Getting To Know Ruti

Emerging artist Ruti talks Fender Next 2023, forthcoming mixtape and more

After watching Ruti send shivers down our spines with her breathtaking acoustic performance at the Fender Next 2023 showcase back in March, we were given an opportunity to get to know her a bit better.

The 23 year-old singer-songwriter is blessed with a voice and poise that’s put her between Arlo Parks and Sade within the continuum of soulful UK black music. Her songwriting draws inspiration from multiple genres like R&B, Pop, Folk, Jazz and Soul.

On her latest single “Luh Luh Love” released via PMR Records, she delivers a brilliant track with a samba groove that instantly connects with listeners— effortlessly cementing her status as one of the best emerging artists on the planet.

How are you doing?

I’m doing pretty well thank you!

Nice! How’s your week going?

Been good so far, enjoyed being in the studio!!

Love that. Let’s start from the beginning – which artist inspired you to pursue a career in music?

If we start right, right in the beginning, I would have to say Adele. I bought 21 on my first iPod back in 2010 and just wanted to sing every song. The first song I sang properly on my own in front of people was “Rolling in the Deep” – a capella as well!!

Amazing! 21 is one of the best albums ever. Out of all your favourite artists, which one would you collaborate with?

I would love to collaborate with Stevie Wonder. Hopefully one day, even if it’s to just sing together! I would also love to collaborate with Tyler the Creator. I think we could work well together to be honest!

Fingers crossed it happens one day! And the music you’re creating now, how would you describe it to a stranger?

Pop inspired by Jazz, Soul and Folk. It’s pretty dreamy.

Being an artist can be challenging, especially as a woman of colour. How do you keep yourself motivated during times of challenge?

I get quite bad imposter syndrome and anxiety about deserving to be where I am sometimes. But I do have to remind myself that surely I wouldn’t be in the position I’m in right now if it wasn’t for my talent. Also, I don’t think I have any other skill set so I have to keep going to make a living ha! But also I love it so much, I’m so privileged to be able to create music as a job.

I love that. You’ve just released your new single “Luh Luh Love”, can you talk us through the creative process?

It was my first session with Guilty Beatz and we just kinda hit it off. He started playing some chords and I joined in on guitar. I started singing the luh luh luh part and it went from there.

What’s the song about? 

It’s a romantic song about being very much in love with someone. There’s that warmth and safeness you get from being around them and I think the song gives a very warm vibe. It’s very joyful in general and I also wanted the music video to convey that joy!

Ah, that’s beautiful. When can we expect the mixtape?

I’m dropping the mixtape on the 9th of June!! I can’t wait!

Let’s go! Super excited for you! How does it feel being inducted into the Fender Next 2023 class?

It’s definitely something I didn’t expect at all! But when have I ever expected anything that’s happened to me so far?! I’m very honoured to be part of the roster. I’m a fan of some of the artists on the program, but everyone is incredibly talented so I’m thrilled!

The live performance of it at the Fender Next 2023 showcase was amazing by the way, do you have any more shows lined up?

I’m playing At The Great Escape. I have several festivals lined up this summer and hope to play a headline show after the summer. I love playing live so it’s gonna be a lot of fun!

Connect with Ruti

Photo Credit: Rebecca

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