Rei Brown, a New York-based singer and producer, took the music scene by storm, blending indie electronic with lo-fi, rhythm and blues (R&B), and pop to create a dreamy and captivating musical journey. In 2014, he began his journey on SoundCloud under the name “raybaboon.” His music found its foothold on the platform, particularly through his breakout hit, “Picture Frames,” which resonated deeply with a growing audience. This early success fueled Brown’s evolution, paving the way for his 2016 extended play (EP), Lungs, a project that expanded his artistic horizons. The journey continued with noteworthy releases such as “Street Fighter” in 2017, solidifying his place in the hearts of music enthusiasts. In 2022, he collaborated with Joji, a prominent Asian artist in the United States (U.S.). Together, they released the song “Thinking About You,” successfully establishing his presence in the ever-evolving music scene through showcasing his versatility.

Born and raised in Kobe, Japan, Brown’s pursuit of a music career led him to the U.S. to study songwriting at Berklee College of Music in 2011, where he embarked on a path that would see him evolve into a unique and influential artist. Now, under the moniker “rei brown,” he boasts an impressive repertoire with songs over millions of streams on major platforms, including Spotify. He also successfully concluded his world tour “HELL/HEAVEN” alongside Keshi in 2022, solidifying his formidable presence and influence in the global music arena.

A Fusion of Emotions and Genres

Brown’s music is often a mesmerizing fusion spiced with a touch of Japanese influence. His songs are characterized by atmospheric sounds, emotive vocals, and introspective lyrics. What makes rei brown truly exceptional is his ability to blend these different genres seamlessly, creating a unique sonic landscape that resonates with a wide audience. His genre-blending ability is evident in his song, “Honest,” where he combines soulful vocals with a smooth melody, creating a dreamy atmosphere that invites the listener to delve into their own emotions. In contrast, “Waiting for You” features a catchy pop beat, showcasing his artistic versatility. This unpredictability keeps his audience eagerly awaiting his next release, as they embark on a musical journey together where the destination remains unpredictable.

Exploring Deep Themes through Music

Brown explores profound themes such as love, heartbreak, and self-discovery through his music. His lyrics often delve into the complex terrain of human emotions, inviting listeners to introspect and connect on a personal level. In “Xeno,” he explores the theme of feeling like an outsider: “What am I made of, that you’re afraid of? Am I contagious? I wanna wake up.” These lyrics reflect the sentiment of being perceived as different and facing the alienation that often accompanies it. Being of Japanese and American heritage, Brown inhabits a distinctive cultural background that sets him apart. The inquiry “What am I made of?” emerges from his experiences of being misunderstood and at times rejected, particularly in his encounters as a perceived foreigner in Japan. Furthermore, in Joji’s song “Normal People” featuring rei brown, they both explore the theme of feeling like outsiders in a world that often values conformity over individuality. The lyrics “We can pretend we’re normal people” resonate with those who have ever felt the weight of societal expectations and struggled to find their place.

Rei Brown’s music transcends mere melodies and lyrics, offering a profound exploration of human emotion and the quest for belonging in a complex world. His genre-blending artistry and emotive storytelling render him a distinctive artist worth discovering. His soulful melodies and introspective verses offer solace and empathy, reaffirming the beauty of embracing uniqueness and outsider status.