gal-dem loves: Ruby Francis

Ruby Francis, singer

Ruby Francis is a 21-year-old singer from London, who has just released her first single called ‘On My Knees’. Ruby is definitely one to watch; her soulful, sensual voice floating over C Beats’ cool, funky track reminds me of a cross between The Internet and SZA. I caught up with Ruby to talk about her journey so far.

gal-dem: Tell us about your background and how you got into music.
Ruby Francis: I’ve always been into music ever since I can remember. Both my parents have always had a passion for music (their vinyl collection is nuts!). Also, dad is a musician: he played bass in various bands back in the day and always had equipment set up. There was always a wide variety of music playing through out the house pretty much every day. I grew up listening to lots of Chaka Khan, Level 42, Stevie Wonder (the list is never ending).

Once dad realised that I had a talent in picking up melodies and chords by ear, he bought me my first proper keyboard when I was 10. This is when I started writing. I later got into singing once I’d started secondary school.

About 2 years ago I got really into production too, so now I write songs using Logic X. It’s wicked because, although I’m still learning, I get to create my whole vision. From baselines, to chords to beats to top lines.

About 5 years ago, I met Lewis Jankel, better known as Shift K3y, who was actively pursuing a career in music and taught me that it was actually possible for me to do it too. He really believed in me and my songs and introduced me to a bunch of super helpful people.

 

 

Any major challenges or opportunities you’ve come across as an upcoming artist?
I think the biggest challenge has been having to balance my retail job which I’ve been in for 4 years part time, and pursuing my career in music. One day I have to be in selling world, then the next in finishing/writing song world. For such a long time, I’ve just wanted things to get moving! I’m currently working with a few really amazing, talented artists who I really respect musically. It’s made me super optimistic for the future.

How would you describe the music you make? What do you want to achieve through your music?
I would best describe the genre of my music as futuristic R&B, a little bit 80s, a little jazzy but still catchy. Through my music, I want to bring something a little bit different to those who want to listen and, through that, become a professional artist.

Is there a story behind ‘On My Knees’?
C Beats and I started out with making the instrumental. Once we had it grooving, he asked me what I think it should be about. We both agreed the vibe was very intimate and sexy. So, I thought it would be cool to make that the running theme. It was only after writing the line ‘I’ll be on my knees for you’ did I realise it had a sexual double meaning! But I think that’s what makes it cool, right?

What are the next steps for you/your future plans?
My next steps are to knuckle down on finishing and uploading new tracks every few weeks on SoundCloud. I’m so excited for people to hear what I’ve been working on. I’ve had a few opportunities from even putting just this one track up, so we’ll see where that takes me!

Any interests/hobbies?
Besides music related stuff, I love food, if you can call that a hobby? I love a good debate, and I have a huge interest in psychology, sociology and differences between people. I find that fascinating.