Flames Collective’s blessings continue, this time joining RAYE for her 2024 MTV EMA performance at the Co-op Live, Manchester. Vocalist, Nayana.AB goes behind the scenes for this blog…
Back Again with Aunty RAYE: The Journey Continues
From the early morning meeting at Hammersmith Apollo, we knew this would be something special. The bus pulled out at 9am for a four-hour journey, and after some solid car-sleep, we woke up ready for what was going to be one of the biggest performances yet with RAYE.
Rehearsal Day 1: First Look at the Stage
The first rehearsal was surreal. Seeing the stage for the first time brought a rush of excitement— this was unlike anything we’d done before. We ran through the show’s camera sequences, giving us a glimpse behind the scenes, and realising just how meticulously every detail had been planned. Even the announcement timing for the winners was mapped out to perfection!
The artist dining experience was like nothing we’d seen before. It was crazy—the service, the setup, and the food hit differently! We even had drinks brought to our tables, and the hospitality extended with giveaways, too (big shoutout to Dan for sending me to grab a pair of Crocs)! There was a chill jamming spot courtesy of Gibson Guitar, so we ended the night with an impromptu sing-along.
Settling in for the Big Day
After a solid first rehearsal, we settled into our hotel for the night, gearing up for the day ahead. Our call time was at 11:45, and we headed back mostly ready for a full camera dress rehearsal.
Backstage: Moments With Legends
The backstage energy was pure madness. Camera crews darted around, capturing every angle of the artists prepping for their big moments. To one side, there was Busta Rhymes and LL Cool J, and on the other, Little Simz, Teddy Swims and Olly from Years & Year. It was surreal.
As we warmed up, our whole dressing room area joined in, clapping along and filling the space with this beautiful, supportive energy. RAYE then joined us, leading to an impromptu group sing, a moment that ended up captured on her TikTok (subsequently going viral)! Being able to share that with her and with everyone watching was honestly something I’ll never forget.
@raye mama a choir behind you ????????????♀️➡️#raye #oscarwinningtears #emas @FLAMES ♬ original sound – Raye
The Performance: Raye’s Unmatched Presence
When the curtains lifted, the audience ran to the stage, fully captivated by RAYE‘s presence. Watching the crowd’s reaction to her always brings chills. We all know she’s incredible, but seeing her light up a room that way is something you have to experience to understand.
Reflections and Gratitude
Afterwards, we couldn’t stop talking about how much of a legend RAYE is becoming. It feels like a gift to be a part of her journey, witnessing her star rise and being there for these once-in-a-lifetime moments. I’ll say it over and over—thank you, RAYE, for your belief in us, your love, and your patience. You are a beautiful soul who deserves every success. And a huge shoutout to her incredible team, who showed us nothing but love and support. Working alongside such talented people is truly an honor, and it’s a journey I’m grateful to be part of.
@flamescollective Come with us (Flames Collective) to perform with @Raye AT the @MTV EMA✨❤️. A very blissful performance that we are very grateful to have gotten. Thank you @MTV @mtvuk #mtvema #raye #rayeema @Co-op Live ♬ original sound – MTV
Here’s to more unforgettable moments with Aunty RAYE – and a big congratulations on winning the Best UK & Ireland Act Award.
