This Sunday, Rachel Chinouriri made her second stop on the What A Devastating Turn of Events tour in Manchester, following the release of her debut in May. The album is a journey through the complex emotions of love, loss, grief, loneliness, and belonging and while no one wants to relive growing pains, Rachel’s performance is a beacon of hope, showing that there’s a light at the end of the tunnel. She’s creating a much-needed safe space for Black girls in the alternative music scene—whether it’s collaborating with fellow artists like Cat Burns on “Even” or by spotlighting emerging talents like Leonie Biney as her opener. Rachel Chinouriri’s music is more than just sound—it feels alive. Through her artistry, she invites us not only to listen but to feel and connect, making her music an experience in vulnerability and resilience.
I first heard Rachel Chinouriri’s viral hit “So My Darling” during lockdown, a song she says she now looks back on as a reminder to express love openly. It’s become a fan favourite, and during Sunday’s performance, fans held up handmade paper hearts, a gesture that moved Rachel to tears. Four years after its fame, the song’s impact has only grown—her fans, now affectionately called “Darlings,” embody its message of love and connection. Yet, Rachel’s music goes well beyond a one-hit wonder or TikTok fame; it speaks deeply to shared experiences and emotions that resonate beyond the for you page.
In 2022, Rachel released “All I Ever Asked,” a track from her Better Off Without EP following 2021’s Four° in Winter. It’s a song that balances heartbreak with an uplifting, bright indie-pop sound. I remember listening to it while studying for my A Levels—the lyrics felt relatable, mirroring the struggles I was going through, but the song’s brightness kept me going. It’s this unique mix of honesty and optimism that makes Rachel’s music special.
What A Devastating Turn of Events
What A Devastating Turn of Events, her debut album released in May earlier this year has a raw, authentic feel— a standout in a year packed with releases. Opening with “Garden of Eden” which sets the tone for the exploration of growing pains. Rachel weaves in voice notes and conversations amongst reflections which feel they were ripped straight out of a journal. This added layer of reality, creates a warmth.
What A Devastating Turn of Events not only feels deeply personal but also showcases Rachel Chinouriri’s versatility in the alternative soundscape. She experiments across indie, pop, and rock, from the punchy intensity of “The Hills” to the bright, buoyant “Never Need Me,” and the gentle, reflective tones of “Pocket.” Each track brings a unique texture to the album, creating a sound that defies categorisation and pulls listeners through a full spectrum of emotions.
Beyond the Album…
From the start, it’s been clear that Rachel’s music belongs in the alternative realm, but she’s often been mislabeled under R&B—a categorisation she has pushed back against. As a creative with Zimbabwean heritage, I find myself deeply appreciating Rachel Chinouriri’s work. Her British-Zimbabwean heritage enriches her perspective, and she’s using her platform to redefine what it means to be a Black artist in alternative music. Collaborating with fellow Black British creative Cat Burns on the song “Even” and co-hosting a podcast by the same name, Rachel reflects on the unique experiences of Black British artists. Her choice to spotlight Leonie Biney as an opener further reinforces this mission, fostering an inclusive space for Black voices within alternative music. Through her music, her collaborations, and platform Rachel is carving out space for a new narrative in the indie and alternative scenes.
The What A Devastating Turn of Events tour is an experience that blends vulnerability and resilience. Rachel Chinouriri’s presence on stage, alongside a band that exudes camaraderie and warmth, brings a real sense of hope to her music. The addition of Leonie Biney as an opener underscores Rachel’s dedication to fostering a new era in indie music, one where diverse voices have space to thrive and shine. Through her music, Rachel Chinouriri reminds us that no matter the hardships we face, there is always a light at the end of the tunnel.
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