Jordan Rakei is feeling more free than ever before. A decade on from the release of his debut album Cloak, the New Zealand-born, Britain based singer-songwriter is entering a new chapter of unfettered creativity.
With the announcement of his new album, A Safe Place To Be Wild, Rakei also announces his return to Australia and New Zealand this December.
Over the past 10 years, the multi-instrumentalist and producer has built a loyal global fanbase thanks to his distinctively searching musical voice. Across six albums, Rakei has explored everything from the warmth of neo-soul and jazz-influenced improvisation to earworm pop melodies, sweeping orchestral arrangements and deeply personal songwriting. Collaborating with the likes of Loyle Carner, Tom Misch and Bonobo, Rakei received a nomination for Best Album at the 2025 Ivor Novello Awards following the release of his acclaimed fifth record, The Loop. He has also received nominations for an AIR Award and the Australian Music Prize.
Born in New Zealand before moving to Australia at the age of three, Rakei grew up equally inspired by the soulful sounds of Stevie Wonder and the swung beat-making of J Dilla. A keen rugby, chess and table tennis player, he spent his spare time after school and between shifts at the local supermarket uploading YouTube covers and crafting his own intricate productions. By 2014, he had begun defining his distinctive sound with the release of his self-produced debut EPs, Franklin's Room and Groove Curse. A devoted local following quickly emerged and, in 2015, he made the move halfway across the world to London.
On stage, his joyous and masterfully arranged live performances have captivated audiences everywhere from Glastonbury to two sold-out shows at the Royal Albert Hall. His most recent 2025 Australian tour was another career highlight, culminating in a sold-out performance at the Sydney Opera House Concert Hall.
A Safe Place To Be Wild Tour marks Jordan Rakei's biggest headline tour of Australia and New Zealand to date. In celebration of the new album, due for release on 30 October, the tour sees Rakei returning home at the peak of his creative powers. It seems this exciting new chapter for the visionary artist is only just beginning.
"I'm truly myself in this music," Rakei says. "It's all about creating that safe space to be wild and free."