From the pretty streets of Melbourne, Australia, Hazel Ray emerges as a pop-soul sensation whose music defies boundaries and vibrates deep inside the soul. Hazel Ray, as gifted as she is, graced the world in July 2023 with her latest hit, “My Demon,” a passionate ode to self-discovery, strength, and empowerment. Produced by the renowned Steve James who has worked with artists such as The Jam, Sex Pistols, and many more to name, “My Demon” is nothing short of a masterpiece. And with Steve James at the helm, you can expect nothing less than a legendary production, and “My Demon” lives up to that expectation. I had the privilege of connecting with Hazel Ray from the other side of the world about the inspiration for “My Demon,” which has already made an everlasting imprint on the music scenery. Take a look at our talk below.
SONGWEB: Can you tell us a little bit about the inspiration behind your latest project?
HAZEL RAY: ‘My Demon’ is just as much about a personal journey as it is about the journey of all. Everyone, at some point in their life, faces the little voice in their heads that tells them that they aren’t good enough or that they won’t amount to anything. For some people, these voices become so strong that they can lead them to paths in life that can be destructive to their health emotionally, physically, spiritually, and financially. This unfortunately/fortunately was also the case for myself. I say fortunately because it was through facing these inner Demons that I have been me to live a more fulfilled and inspired life, aligned with my Truth.
SONGWEB: How do you approach the creative process when creating new works of
art?
HAZEL RAY: In many many many different ways. This song was written while driving for 3 hours. The melody and all the lyrics came to me in one sitting. I find that if a verse and a chorus can come out, I have a song.
I truly believe being in the flow state is the best state to be in for creativity. To get there we must get out of the driver’s seat (pardon the pun) of the mind and allow collective consciousness to take the lead. Surfing and meditating are other ways I used to get into this state.
SONGWEB: Can you share with us a particularly memorable moment during the making
of this project?
HAZEL RAY: The first time that I heard the complete master of this song it brought me to tears. So much, so that I felt that the healing of ‘My Demon’ could come full circle and I could finally let go. I remember feeling tingles and a massive internal release. That’s when I knew that for the right people it could offer a place of healing and understanding.
SONGWEB: What message or emotion do you hope to convey through your art?
HAZEL RAY: Hope and strength that no matter how dark things become, the light will always prevail. Fear is what cages souls from living their dreams. Fear is what caged me from living mine. Some people will live their whole lives in a fearful state of mind. Fearing death, fearing sickness, fearing success, but also fearing failure, so much so that people are paralyzed doing the same ‘safe’ routines in their lives but living a miserable existence in the process. Face the fears, face the Demon, live your Dreams.
SONGWEB: Can you describe how you incorporate your personal experiences into your
work?
HAZEL RAY: All of my songs signify something to do with my journey that I know is reflective of many others in the world. I show much vulnerability in my music to also allow others to become vulnerable.
SONGWEB: How does your latest project differ from previous works you’ve created?
ANGEL RAY: The messages, depth, and vulnerability are the same; however, the production on this track is the biggest and best I have ever created. Steve James (my producer) is phenomenal at pulling out larger-than-life atmospheric sounds on my tracks and he went above and beyond for ‘My Demon’.
SONGWEB: Lastly, what are your plans for your artistic journey and where do you hope
to take your work in the future?
HAZEL RAY: I am a firm believer that everything happens for a reason and you are always where you need to be. I will continue to produce music that aligns with my soul’s purpose and mission. Some of the music coming is more uplifting, which I am excited to share. From here, I will continue service and push my music as far and wide as I can. It will reach the souls that need to hear it, and opportunities will come my way that I am destined for; however great or small.
In light of Hazel Ray’s explanation of the song’s inspiration, “My Demon” is a personal journey of self-discovery and resilience. The lyrics depict the universal battle that many people experience in overcoming inner doubts and self-criticism and Hazel’s tenacity to confront and recover from these inner demons sends a strong message of hope and personal growth to a large audience. The emotional depth of the song and its relatable premise make it an effective and impactful musical piece. The imagery of “yellow eyes,” a “real dark face,” and “horns that point deep within my soul” give a stark picture of her internal struggles Overall, “My Demon” is an engrossing and insightful piece that deals with universal themes of human strife and triumph. It’s a powerful piece of music that drives us to face our anxieties and work toward restoration and growth.
Listen to “My Demon” by Hazel Ray on Spotify and let us know your thoughts.
You can follow Hazel Ray here for more information.
