Ruby Francis
Photo Credit: Nathan Wolf Grace
Ruby Francis has music embedded in every stage of her life. Her parents’ vast familiarity with music, especially the soul and funk of the 60s-80s, thrust her into the world of music. Growing up, neo-soul and R&B filled her music library, where Jill Scott, The Neptunes, and Erykah Badu’s groovy pianos and classic hip-hop drums were apparent influences to Francis’ creative process. In Francis’ most recent single, “What’s the Problem?” featuring soul singer Kadeem Tyrell, her appreciation of R&B and soul music and culture revitalizes those sounds of the past and mixes them with those of the present, creating electro-R&B. The glitz and glamour reverberating in tracks like “Rush” and “All of the Time” make her music a great example of the artistic direction of our generation’s alternative R&B, and she is a name we’ll be seeing much more of. Francis’ newest LP is to be released in 2021, so be sure to check out her growing discography. We recently spoke with Ruby Francis about her early start producing, her cure to writer’s block, and more!
How did you get started making music?
I come from a musical family. Dad’s an amazing bass player and mum is a huge music lover. I grew up listening to so much music in the house. Lot's of music from the 70's -90’s; Chaka Khan, Stevie Wonder, Earth Wind & Fire to name a few. I guess being musical is in my genes and has always been in my environment from the beginning until now. Dad was a huge influence and always supported and pushed me to pursue a career in music. After playing on kid sized keyboards, my family all chipped in when I was about 11 to get me a “proper adult” sized E.piano. I then started singing and writing songs on keys then in my teens got into the world of production.
What makes a Ruby Francis track different from any other artist?
I take inspiration from a wide range of music. From Bjork to the Neptunes, Joni Mitchel to D’angelo. I’d say the music I have out now is really different to what I’ve currently been working on. I also produce most of my own work so I guess you can hear those influences in the production side of things.
Share one real-life experience that inspired a song.
There’s a few! But “All of the Time” even though it’s a super up beat dance track, was actually written when I was super heartbroken and trying to cheer myself up. I was so attached to this ex that I kept imagining him surprising me at my door like “only kidding! I DO love you!”. Haha sad but true.
You recently did a collab with fellow R&B/Soul-creative Kadeem Tyrell. What was it like working with the artist?
Kadeem Tyrell, he’s wonderful! He really inspires me because he works so hard as an independent artist, and always shares great advice. He’s been an absolute pleasure to work with, it was so easy. “What’s the Problem” practically wrote itself and we had a great time making it. Make sure you check out his music!
You did a fantastic rendition of Shanice's "I Love Your Smile". Who are some other artists that have shaped your sound?
I’m glad you like it!! I have already mentioned a few but Pharrell and Stevie Wonder are big ones. I also listened to a lot of Neo Soul growing up; Erykah Badu, Jill Scott, India Arie. I actually went through a rock/ metal phase as well and loved Muse, Marilyn Manson, System of a down! I’m also in love with Brazilian/ Bossa Nova music like Sergio Mendes, Joao Gilberto. There’s too many to mention.
Do you ever encounter writer's block? If so, how do you overcome that?
I used to, but now I don’t see it as a ‘block” I see it as Erykah Badu once said “a time to download”. Meaning, go and experience life. Live it, breath it, feel it and when the time is right come back and write about those experiences. Sometimes it’s as simple as going for a walk, calling your grandma, listening to new or old music, and experiencing other forms of art. That’s one method. The other is to just power through it and keep pushing even if it’s hard. Sometimes interesting things can come of that.
What inspires you to keep on creating music?
My musical tribe. I am so privileged and lucky to have such a beautiful group of friends, some of the most talented artists in the UK. When I’m feeling unmotivated they always know how to pick me back up on track. Hanging with them, listening to their music and discovering new music helps too. Also interacting with fans on instagram. Some of the messages I get are so beautiful!
How much do you value evolving your sound as an artist? How has your music changed over the years?
Evolving in any art form is not only necessary but it’s nature's way. As I’ve grown and experienced life, my views on things have changed, I’ve encountered new experiences and have become even closer to discovering my true self. My unreleased music is definitely more reflective of that now. I think more carefully about my lyrics and intention behind a song now rather than just what feels good. The music that is released feels like the stage before the one I’m at now.
What can we catch you doing on your day off?
Laying in, cooking, eating… I’m lucky enough to live near beautiful woods, so sometimes I walk there, dancing round my room (try to do on work days too).
What's next for Ruby Francis?
Album! I’m just finishing up mixing/ mastering my debut album, can’t say a release date just yet, but looking towards really next year :)
