Rag’n’Bone Man: A Reflection on His Musical Journey and New Beginnings
A New Era Begins
British singer-songwriter Rag’n’Bone Man, born Rory Charles Graham, is embarking on a new chapter in his music career. Recently, he completed a five-date tour in Australia, marking his first visit since the release of his groundbreaking hit “Human” nearly a decade ago. During these performances, fans were introduced to his upcoming track, “Time to Love,” which has been produced in collaboration with Danger Mouse.
Insights on “Time to Love”
In an interview with Rolling Stone AU/NZ, Rag’n’Bone Man described “Time to Love” as a “real banger,” noting its experimental sound that diverges from mainstream pop. “It’s slightly underground… it really has heads nodding in the audience,” he shared. Australia was the first venue where he showcased this track live, demonstrating his evolving artistry.
Recent Album Launch
“Time to Love” will feature on Rag’n’Bone Man’s third studio album, What Do You Believe In?, released in October 2024. The album debuted impressively, reaching No. 3 on the U.K. Albums Chart and No. 4 on the ARIA Albums Chart.
Personal Reflections
Discussing the emotional impact of his music, Rag’n’Bone Man stated, “It really helped me through trauma.” Reflecting on the challenges of loss and the vulnerability of performing, he admitted his initial apprehensions but found healing through sharing his experiences. “I’d just be a mess,” he recalled, referencing his struggles, but he eventually embraced the cathartic nature of performance.
The Breakthrough Hit “Human”
Rag’n’Bone Man rose to fame with his global hit “Human,” which dominated charts worldwide. Spending seven weeks on the Billboard Hot 100 and peaking at No. 74, the track’s music video has garnered over two billion views on YouTube, averaging 380,000 views daily. Furthermore, the song has been featured as a theme for prominent TV shows like Jack Ryan and God Friended Me, and even in the video game Mass Effect: Andromeda.
A Magical Journey
Reflecting on his rapid rise to fame, Rag’n’Bone Man stated, “That couple of years was f—ing wild.” He vividly remembers a friend from Melbourne informing him of his constant radio presence. “You’re on the f—ing radio every day over here, mate,” his friend told him, illustrating the immense success he achieved in Europe and the United States.
Contentment with His Path
Now at 40, Rag’n’Bone Man expresses satisfaction with his career trajectory. “No way. I think I did alright,” he stated, adding a hint of humor about the aging process, “Maybe drink a little less, but that’s about it. It hurts a little bit more when you’re 40.” His reflections showcase a blend of pride and wisdom gained through personal and professional experiences.