Jordan Rakei

Biography

Jordan Rakei is a New Zealand-born, Australia-raised musician, celebrated for his soulful vocals, intricate production, and genre-blending artistry. Born in Tokoroa, New Zealand, on May 23, 1992, Rakei moved to Brisbane, Australia, where he developed his musical talents and released his first two EPs, 'Franklin’s Room' and 'Groove Curse,' by age 21[6][1][3]. His early work was characterized by a DIY, bedroom-produced aesthetic, drawing on influences from neo soul, jazz, and electronic music.

Seeking broader horizons, Rakei relocated to London in 2015, immersing himself in the city’s vibrant soul, jazz, and electronic scenes[2][7]. He quickly gained recognition for his debut album 'Cloak' (2016), followed by 'Wallflower' (2017), which showcased his evocative songwriting and willingness to experiment with stripped-back acoustic arrangements[1][7]. Rakei’s subsequent albums, including 'Origin' (2019) and 'What We Call Life' (2021), further cemented his reputation as a masterful producer and multi-instrumentalist, with themes ranging from technology’s impact on society to personal introspection[3][4]. His fifth album, 'The Loop' (2024), marks a new chapter, featuring bold orchestral arrangements and deeply personal narratives reflecting his journey through marriage and fatherhood[1][4][5].

Rakei’s musical style is rooted in indie soul and neo soul, with influences from Stevie Wonder, Bill Withers, Curtis Mayfield, and D’Angelo[1]. His ability to blend genres and collaborate with a diverse array of artists has made him a sought-after figure in contemporary music, earning him GRAMMY and Ivor Novello nominations. With over a billion streams and sold-out shows at venues like London’s Royal Albert Hall, Rakei’s legacy is defined by his innovation, emotional depth, and commitment to pushing musical boundaries[5][1].

Fun Facts

• Jordan Rakei performs under the dance music alias 'Dan Kye' for his electronic releases[5].
• He sold out London’s Royal Albert Hall immediately upon announcing his fifth album, 'The Loop'[5].
• Rakei set himself a personal goal to release five albums before turning 30, which he achieved[2].
• His third album, 'Origin', was inspired by dystopian TV shows like 'Black Mirror' and 'The Handmaid’s Tale'[3].

Musical Connections

Mentors/Influences

• Stevie Wonder - Major stylistic influence; Rakei cites Wonder as a formative inspiration for his love of soul and ambitious arrangements. (General influence, especially on 'The Loop') [Childhood to present]
• Bill Withers - Influence on songwriting and vocal style; Rakei revisited Withers' music while writing recent albums. (General influence, especially on 'The Loop') [Childhood to present]
• Curtis Mayfield - Inspired Rakei’s approach to soul and narrative songwriting. (General influence) [Childhood to present]
• D’Angelo - Influence on neo soul sound and vocal delivery. (General influence) [Childhood to present]

Key Collaborators

• Tom Misch - Frequent collaborator in London’s soul-electronic scene; co-productions and live performances. (Various singles and live shows) [2015–present]
• Loyle Carner - Co-wrote and produced tracks including 'Ottolenghi' and 'Loose Ends'; close friend and collaborator. ('Ottolenghi', 'Loose Ends' (feat. Jorja Smith)) [2018–present]
• Jorja Smith - Featured on collaborative single 'Loose Ends' with Loyle Carner. ('Loose Ends') [2019]
• Common - Legendary rapper who recorded a new verse for Rakei’s single 'Signs'. ('Signs' (deluxe edition)) [2020]
• Bradley Zero - Founder of Rhythm Section International; helped Rakei connect with London’s music scene. (Facilitated early London collaborations) [2015–present]

Artists Influenced

• Dan Kye - Rakei’s own dance music alias, showcasing his influence on electronic and dance genres. (Dan Kye releases) [2016–present]

Discography

Albums

Top Tracks

1. Ottolenghi (Not Waving, But Drowning)
2. Celebrate
3. Shadows (Fragments)
4. Borderline (Origin (Deluxe Edition))
5. Midnight Mischief (Tom Misch Remix)
6. Trust (The Loop)
7. Typical (Shape The Future)
8. Learn to Fly
9. Wake Up This Day (Beat Tape 2)
10. Shadows

External Links

• Spotify
• Wikipedia
• MusicBrainz

Tags: #alternative-r&b, #neosoul, #r&b