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2025 |
Fran Raya's artistic career spans more than five decades, carving a path through the vibrant world of music and literature. From performing her heartfelt songs across Europe to penning gripping novels, Fran has built a legacy fuelled by creativity, resilience, and passion. Her journey began in the 1970's, where she first made her mark as "Frankie." Signed to the Domino label, she recorded her early works at the legendary Strawberry Studios in Stockport, a space that echoed with the sounds of musical greats. Fran's single, Road of Destiny, found success in Spain and Italy, while her piece Sign of Love was recorded by Frank Chacksfield and his orchestra. Unplugged performances at university circuits in London and Manchester, alongside concerts at the iconic Free Trade Hall, cemented her reputation as an artist deeply connected to her craft. As her career evolved, so did her name. Re branding as "Fran Barrie," she collaborated with industry heavyweights like Bob Auger at Indigo Studios and Brian Fitzgerald of The Northern Dance Orchestra. Her single Where Is The Feeling came tantalizingly close to securing a recording contract with Page One Records. Despite this setback, Fran's unyielding dedication kept her composing prolifically, guided by her husband and manager, Robert. Fran's songwriting is defined by its lyrical richness. Her catalogue spans countless styles, a testament to her adaptability and creativity. But perhaps her most significant milestone came in the 1980's when she supported the legendary Eric Clapton during his Scandinavian tours. Based in Denmark at the time, Fran captivated audiences with her emotive performances, an achievement she still cherishes as the highlight of her musical career. While music has been a constant, Fran's love for writing has been equally enduring. As a child, she discovered the magic of words, crafting poems and stories that transported her to another world. Over the years, she expanded her repertoire to include comedy scripts, musicals, and even painting portraits. In 1996, Fran embarked on a literary journey that would redefine her career. What began as a short story about a boy with telepathic powers blossomed into a sprawling manuscript. The protagonist, Randal Forbes, is an anti-hero with a dark edge, a creation so vivid that Fran herself marvels at its origins. Though initial attempts to publish the story faced challenges, destiny intervened years later. In 2018, Fran revisited the forgotten manuscript. With the support of The Book Guild, Poetic Justice: The Dawning was published, marking the start of a thrilling series that follows Randal's life from infancy to adulthood. Dynamic, demonic, and decadent, Randal has captivated readers with his complexity. The series has since expanded, solidifying Fran's reputation as a compelling storyteller. In
addition to her novels, Fran's poetry has graced 15 anthologies
published by United Press, further showcasing her versatility as
a writer. Now based in Manchester, Fran focuses on songwriting and
collaborating with other artists. Though the days of live performances
are behind her, the passion that once took her across Europe continues
to drive her creative endeavours. Whether through a haunting melody
or a gripping novel, Fran Raya remains a force of artistic expression,
proving that the pursuit of creativity knows no bounds. |
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2024 |
Fran’s
book Beatles and Beacons was published January 2024, a subject
very close to her heart. It’s a semi-autobiographical, coming-of-age
story, featuring the rebellious Becca Beacon and the effect that
The Beatles had on her life. It begins in 1962 and ends with
the Epilogue in 1970. Becca finds her own musical identity
as a result. It’s based on Fran’s teenage years. Names
have been changed but the stories are true. She has had several
radio interviews. Also, the reviews are good. Click
on the links to see examples. Fran has subscribed again to SongLink International and is now receiving industry-based leads from artists looking for songs. The
Guild of International Songwriters and Composers have informed her
that they will publish another article about her in their next quarterly
magazine. |
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2018 |
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2017 |
On
the literary front she completed the first book of a planned series
and submitted it to multiple agents and publishers. The theme is
that of a thriller, with a paranormal edge. |
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2016 |
Musically there are several irons in the fire, including
an Italian cover of her John Lennon tribute song 'Hardest Part Of All'. The German rock band, Velvet Steel, have only just released
their 20th anniversary album in March 2016 as their lead singer,
Robert Steiner, worked on several solo albums in between. The Guild of International Songwriters and Composers have featured an image of the album 'Thunderous Rain' on the front cover of their latest quarterly magazine and Fran's profile is heavily publicised in the first four pages, followed by a run down of Velvet Steel's career. The magazine is issued to thousands of members world wide. Fran has been asked to submit more material into this
year's UK Songwriting Contest. She has
already sent two songs for consideration. |
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July |
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July 2010 |
Fran contacted by Bonnie Tyler to submit material for her new album which she will record in Nashville and is scheduled for release in January 2011.
Capitol Records, Nashville, request song submissions for new artists.
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June |
The results of the UK Songwriting Contest 2010.
There were 6000 entrants in 10 different categories of music. Fran had submitted 5 songs in the rock, pop and country categories.
All FIVE of Fran's songs were placed.
The UK Songwriting Contest was formed in association with the BRIT Trust and other major music industry organisations. It is held annually with support from some of the biggest names in the UK and international music communities.
This year the judges also included Simon Ellis who is one of the most successful songwriter/producers/musical directors in the UK and has worked with the likes of Britney Spears.
Another judge was Richard Niles, one of the most respected writers and producers in music. He has advised Paul McCartney, Ray Charles, Tina Turner, Cher, Mariah Carey, James Brown and many more.
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May |
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April |
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February 2010 |
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January 2010 |
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November 2009 |
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October |
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2009
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(They
didn't get the autographs, though!) |
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