Southampton hailing multifaceted artist Reuben Aziz reveals his musical firsts, as he releases his tender new single, 'Running'.

Meet Reuben Aziz, a 20-year-old singer, songwriter, producer, and multi-instrumentalist hailing from Southampton. His latest single, ‘Running’,  is a mesmerising exploration of the complexities within past relationships, delivered with dreamy vocals crafted to tug at the heartstrings.


The now London-based artist’s musical journey is a testament to the profound impact of a diverse range of influences. Raised on the beats of Tupac, The Fugees, and DMX by his father, he later found inspiration in the likes of Frank Ocean and Daniel Caesar. A self-taught vocalist and guitar player, Reuben started crafting his musical identity at the age of 10, delving into production by 14. It’s evident that for him, music was not just a passion but a first love.


The artist’s path took an unexpected turn during lockdown, pivoting from dreams of a professional basketball career to the creative realm. His rap freestyles, which went viral, showcased a restless energy that would later define his evolving sound: a blend of modern soul, intoxicating lyricism, and sweet, falsetto vocals that captivate listeners.


Reuben’s viral hit, ‘find u’, catapulted him into the global spotlight, solidifying his presence in the UK music scene. As he continues to release new music, the artist remains on an unwavering trajectory toward longevity and legacy, positioning himself as a force to be reckoned with as we approach 2024.


‘Running’ showcases a matured Reuben, something of a unique blend between Brent Faiyaz and Omar Apollo. His soulful vocals, accompanied by intricate guitar arrangements, convey the struggles of young romance with both pain and tenderness. The track, with its robust drums, breathes life into the narrative, making it a compelling addition to Reuben’s ever-expanding repertoire. As he revs up his musical journey, there’s no sign of the songwriter slowing down soon, with a vault of unreleased music that’s poised to leave a mark on his future musical landscape.

 

Tap into Reuben’s musical firsts below.

First song you ever made?
I don’t even remember, damn. I guess my first memory of writing a song was when I was around 10 and I had just watched Let it Shine. I had this book as a kid for all my lyrics and I remember writing a rap song that night after watching it. That movie was so hard.
First time you fell in love with music?
I think falling in love with something or someone doesn’t happen at one moment. I think over time you just fall for it more and more. So, I guess to this day I still am.
First CD or record you owned?
Thriller by Michael Jackson
First time you realised you wanted to be an artist?
As a kid, I always had dreams of doing something great, whether that was through ball or music, but I guess around the age of eight I took to Michael Jackson, and wanted to be like him.
First gig you went to?
A Lord Apex show from a couple years ago in Brixton.
First time you faced an obstacle in your career?
When I first crossed the same bridge that every artist does, thinking, ‘Do I make a song that I think people will like or just do what I feel is right?’. This is a question that took me a minute to tackle, but ultimately, the most important thing is to do what I want. Otherwise, I wont convey the most transparent version of my emotions and what I innately want to create.
First instrument you owned?
I remember getting a drum kit when I was eight, I think for Christmas. It wasn’t an actual one, it was one of those electric ones. I’ll always be grateful for that.
First time you felt like giving up?
This is corny, but never! Why would I? I truly love this shit, so even if I wanted to stop I know that after some time I’d come right back. In my mind there’s nothing to even give up on, this isn’t an option, it’s the only thing I’ve got.
First time you felt starstruck?
My earliest memory of being starstruck is probably from a Disney movie. I think as a kid most things leave you starstruck, surprised or astounded. Everything is new to you, it’s almost unbelievable and I love that feeling of curiosity. I watch Pixar films all the time to just feel those emotions again, nostalgically. It really inspires my music.
First time you ticked off a bucket list goal?
I haven’t really got a bucket list. I guess something I’d always wanted to do is eat Chick-fil-A and it didn’t disappoint. It’ll still never beat a Morley’s, though.

Watch the Running (Acoustic Live Video) now:

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