Ravyn Lenae Washington, better known as Ravyn Lenae, was born on January 22, 1999, in Chicago, Illinois. She was raised in the Pullman neighborhood as a member of the Pullman Christian Reformed Church. Her grandfather, Richard Williams, served as the pastor of the congregation for over three decades, instilling in Lenae a deep sense of community and spirituality.
Lenae discovered her passion for music at a young age and began writing songs during middle school. Her dedication to her craft led her to attend the prestigious Chicago High School for the Arts, where she studied classical music. It was during this time that Lenae honed her skills as a singer and songwriter, preparing her for a successful career in the music industry.
In 2015, Lenae independently released her debut EP titled Moon Shoes, showcasing her unique blend of R&B and soulful melodies. The EP garnered critical acclaim and caught the attention of Atlantic Records, leading to Lenae signing with the prestigious label. Atlantic Records reissued Moon Shoes in 2016, further solidifying Lenae's place in the music industry.
Lenae's talent and artistry quickly gained recognition, leading her to collaborate with esteemed artists such as SZA and Noname. She joined SZA on her CTrl Tour and toured with Noname on her Telefone Tour, further solidifying her presence in the R&B music scene.
Lenae also became affiliated with the music group Zero Fatigue/323, expanding her network and opportunities within the industry. This partnership allowed Lenae to explore new creative avenues and reach a wider audience with her music.
In 2017, Lenae released her follow-up EP titled Midnight Moonlight, showcasing her growth as an artist and her evolving sound. The EP received widespread praise from fans and critics alike, solidifying Lenae as a rising star in the R&B genre.
Despite her rapid rise to fame, Lenae remains grounded in her roots and values, drawing inspiration from her upbringing in the Pullman neighborhood. Her strong family ties and spiritual foundation continue to influence her music and artistic vision, setting her apart as a unique and authentic voice in the industry.
As a young R&B singer and songwriter, Ravyn Lenae Washington has already made a significant impact in the music industry, showcasing her talent and artistry with each project she releases. With a bright future ahead, Lenae is poised to continue breaking barriers and captivating audiences with her soulful vocals and heartfelt lyrics.