Frankie Raye’s story is a testament to perseverance, passion, and the pursuit of one’s dreams. Born and raised in a small town in Midwestern Ohio, Frankie’s love for music began at an early age. Her parents were musicians, performing at local restaurants and small venues. Frankie often begged for the chance to join them on stage, eager to showcase her voice. This early exposure to live performance and the vibrant world of music would lay the foundation for what would become her life’s calling.
After her parents’ divorce, Frankie and her mother moved to Tampa, Florida. It was here that her musical journey truly began to take shape. Nights spent harmonizing with her mother to the music of Joni Mitchell, Rickie Lee Jones, and Jewel helped cultivate a deep appreciation for lyrical storytelling. While her peers were drawn to the mainstream pop hits of the early 2000s, Frankie was absorbed in the intricacies of folk and alternative music. She would spend hours reading CD jackets, deciphering the lyrics, and developing her own voice as a songwriter. Inspired by the raw emotion of the music she grew up with, Frankie began to pen her own songs, using the four guitar chords her mother had taught her.
Frankie found her first performance opportunities in coffee shops and open mic nights around Tampa, eager to share her songs with the world. Unable to enter bars due to her age, she would perform outside these venues, serenading passersby with her soulful melodies and poignant lyrics. It was clear that music was more than just a hobby for Frankie—it was her way of processing the world around her. One of her most personal songs, Song for Dad, came about when she was just 16 years old, after learning that her estranged father had passed away. The song is a heart-wrenching reflection on loss and longing, often leaving listeners moved to tears. To this day, it remains a fan favorite during her performances.
Frankie’s commitment to her craft grew stronger as she entered her college years. She took advantage of emerging social media platforms like MySpace and YouTube to share her music, developing a following of listeners who resonated with her unique blend of folk, pop, and candid storytelling. Realizing that she could make a living through music, she began performing at local restaurants and bars, often securing residencies as the house musician. Her six-nights-a-week performance schedule became the norm, and over time, she built a reputation as one of Tampa Bay’s most beloved live performers.
In 2019, Frankie released her first independent album, Brave. The album, which featured her original music, garnered attention from both domestic and international college radio stations. Brave introduced listeners to Frankie’s signature style: a mix of witty, heartfelt, and often introspective lyrics, paired with catchy melodies and intricate guitar work. Her willingness to explore both the light and dark sides of the human experience gave her music a depth that stood out in a crowded industry.
While the world came to a standstill during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, Frankie continued to create. She recorded her single Theodora from the comfort of her bedroom, a song that would go on to reach the final rounds in several prestigious songwriting competitions, including those hosted by the Songwriters Guild of America and Indie International Songwriters Network. Theodora also received praise from European independent music journals, further expanding Frankie’s international reach. Despite mixed reviews—some critics deemed her lyrics “too wordy” or “self-indulgent”—Frankie remained unapologetically herself. She has always written music from a place of honesty, unconcerned with fitting into the confines of traditional pop or folk genres.
Frankie’s hard work and dedication have led to performances at some of the most iconic music venues and festivals across the United States. She has graced the stage at the legendary Bitter End in New York City multiple times, performed at the Frank Brown International Songwriters Festival, and captivated audiences at the Flora-Bama during the Pensacola Beach Songwriters Festival. Frankie’s ability to connect with her listeners through her performances, whether in an intimate lounge or at a larger sporting event, sets her apart as an artist who values storytelling as much as the music itself.
Her performances have also taken her to the Winter NAMM Show in Anaheim, California, where she has headlined showcases at the House of Blues in Disneyland. Her growing reputation in the industry has led to partnerships with respected brands like G7th Capos and Mogami Cables, as well as features in advertisements for Harbinger Speakers and Teton Guitars.
Looking ahead, Frankie Raye shows no signs of slowing down. With a new EP slated for release in late 2024, she continues to explore new musical territory while staying true to her roots. Her music, often described as a thoughtful blend of pop and folk, defies easy categorization. Frankie writes from the heart, and in a world increasingly divided by polarized opinions and social media spats, her music offers a much-needed dose of sincerity and reflection.
Frankie Raye’s journey from a small town in Ohio to the stages of iconic venues across the country is a reminder that perseverance, passion, and authenticity can lead to incredible success. Her music speaks to the universal human experience, and with every song she writes and every show she performs, she invites her audience to share in that experience with her. As she continues to evolve as an artist, Frankie remains committed to her craft, proving that music is not just her career—it’s her life’s work.
To stay up to date with Frankie Raye’s latest performances, new music, and personal updates, you can follow her on these platforms:
- Explore Frankie Raye’s website for all the latest news, event dates, and music releases.
- Stream her music on Spotify and stay updated with her newest releases.
- Follow her on Instagram to see behind-the-scenes content, live show clips, and personal updates.
Published by: Khy Talara
