Sunrays (prod. Brian Cameriino)

Shaq Rayes is the first son of two DJs who met in the UK club scene during the 90s. With his mother also enjoying a lengthy career in Latin dance, it’s no surprise that he has a profound ear for trending sounds, catchy melodies, and smooth beats that get people moving their feet.

In 2021, Rayes hit the ground running with debut singles ‘Money’ and ‘Remedy’ collectively gathering over 900 million views from TikTok users implementing the songs in their videos and commercials. This was a unique feat accomplished independently.

At this time also, Rayes had simultaneously begun to develop a name as a composer in the South Korean music scene. With credits alongside some of K-Pop’s biggest stars such as EXO, NCT and Monsta X, he still regularly collaborates remotely with South Korean producers, writers, and publishers.

With comparisons to Justin Bieber, Ed Sheeran, Shawn Mendes, and The Weeknd, Rayes' music is sonically diverse yet easy on the ear. Growing up in Manchester, one of the most multi-cultural cities in the world, Rayes is inspired by fusions of genre and, being of a distinctive mixed heritage, he has always maintained a defiant attitude towards to labels in general. Whether it’s the Afro-infused anthem of ‘Take Control’, or HipHop-tinged bass-line of ‘GAME OVER’, Rayes weaves effortlessly in and out of styles where most other artists wouldn’t dare venture.

Lyrically, his music explores a diverse range of concepts such as the entanglements of love, the growing pains of adulthood, and the fragility of life. Furthermore, the mere fact that his entire discography so far is entirely self-produced and composed is a badge not many can boast.

Sunrays (prod. Brian Cameriino)

Bryant Taylorr