Ravyn Lenae

Ravyn Lenae Washington, born on January 22, 1999, in Chicago, Illinois, is a rising star in the R&B scene, celebrated for her mesmerizing vocals and unique fusion of genres. Growing up in the Pullman neighborhood, Ravyn was deeply influenced by her Panamanian roots and her grandfather, who was part of a doo-wop group. This early exposure to music helped shape her artistry. She attended the Chicago High School for the Arts, where she honed her vocal skills, particularly in classical music, setting the stage for her versatile sound.

Lenae’s music career took off in 2015 with the release of her debut EP, Moon Shoes. The EP was later reissued by Atlantic Records in 2016, marking the start of her professional journey. A key member of the Zero Fatigue collective, which includes artists like Smino and Monte Booker, Ravyn’s sound has evolved with each release. Her subsequent EPs, Midnight Moonlight (2017) and Crush (2018), were met with critical acclaim, showcasing her growing artistic depth.

In 2022, Lenae released her highly anticipated debut album, Hypnos, which blended R&B, soul, and Afrobeats, drawing comparisons to icons like Aaliyah and Solange. Her 2024 album, Bird’s Eye, featured collaborations with Ty Dolla $ign and Childish Gambino, exploring themes of love, heartbreak, and personal growth.

Beyond her recordings, Lenae has toured with major artists like SZA and Noname and performed at iconic festivals like Coachella and Afropunk. With her captivating sound and growing influence, Ravyn Lenae continues to cement her place as a leading voice in contemporary R&B.