Richardine Bartee
“I can’t wait to get back.”
Have you travelled lately? Is it a singular experience, or has getting out of international airports become a nightmare? We are deeply affected by and experiencing the remnants of the monstrous global pandemic. COVID-19 crippled our society and left us with staffing issues (causing major delays), crankier employees wanting you to join them in their misery, and dealing with people who aren’t experienced with customer service. So, when I heard Rebel Rae’s new single ‘Layover’, I could painfully relate.
Before we get into the song and video, there are some things you need to know about Rebel Rae. The budding R&B/Soul artist from Washington, DC, represents a culturally diverse backdrop, setting the tone for her music as a songwriter and artist. Influenced by notable artists such as Macy Gray, Lauryn Hill and Otis Redding, Rae’s music is an extension of her journey through her voice, and that sound has resonated with audiences globally. In 2020, she released her debut album through Sony Music’s Orchard. Now, Rae is preparing for the release of her second album, ‘From DC with Love’, early next year.
In 2019, the Los Angeles-based singer-songwriter joined Ari Lennox on the European leg of her “Shea Butter Baby” tour. She performed to sold-out crowds, and although she was having fun, she started to miss her partner, and that’s the inspiration for ‘Layover’.
About the lead single from her forthcoming sophomore album, she said:
If you’ve ever been away from your lover for long periods of time, this song is for you. It captures the feeling I felt being overseas in London for months while having someone that I was into all the way back in Los Angeles. Of course if you hold out for that person, the anticipation will be there as you head back to them and you get this song.
