Raye’s Zurich Concert: A Tribute to Her Swiss Grandfather

by Daniel Lee - Entertainment Editor
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Raye delivered what’s already being called one of the year’s standout shows at Zurich’s Hallenstadion on Wednesday, February 12, 2026, marking her first performance at the venue as a headliner. The British singer first appeared at the Hallenstadion two and a half years ago as an opening act for SZA.

The performance began with a touch of classic elegance, as Raye took the stage in a white (possibly faux) fur coat for the opening numbers, “Intro: Girl Under the Gray Cloud” and “I Will Overcome.” She quickly shed the coat for her hit single, “Where Is My Husband!,” continuing the set in a sparkling red gown alongside her two backing vocalists. Her impressive 20-piece band provided a full, rich sound throughout the night.

The staging evoked the intimate atmosphere of a jazz club, and halfway through the show, the stage transformed into just that, complete with bouncers and freshly served drinks. Raye then seamlessly blended pop with a burst of techno, turning the concert into a full-fledged “Rayve” for a few electrifying minutes.

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Schimun Krausz writes texts and produces videos on music topics for SRF 3, including social media. The 1975 is the best band in the world and he doesn’t allow any other opinion (until frontman Matty Healy has finally talked himself into social isolation).

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A Setlist Full of Surprises

A Raye show in 2026 is anything but boring. It’s a blend of R&B-pop, jazz-infused relaxation, and club energy. The performance is diverse without feeling disjointed, and even as nearly two and a half hours long, it never drags. It’s remarkable that the 28-year-classic can deliver such a lavish show with only one album under her belt—and admirable.

A significant portion of the setlist featured tracks from her second album, “This Music May Contain Hope,” which was released on March 27. When asked why she was touring before the album’s release, Raye simply responded, “Why not?” The audience’s enthusiasm for the new material wasn’t diminished, a testament to both the compelling music and Raye’s undeniably charming stage presence and genuine connection with the crowd.

Authentically Rehearsed

Rachel Keen, as she is formally known, immediately radiates energy, shining brighter than the stage lights. She exudes joy, delves into the drama of heartbreak, remains laser-focused with her band, and consistently shares lighthearted banter with the audience. While much of it is rehearsed—as expected for a show of this scale—it feels remarkably authentic.

There were moments when Raye briefly deviated from the setlist. Like when she admitted her voice wasn’t quite at its best (which was never noticeable), prompting the audience to break into a “Raye! Raye! Raye!” chant and bringing tears to the singer’s eyes.

Swiss Family

Raye also proudly displayed a Swiss cross tattoo on her arm, explaining that part of her family lives in eastern Switzerland and that “an entire busload of Swiss cousins and relatives” were in the Hallenstadion. She shared, visibly moved, that her Appenzell grandfather had passed away just weeks ago. “It would be so wonderful if he could be here now,” she said, “I dedicate this show to him.”

Her family wasn’t just in the audience, but also on stage. During the closer, “Joy,” her sisters Abby-Lynn, also known as Absolutely, and Lauren, alias Amma, joined her. The two also served as the opening act for this tour, which is both grand and warmly familial.

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