Elliot James Reay Releases New Track "Boy In Love"

By Sean Alexander

Photo by Em Cole

This past Friday, November 22nd, Elliot James Reay released his second track, Boy In Love. Boy in Love is one of those rare songs that functions rather like a time machine. If someone had told me it was from the 60s, I would have believed them. It carries heavy influence from early rock-n-roll but does so in a way that holds a current energy. The 22-year-old singer found a space for himself and is using it to its fullest. His songs carry a style that is uniquely his but maintains a relatability to listeners.

After his first song, I Think They Call This Love, was released and caught global attention, the music video amassed over 10 million views before the song was released. Within its first month on streaming platforms, the song garnered over 10 million plays and reached Spotify’s Viral charts in 27 countries, peaking at No. 14 on the Global Viral 50. After that success, Reay signed with Interscope to release this second track. Both songs carry the same strength and influence of the 60s rock-n-roll sounds.

His passion for the 1950s extends beyond the music to the era itself. With a voice, look, and charisma that seem to transport fans back in time, Reay blends the nostalgic charm of doo-wop and rockabilly with modern touches. A closer listen to his music reveals playful nods to different decades and unconventional elements — from bent melodies to distorted guitar riffs — that would have been considered groundbreaking in Billy Fury’s time. Despite industry skeptics suggesting he change his sound, Reay has built a massive following, organically attracting more than 4.7 million social media followers and generating hundreds of millions of views.

Reay grew up in Bury, a town outside Manchester, England, where he developed a love for vintage music and fashion at a young age. As a teenager, he thrifted for retro clothing and began busking in the town center, drawing growing crowds. After raising more than £2,000 in a single day busking to support those affected by the 2017 Manchester tragedy, Reay realized the impact his music could have. He was just 15 years old at the time.

Since then, Reay has worked to share his velvet-smooth voice with a growing, multigenerational audience. If you are ever in a conversation with someone who says, “They just don't make music like they used to.” Play them Boy in Love, and I’m sure it will help change their perspective about new music.

Watch the music video here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0SGtar62tB8