Ruthie delves on her music journey, creative tastes & new single “Too Much”
Great to have you on Xttrawave. Please, introduce yourself.
My name’s Ruthie! I’m a singer-songwriter born in Portland, OR, and I live in Nashville, TN, currently.
My name is special to me because it’s my great-grandmother’s name. My full name is Ruthanne, but anytime I’ve introduced myself, I’ve always just been “Ruthie”. It seemed like the most genuine artist moniker, and RUTHIE was born!
What got you into music and made you realize that it was your chosen path?
I’ve been singing before I could talk. My mom even claims I was dancing in utero when music would play! Music always seemed like the most natural path for me to pursue. As for writing, I remember being taught early on that if I’d like to sing and perform, I’d have to create my own songs. And ever since then, I’ve been obsessed with songwriting! I am very lucky to have people around me, pushing and supporting me to grow in my writing and musicianship. Currently, I attend Belmont University as a songwriting major and music business minor. I’ve thrown myself into the industry, and I am so excited for the future!
Tell us about your new music? And what’s the story behind it?
My debut single, “Too Much”, is a story about confidence and being a badass. The song is all about women empowerment and ignoring dumb-ass guys. We shouldn’t listen to what men see as the norm– we should define our own normal!
All in all, as cocky as the song sounds, it’s the song that even I need to hear. When I sing “Too Much”, I get an extra push to show off my self-worth.
Is it a standalone single or can folks expect to see it on an upcoming EP or LP perhaps?
It’s a standalone single, and it won’t be the last! I’ve just finished the process of my EP, and my team and I are working on getting it polished for a future release.
How would you describe your sound and style to those wondering what you’re all about? What makes your music unique?
I’d describe my style as Indie-Pop and Acoustic-Pop. I consider myself a melody writer first and a lyric writer second– catchy melodies are so important to me. I do take a lot of pride in my lyrics, doing my best to get syllables lined up and for the concept to add to the song. I’m not afraid to say what I’m thinking, however weird or mundane, and I believe that my perspective and songwriting can take old stories and make them new.
What does success as a musician and songwriter mean to you?
Success as a songwriter is a concept I’ve struggled with– I think, for me, success means making songwriting my full-time, sustainable career. Moving forward, I’d love to become an artist, and performing is so much fun!
How do you balance your music with other obligations – family, friends, or work?
I have three internships, a part-time job, school, and a full-time music career. I’ve excelled at organization and time management. Self-awareness is incredibly important to my mental health, and anytime I need a break, I call my mom or my friends, ask for a picture of dogs in Portland, and remember that music and writing is my dream. I’m willing to work for it.
What advice would you give to aspiring musicians?
If you love something enough, it won’t matter what everyone else says! Pursue your passion, accept rejection, and tell doubt to shove it.
If you had one message to give to your fans, what would it be?
I can’t wait to meet all of you! Thank you for streaming and listening 🙂
What’s next for you?
I’m not sure! I know I’ll never stop writing, and I have a lot more music I want to put out. I suppose we’ll see. 🙂
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