Corinne Bailey Rae’s Journey Through Music and Life

Correspondent Seth Doane, based in Rome, offers insight into the rise of Corinne Bailey Rae, a celebrated musician who transformed her career from humble beginnings.

Before achieving fame, Rae worked in the coat check at the Hi-Fi Club in Leeds, England. This is where her journey to stardom began. A record label noticed her talent during an audition in this very place. Her acclaimed single ‘Like a Star’ emerged from this moment, followed by the hit ‘Put Your Records On.’

“Maybe sometimes we feel afraid, but it’s alright…”

The song encourages self-acceptance and reflects Rae’s personal experiences. As a person of mixed race in Leeds, she sometimes felt out of place. These feelings of being on the margins influenced her music deeply.

Rae shared her desire to play the cello during her childhood. However, limited resources meant she instead learned the violin. Despite these challenges, she grew fond of her choice. Her voice initially made her feel self-conscious, yet idols like Billie Holiday and Kurt Cobain inspired her. Their distinctive styles showed Rae music need not be flawless.

The release of Rae’s 2006 debut album catapulted her onto the music scene. It brought her into contact with legends like Stevie Wonder and Prince. However, in 2008, personal tragedy struck when her husband Jason Rae passed away from an accidental overdose. Rae described the period as overwhelming, likening it to the end of her life as she knew it.

She released her second album, ‘The Sea,’ during this time. Collaborator Steve Brown played a significant role in Rae’s professional and personal life. Jason’s mother encouraged Rae to consider a relationship with Brown, which blossomed into a marriage in 2013. Together, they now have two daughters.

Rae has continued to produce music, earning critical acclaim. Her contributions to culture are recognized in her hometown with the sculpture ‘Ribbons.’ Created by Pippa Hale, ‘Ribbons’ celebrates over 300 influential women from Leeds, including Rae.

Recently, Rae published a children’s book based on her popular song. The release coincides with the celebration of her first album’s anniversary, including a tour that began at the Cheltenham Jazz Festival.

Despite the pressures of the music industry, Rae maintains a focus on creative freedom. She emphasized the importance of rebirth, highlighting that anyone can reinvent themselves at any age or stage in life.

For more on Corinne Bailey Rae’s enduring story, visit her official website for tour and book info.