentic he is, so I think it’d be so cool to experience a session with him.
What can fans be expecting from you in the near future?
Definitely new music on the way! I’ve filmed music videos for some of my new material that I’m really excited to be released. And I have a few surprises coming as well!
What do you like to do for fun when you’re not in the studio?
I recently got my driver’s license so this summer my friends and I have spent a lot of time at the beach. I really love hanging with my friends and being a normal teenager.
Where can we find you on social media?
Instagram: @rayla
Twitter: @rayla
BIO:
Rayla is an impressive, emerging singer/songwriter who is making waves in the music industry. Handpicked to open for the likes of Daya, Olivia Holt and Jana Kramer, this 17-year-old’s fresh, unique sound delivers songs that are packed with relatable lyrics. Her debut single “Boys Like You” has received an overwhelmingly positive response. She loves to be able to put her own original stamp on the music she creates, as evidenced both in her covers of popular songs, and in her original music.
As a toddler, Rayla would find any stage on which to perform, including on top of her family’s dishwasher. Writing her first song at the age of five, Rayla credits Halsey, Camila Cabello, Taylor Swift, and Ed Sheeran to be major influences to her career. Music has always been a dominate part of her life and she is eager to make her own imprint in the music scene.
