British singer, songwriter and producer RAYE has added two major industry honours to her growing list of achievements after being named GQ\u2019s Woman of the Year 2026 and Variety\u2019s Hitmaker of the Year 2026.<\/p>\n
The double recognition celebrates a remarkable period for the 29-year-old artist, whose success has continued to grow since she became an independent musician.<\/p>\n
RAYE was featured in British GQ\u2019s Men of the Year 2026 issue, with a cover story and photoshoot by photographer Jenny Brough. In an interview with the magazine, she reflected on her journey through the music industry, her departure from former label Polydor and the creative freedom she has enjoyed since going independent.<\/p>\n
Her recognition by Variety comes with another historic milestone. She becomes the first independent artist to receive the publication\u2019s Hitmaker of the Year honour. She will officially be celebrated at the 10th annual Variety Hitmakers event in Los Angeles on December 5.<\/p>\n
Variety\u2019s Executive Music Editor, Jem Aswad, praised her artistry, songwriting and advocacy for independent musicians and songwriters.<\/p>\n
The honours arrive following an impressive year for RAYE. Her second studio album, THIS MUSIC MAY CONTAIN HOPE., debuted at No. 1 on the UK Albums Chart and went on to win the 2026 Mercury Prize.<\/p>\n
She also continued to build on the global success of her catalogue, with more than 10 billion cumulative Spotify streams. Her recent releases and performances have further strengthened her position as one of the most influential British artists of her generation.<\/p>\n
Other Variety Hitmakers 2026 honourees include Olivia Rodrigo, who will receive Songwriter of the Year, KATSEYE as Group of the Year and Sienna Spiro as Visionary Voice.<\/p>\n
For RAYE, the two recognitions represent more than commercial success. They also highlight her journey from years of frustration under a major-label deal to building a successful career on her own terms.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
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