Arin Ray Returns with Soulful Single 'Both Of Us'

The R&B artist reflects on creative reinvention after a three-year hiatus.

Apr. 17, 2026 at 9:25pm

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An extreme close-up of shimmering, glittering sequins captured in dramatic, high-contrast studio lighting, conveying the luxurious, high-fashion aesthetic of Arin Ray's musical comeback.Arin Ray's soulful new single 'Both Of Us' marks a refined, intentional return to the music scene, showcasing the artist's commitment to authenticity and personal growth.Cincinnati Today

Arin Ray, the Cincinnati-born R&B artist, has returned to the music scene with a renewed sense of purpose after a three-year hiatus. His new single 'Both Of Us' serves as both a musical and emotional reintroduction, as Ray candidly addresses a prospective partner and explains that he is not yet ready for a relationship due to his ongoing journey of self-work. The soulful ballad, produced by Paperboy Fabe, signals the beginning of what Ray describes as his most refined and intentional body of work to date.

Why it matters

Arin Ray's return to music marks a pivotal moment in his career, as he has embraced artistic independence and a deliberate pace to allow his music to reflect his evolving identity without compromise. This shift in approach has been instrumental in shaping the sincerity heard in 'Both Of Us,' as Ray positions this chapter not as a comeback, but as a continuation grounded in maturity, self-reflection, and a commitment to authenticity.

The details

After a three-year hiatus, during which he focused on personal growth and self-awareness, Arin Ray has returned to the music scene with the release of his new single 'Both Of Us.' The soulful ballad, produced by Paperboy Fabe, finds Ray candidly addressing a prospective partner, explaining that he is not yet ready for a relationship as he continues his journey of self-work. The single follows his EP installment 'Phases III,' released in October 2023, and signals the beginning of what Ray describes as his most refined and intentional body of work to date.

  • Arin Ray's new single 'Both Of Us' was released on April 17, 2026.
  • Ray's EP 'Phases III' was released in October 2023.
  • Ray returned to the stage with two back-to-back live performances at Blue Note LA on April 7, 2026.

The players

Arin Ray

A Cincinnati-born R&B artist who has returned to the music scene with a renewed sense of purpose after a three-year hiatus.

Paperboy Fabe

The producer of Arin Ray's new single 'Both Of Us.'

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What they’re saying

“Both Of Us' serves as both a musical and emotional reintroduction. The soulful ballad finds Ray candidly addressing a prospective partner, explaining that he is not yet ready for a relationship due to his ongoing journey of self-work.”

— Arin Ray, R&B Artist

What’s next

Arin Ray plans to continue rolling out new music as part of his most refined and intentional body of work to date, positioning this chapter as a continuation of his artistic journey grounded in maturity, self-reflection, and authenticity.

The takeaway

Arin Ray's return to music after a three-year hiatus represents a pivotal moment in his career, as he has embraced artistic independence and a deliberate pace to allow his music to reflect his evolving identity without compromise. The sincerity and maturity heard in his new single 'Both Of Us' suggest that Ray is committed to a thoughtful, authentic approach to his craft, prioritizing substance over speed and truth over trend.