With her debut EP Daybreak, Rayka Blake brings her heartfelt journey to life. In our chat, she opens up about the emotions driving her songs, the powerful message behind Indifference Replaced My Love, and her vision for a more inclusive heavy music scene.
Reuel
Hello Rayka! I am happy to have this chat with you. How are you doing?
Rayka Blake
Hi Reuel! I’m doing well, thank you, and I’m also really happy to be here.
Reuel
Your debut Daybreak is finally out! How does it feel to finally release this EP into the world, and what’s the reaction so far?
Rayka Blake
Releasing my EP was a moment of pure joy and fulfillment. Sharing something so personal—my music and lyrics—with the world is really exciting and gratifying. The reaction so far has been very positive! I’ve received so many messages from people who found themselves in my songs, which makes me realize that my music has managed to deeply touch those who listen to it, and that is the most important thing for me.
Reuel
How would you describe your music to someone who hasn’t heard it before?
Rayka Blake
I’d describe my music as an emotional journey, a blend of sounds, melodies, and straightforward lyrics that tell real, unfiltered emotions. It’s strong pop-rock, where I aim to convey an authentic emotional charge that makes listeners feel every word and note.
Reuel
Indifference Replaced My Love has such a powerful message. Can you share a bit about the inspiration behind the song and how those emotions shaped the track?
Rayka Blake
The inspiration for the song comes from strong and universal emotions, like pain, anger, and the desire for redemption, weaving together fragments of experiences that many people can relate to. I wanted to transform those feelings into a powerful and liberating force. These emotions influenced both the lyrics and the energy of the track. I chose to use intense riffs and dynamic shifts to reflect the contrast between the toughest moments and the strength found in overcoming them.
Reuel
The process of creating a new album involves many stages, from writing and recording to marketing. What was your favorite part of making Daybreak, and what was the most challenging aspect?
Rayka Blake
Definitely, my favorite part was composing the music: when I find myself alone, immersed in my world, with my electric guitar, paper, a pen to write lyrics and chords, and a song begins to take shape—it’s as if I enter another dimension, where I feel wonderfully at ease and in perfect harmony with myself. Those moments of musical creation are truly magical, an experience that makes me feel incredibly alive. Marketing is a crucial aspect, but it requires a lot of attention and time, and it can sometimes detract from the creative side. However, it’s necessary to bring your music to the public and make it known.
Reuel
Wonderful way to put it! If each song on Daybreak were a character, which one would be the “rebel” of the group?
Rayka Blake
To me, being ‘rebellious’ means breaking boundaries and having the courage to express something authentic, even when it might be uncomfortable. In Daybreak, there are several songs that embody this rebellious spirit: each one, in its own way, tackles intense themes without filters. It’s like each track wants to shake up the listener, creating an authentic and immediate connection with deep emotions.
Reuel
If you could collaborate with any artist, dead or alive, who would it be and why?
Rayka Blake
There are so many artists I admire across various musical genres, but as for the rock scene, I think I’d choose to collaborate with Guns N’ Roses. Their music has profoundly marked the history of rock, and they have a unique energy and expressive power that speaks straight to the audience. Working with them would be an incredible opportunity to create something special, and collaborating with musicians of this caliber would be a great source of inspiration and artistic growth.
Reuel
How do you feel about the representation of women in heavy music today, and what do you think can be done to promote more inclusivity and support for female musicians?
Rayka Blake
I think female representation in heavy music is growing, and today there are incredible artists making important contributions, showing that talent and passion have no gender. To further promote inclusivity and support, I believe it’s important to give more visibility to women in heavy music through festivals, media, and social platforms. Creating more opportunities and spaces for female musicians allows each artist to freely express their style and personality, so everyone can make their voice heard and contribute to the richness of the music scene without barriers.
Reuel
Thank you for your time, Rayka, and for this interview! Is there anything else you’d like to conclude this interview with?
Rayka Blake
Thank you for the opportunity and for this interview! I’d like to conclude by reminding everyone to keep following their passion and not be afraid to express their voice. Music is a universal language that can bring people together and inspire change. Thank you again!
