RAYE recently spoke about her interaction with Taylor Swift at the iHeartRadio Music Awards 2026 held in Los Angeles. During a conversation on the sidelines of the event, RAYE shared that she had spoken to Swift and asked her for advice on different aspects of performing.
RAYE said that she has had a few conversations with Taylor Swift and enjoyed them. She mentioned, “I’ve had the pleasure of having a couple of beautiful conversations with her, and I really, really like her,” and added that she was hoping to meet her again during the event.
One of the main things RAYE was curious about was how Taylor Swift manages her long concerts. Swift is known for performing shows that last around three hours. Talking about this, RAYE said, “I was actually asking her, ‘How do you do your show for three hours?’ She has a three-hour show, which is insane! I was like, ‘How do you do it?’” She added that Swift shared some tips and explained how she manages such long performances.
RAYE also asked about something more specific. She was interested in how Taylor Swift keeps her red lipstick in place during performances. She said, “I also asked about her red lipstick because you know, it never moves,” and added, “The problem is when I sing, mine goes all over my face. So I was like, ‘How do you do it?’ She’s given me some tips.”
Later that evening, RAYE performed at the Dolby Theatre. She sang her song WHERE IS MY HUSBAND! while wearing a red outfit that matched her lipstick. During her performance, the audience, including Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce, was seen enjoying the moment.
RAYE also presented an award to Taylor Swift for Best Pop Album for her album The Life of a Showgirl. During her speech, Swift said she is a “massive fan” of RAYE. Earlier, RAYE had also performed as an opening act for Swift’s tour in London in 2024.
The event took place around the time RAYE released her second album THIS MUSIC MAY CONTAIN HOPE. The album includes 17 tracks and features collaborations with Hans Zimmer, Al Green, and her sisters Amma and Absolutely.
Talking about her music, RAYE said, “A lot of My 21st Century Blues, I was up in the clouds… I like that I’ve come down to earth to write these lyrics. I prefer myself like this.” She also described music as something personal, saying, “Music is medicine… I’m in the process of making medicine for myself that I can share with the world.”
Her recent work and experiences show that she is continuing to grow in her career while learning from other artists.