Mark Ronson has joined forces with rising star Raye for the new single, ‘Suzanne’. This collaboration showcases Ronson’s signature vintage sound while highlighting Raye’s contemporary artistry, marking a significant moment in both of their careers.
Ronson, renowned as a hitmaker, has a history of successful collaborations, including the global sensation ‘Uptown Funk’ with Bruno Mars and the Oscar-winning ‘Shallow’ with Lady Gaga. His extensive career began as an amateur DJ in New York City, where he developed his craft in the vibrant nightlife of the 1990s. Now 49, he is reflecting on his journey through his memoir, Night People, which explores his experiences in New York’s hip hop nightclubs.
In a recent interview with Dylan Lewis on Double J, Ronson expressed enthusiasm for his partnership with Raye. He noted that their creative chemistry sparked the creation of ‘Suzanne’, a smooth blend of soul that echoes his earlier work while remaining fresh. Raye, a prominent figure in the London music scene, initially felt apprehensive about collaborating with Ronson due to his previous work with Amy Winehouse. She acknowledged the comparisons but emphasized her admiration for Winehouse, stating, “I know I can never, ever replace or imitate Amy.”
Raye, whose real name is Rachel Agatha Keen, has made waves in the music industry with her eclectic style, blending old-school jazz and R&B with modern pop and electronic influences. After parting ways with Polydor in 2021, she found her voice as an independent artist, culminating in her critically acclaimed debut album, My 21st Century Blues. Her remarkable success at the 2023 BRIT Awards, where she won six out of seven nominations, solidified her status as a leading artist in the UK.
Ronson has long admired Raye’s talent, noting her impact on the music landscape. “Even though I’ve lived in America since I was eight, I am English,” he remarked. “When I see another English artist really come up… I’ve just been cheering her on as a fan.” His mentorship of emerging talent, including Brooklyn-based artists, reflects his commitment to fostering the next generation of musicians.
The collaboration on ‘Suzanne’ represents a return to the retro sounds that propelled Ronson to fame. He acknowledged the lasting influence of Winehouse on his work, stating, “For a little while, everything I did sounded like that.” The song features a blend of smooth bass lines, gentle guitar strokes, and warm brass, with Raye’s lyrics painting a vivid portrait of longing and admiration.
During the recording process, Raye suggested the title ‘Suzanne’, a coincidence that resonated with Ronson, as he had recently lost a family friend named Suzanne. He described the experience as a “lovely, cathartic release” and highlighted the organic nature of their collaboration. “We just liked it. We were like, ‘Let’s just put it out,’” he said.
Looking ahead, Ronson and Raye have already completed a second collaboration, which he describes as having a “Memphis Atlantic record, kind of 60s feeling.” The duo’s dynamic energy has opened the door for future projects. “I do hope so,” Ronson concluded, expressing his admiration for Raye’s artistry and the creative freedom they shared during their collaboration.
With ‘Suzanne’, Mark Ronson and Raye have crafted a piece that not only pays homage to their musical roots but also embraces the evolution of contemporary sound. As both artists continue to shape their paths in the industry, this partnership signifies a promising new chapter in their careers.
