Songfacts®:

• Raye ponders the bittersweet joy of new love in "Worth It," the 13th track on her debut album, My 21st Century Blues. This soulful R&B and pop blend, described by Raye as the album's happiest track, explores the internal conflict between cautious hope for a blossoming romance and the potential sacrifice of personal time.
  
  "Recorded entirely with live instruments, strings and brass, this song is warm and hopeful," Raye told Spotify. "It makes me optimistic for brighter days and finding love that completes the picture."
• Worldwide Fresh helped Raye write the lyrics. New York singer-songwriter and producer Akil C. King, known as Worldwide Fresh, has also written for Beyoncé ("Bigger") and Coi Leray ("Players").
• Raye wrote the music with her My 21st Century Blues producer Mike Sabath and American songwriter/producer John Hill (Shakira's "She Wolf," Portugal. The Man's "Feel It Still").
• Raye's path to "Worth It" wasn't without hurdles. Despite showcasing her talent as a songwriter for such stars as Beyoncé, Little Mix and Ellie Goulding and lending her vocals to hit songs by the likes of Jax Jones, Jonas Blues and David Guetta, she remained under the radar during her time with Polydor Records. Signed as a teenager, a four-album deal in 2014 failed to fully launch her solo career.
  
  In 2021, Raye's frustration with the label became public. She expressed a desire to release her work, stating she had a wealth of material waiting. Following her pleas, Raye was released from her contract.
  
  Emerging as an independent artist, Raye formed her own label and seized creative control. My 21st Century Blues became a deeply personal exploration of her industry struggles and the yearning for genuine connection. "Worth It" reflects these experiences, adding a layer of personal significance for the artist.
• This independent venture proved successful. My 21st Century Blues garnered critical acclaim, winning British Album of the Year at the 2024 BRIT Awards alongside five other accolades for Raye. "Worth It" entered the UK Singles Chart the week after Raye's BRIT triumph at #38.