Where are you from?
I’m from New York, born and raised!
What is your earliest memory of music?
Definitely childhood, I grew up with music around me. My dad was a musician and my mom and family had a huge appreciation of music. I remember watching my dad play his organ and listening to all the music he made. Lots of fun music memories honestly.
When did you start being an artist?
I think since childhood as well. I was a very creative kid and had (and think I still have) a vast imagination. I was doing little school plays and talent shows too.
How would you describe your style?
All over the place honestly. Definitely rooted in futurism/space, but also it truly ebbs and flows. I’m an evolving creature and I think that really goes with what I put out to the world.
Are there any particular themes or messages that you often explore in your music?
I notice themes of love and self-acceptance come up a lot. There’s a few others that pop up too. I think it just depends on the song. Cycles was about acknowledging and breaking patterns, Slow was about feeling like you’re moving too slow and you have to keep moving, Back to Me was about being at your worst and wanting to get back to the core of who you are… etc.
What is the meaning behind your stage name?
It’s my first & middle name
What is the story behind your most famous song?
My song 12×2 was the first song I released on streaming platforms that I fully produced myself. It was quite literally thinking about someone for 24 hours, hence 12×2. It wasn’t actually based on any person, the chorus just kinda came to me and I thought it sounded good.
What is the hardest thing about being an artist?
I think there’s many things that aren’t easy about being an artist. There’s a lot of instability and mental torture. I think we’re our biggest critics.
What’s the best thing about being an artist?
That we get to create and make things! Being an artist is one of the most fun things. I find so much joy in creating.
What are your goals for your music career?
My goal is honestly to be able to create music for as long as I can. I want to tour and open myself up to new audiences as well. I have a few other goals but want to keep them to myself.
What do you like to do in your free time (outside of music)?
I love to travel and explore. I also am really into astrology, I’ve been really into it since my teen years. I also really enjoy photography, video editing, hosting events, etc.
Do you get involved with charities or causes that are important to you?
Whenever I’m able to yes! I donate to Planned Parenthood and instead of selling clothes or items I like to just give it a way to Goodwill or other places like it.
What is something that people would be surprised to know about you?
I was on Sesame Street as a kid. Fun little fact.
What does a typical day look like for you?
It varies, every day is different. I wish I could say what a typical day is for me but every day truly is different!
Do you have any upcoming projects we can be excited about?
I have some remixes coming up soon which I’m looking forward to and of course new music!
What are some of the standout tracks on your latest project?
In my opinion, Cycles, Surreal & 12×2.
What are your favorite topics to write about?
I don’t have a favorite topic specifically to write about. I like to write about whatever comes about when I’m hearing the beat. I will say the ones I’ve enjoyed the most were ironically about transmuting the negative moments that I’ve gone through into something positive.
How do you deal with creative block or artist block?
I feel I’ve been going through a bit of that recently and it sucks. I don’t like to force anything so usually I’ll just wait it out but this more recent time has been really hard to navigate – mainly because I have the desire to create. I know that when it comes though, it will be better than if I had forced it out right now.
What is the best advice anyone has ever given you?
“Life is all about decisions.” It really is. Sometimes the thought of that alone gives me decision fatigue.
What was the best show or tour you have ever been on?
Honestly I think the best has yet to come but so far my more recent show at Pianos was one of my favorite shows I’ve done.
What’s been your favorite moment of your career so far?
A toss up between the Amazing Radio showcase I did and my album release at Nublu. Both were big highlights for me. I’ve had more since which I’m super grateful for but I think those were big defining moments so far.
Where can people find your music online?
I’m on all streaming platforms (Spotify, Apple Music, Tidal, YouTube, etc) under Reuben Reuel.
