Emerging pop sensation Julia Raye unveils her latest single, “Wish You Stayed,” arriving November 1st. Produced by Bret “Epic” Mazur—known for his work with Crazy Town, Prince, and the Black Eyed Peas—the track follows in the footsteps of her recent hits, “Expectations” and “Give You Up.”
With its tender guitar melody and Julia’s signature soul-stirring vocals, “Wish You Stayed” captures the quiet ache of losing a relationship that once felt perfect. Overflowing with emotional depth, the lyrics tap into those raw moments of reflection when you’re left questioning how everything unraveled.
“I wrote this song in the midst of mourning a relationship, so I took inspiration from all of the texts I sent to friends and the little notes I’d written down on my phone,” Julia says. “Ultimately, it’s about cherishing and reflecting on the good moments, even when you know it’s time to let go.”
Born and raised in Long Island, New York, 23-year-old Julia Raye has been performing for as long as she can remember. She grew up taking dance classes, singing, and performing in local musical theater productions. By age 17, she had performed in over twenty musical theatre shows along with performances with the New York All State Choir and ACDA All National Choir.
Julia went on to study vocal performance at the University of Michigan under the tutelage of George Shirley, the first African-American to perform at the Metropolitan Opera. This classical foundation added a rich depth to her voice, but Julia’s heart has always beat to the rhythm of pop and R&B. Drawing inspiration from icons like Beyoncé and Ariana Grande, Julia blends her operatic training with raw, introspective storytelling and irresistible pop hooks, creating a sound that’s as unique as it is powerful.
“Wish You Stayed” will be out on streaming platforms on November 1st.
GGM Staff
The writers at Guitar Girl Magazine bring a wealth of experience from all corners of the music industry. Our writers are musicians, songwriters, producers, and passionate advocates for women in music, with years of hands-on expertise both on stage and behind the scenes. They are dedicated to amplifying the voices of female guitarists and offering insightful perspectives on gear, technique, and the latest trends in the industry. With a deep love for music and a commitment to empowering the next generation of female artists, the Guitar Girl team is at the forefront of celebrating and inspiring women in music.
