“Strange Thing” is the new single from Manchester-based songwriter and musician Dee Rae, taken from their upcoming debut EP ‘The WorstIs Over’ – out 12th September via Leeds-based label Come Play With Me. Dee Rae is one of four artists who have been selected for Next Up North, an artist development programme run by the label. It is the first programme that looks to specifically support emerging artists of marginalised genders and sexualities from the North of England.
“Strange Thing” blends sun-drenched indie-folk textures with heartfelt lyricism. The track explores the dreamy intensity of first love – specifically, the yearning for a sapphic romance with an overseas lover, and the in-between moments in the aftermath of a relationship where memory and imagined moments begin to blur.
Dee Rae Live Dates:
- 23rd May – Hyde Park Book Club, Leeds
- 24th May – The Waiting Room, London
- 25th May – YES (The Basement), Manchester
Channelling the warmth and earnestness of artists like Big Thief and Billie Marten and citing the likes of Jacob Alon and TTSSFU amongst their peers, “StrangeThing” is the perfect soundtrack for a wistful summer evening; “I imagine it playing driving with the windows down on a quiet country lane”, Dee Rae adds. With their debut single “Purple and Red” receiving support from DIY Magazine, Selector Radio and Tom Robinson’s Fresh on the Net, 2025 looks to be a year of exciting momentum building behind Dee Rae. Heading out on their first UK tour at the end of May, they’re quickly cementing their place as one of the most promising new voices in indie folk.
Released 12th September, ‘The Worst Is Over’ is a 4-track project that navigates topics ranging from queer identity and self-expression to trauma and personal growth. The EP was produced by Rhys Jjang (MYTBE, Katie Rigby) and mixed by Joel Johnston (Far Caspian, Ellur, SOMOH, Big Warm Bed). It showcases Dee Rae’s talent for vulnerable and authentic storytelling, drawing inspiration from the likes of Laura Marling, Marika Hackman and Snail Mail. Through this music, Dee Rae strives to not only build a career in music, but to create a community of listeners who are looking to connect and resonate through music, over their honest and inclusive sound.
Having first emerged onto the scene with 2022 single ‘Silver Wallet’, Dee Rae’s endearingly vulnerable songwriting has steadily been garnering a global audience. From sharing stages with the likes of Francis of Delirium, Katy Kirby, Allegra Krieger and The Orielles, to playing 2023’s Live At Leeds, and a recent international debut show in Paris, the indie folk singer has been building their reputation as a must-see live performer.
Add as a preferred source