Q: Can you tell us a bit about yourself and how your childhood impacted your musical direction?
A: I’m a singer, songwriter, and producer with a big love for musical theatre and jazz. I actually started out in ballet when I was just 3, then got into singing around age 5, and by 10, I was already doing theatre. I was definitely a dramatic kid, in the best way! Music was always this safe, expressive space for me.
That said, pursuing music wasn’t encouraged in my family, so for a while, I stepped away from it. But nothing else felt like home. Music always felt like a warm hug that I kept coming back to. Eventually, I found the courage to return to it, started writing and singing again, and slowly built what is now my artist project, Rue Rue.
Q: How are you planning on growing your fan base and sharing your music with the world? What message do you have for anyone who is about to discover “Rue Rue”?
A: Rue Rue is a cozy journey that explores the ups and downs of life with heart, honesty, and a blend of classical, musical theatre, and jazz influences. I want to connect with my audience in meaningful ways, whether it’s through live shows, storytelling on social media, or just sharing music that speaks to everyday emotions.
For anyone just discovering Rue Rue, my message is: welcome. I hope my songs feel like something comforting you can lean on when things get tough, and something joyful you can dance to when life feels light. Whether you’re celebrating or struggling, I want the music to feel like a little piece of encouragement to keep going.
Q: Who is the most inspiring artist for you right now? And where do you find inspiration for making music?
A: Inspiration comes from everywhere for me, including music, stories, and little everyday moments. I’m especially drawn to the drama and storytelling in musicals. Sondheim is a huge influence. The way his musicals capture both the joy and complexity of everyday life is just brilliant.
I also love the cozy, timeless feel of jazz; like how A-Tisket, A-Tasket and Put on a Happy Face never fail to make me smile. And then there’s the elegance of classical music. River Flows In You has been a favorite of mine for years. It’s calming, emotional, and beautifully simple. All of these sounds and feelings find their way into my own music in some way.
Q: Can you tell us about the story or message behind the song, “Little Adventures.”?
A: Little Adventures is a nostalgic look back at childhood. Those days when climbing a small mound felt like conquering a mountain, or when my bunk bed became a ship sailing across imaginary oceans. I remember racing bikes with the neighborhood kids, turning every afternoon into something magical.
As we grow up, life starts to feel heavier and more complicated. But I think there’s always a choice: to see the world through tired adult eyes, or to hold onto that childlike sense of wonder. This song is about that choice. It’s about revisiting the joy, curiosity, and simplicity we often lose along the way. It’s a reminder to keep chasing those little adventures, even as we get older.
Q: How would you describe your sound in one word for potential listeners?
A: I’d say whimsical. My music feels like a warm hug that is rooted in real emotions, but always reaching for that spark of childhood magic and wonder.
Q: Did you face any challenges while writing or recording “Little Adventures”?
A: Definitely. The song sits in this delicate space between the sorrow of looking back and the hope of rediscovering childhood wonder. Finding that emotional balance in the lyrics and the melody was a real challenge. I also had to shift how I sang, aiming for a more youthful tone than I usually use, which took some experimenting. Another big decision was whether to keep the song short and simple or build it out more. In the end, I went with the simpler structure and added an “aaa” bridge to tie it all together. It was a challenge doing everything myself, but it was such a fun and rewarding process from start to finish.
Q: What is the message of your music? And what are your goals as an artist?
A: My music invites people to embrace both the beauty and the sadness in life. To celebrate the journey, not just the destination. Through my songs, I hope to be a little light in someone’s dark moment, and to create honest connections through words and melody. At the heart of it, my goal as an artist is to make people feel seen, comforted, and a little more hopeful.
Q: Who is your dream artist to collaborate with? (dead or alive)
A: Frank Sinatra! He moved so effortlessly between jazz and musical theatre, and he was such a true triple threat. Everything he did felt polished yet natural. I’d love to learn from him: what inspired him, how he approached his craft, and just soak up his process. Collaborating with someone like that would be a dream.
Q: What is your advice for people interested in pursuing music as a career or for those trying to enter the industry?
A: My biggest advice is to start as soon as you can and always hold on to the reason why you began in the first place. That’ll help keep you grounded when things like fame or fortune come your way. There will always be negative comments, and not all of them are helpful. Try not to get caught up in the negativity or hate. Remember, you’re your own biggest supporter, and there are people out there who truly want to hear your music and connect with the message you’re sharing.
Q: If you could go back in time and give a younger you some words of wisdom, what would they be?
A: I’d tell my younger self that all feelings are valid, and music can take so many different shapes. Instead of chasing perfection, focus on expression. Music is about freedom of expressing yourself and connecting with others. It’s never just about success or gains.
