Ruby Walvin

Name, where are you from?
Ruby Walvin, from Leicester.

Describe your style in three words?
Smart, seventies, bold.

What’s the best gig you’ve ever been to?
I’ve been lucky enough to see lots of gigs but one that stands out is Squeeze. I couldn’t take my eyes off the stage, it was a really polished performance and the vocals were amazing. I’ve seen them twice and both times I’ve been impressed.

If you could be on the line up with any two bands in history?
The Police and Crowded House. Two of my all-time favourite bands. I think The Police were before their time with their way of writing and their sound. Crowded House reminds me of my childhood, listening to them really influenced the way I write my lyrics.

Which subcultures have influenced you?
I’d say I’ve been quite influenced by the mod and skinhead subcultures.
I discovered them when I was around 15, and they've guided my style since then. Maybe even a little bit of disco thrown in there, depending on what day it is.

If you could spend an hour with anyone from history?
David Bowie. Bowie has been one of my favourite artists ever since I was a kid.
There are so many questions I would want to ask him, especially about what went into creating 'The Rise and Fall of Ziggy Stardust and The Spiders From Mars' album. I always thought I’d get to see him live at some point; I was gutted when he passed.

Of all the venues you’ve played, which is your favourite?
I don’t really have a favourite at the minute but I much prefer playing in intimate settings. Places I’ve performed in the past like local pubs and bars made me feel the most at home. I haven’t played a live gig in a long while due to covid and treatment but I’m excited to get back to it when I can!

Your greatest unsung hero or heroine in music?
Emily King, she’s got one of the best voices I’ve ever heard, it's honestly like melted butter. She also writes some beautiful songs, I discovered her in 2019 and I haven’t stopped listening to her since.