Experience 90s Nostalgia with Ruby Shabazz's 'Step Off'"
Ruby Shabazz, whose first name is Rabihah but is commonly called Ruby, hails from the neighborhood of Roxbury in Boston, MA. Ruby's music is a blend of Contemporary R&B, Neo Soul, and a touch of hip hop, creating a sound that resonates with her listeners. Ruby’s musical journey is deeply influenced by the legends of Motown and R&B. Icons like Smokey Robinson, Stevie Wonder, Michael Jackson, Aretha Franklin, and Chaka Khan have shaped her style. She also draws inspiration from the artists she grew up listening to, such as Donna Summer, Whitney Houston, and Mariah Carey. Ruby’s hip hop influences include pioneering female emcees like MC Lyte, Queen Latifah, and Yo-Yo, as well as artists like Left Eye, Nas, and Lauryn Hill.
Her latest single, "Step Off," features Fee the Evolutionist and is produced by Boston hip hop legend Edo G. This track is a part of an EP project that Ruby is working on with Edo G and Paris beat maker SAMerican. The EP, consisting of five songs, brings back the nostalgia of the 90s R&B and hip hop sound that Ruby grew up with. The songs take listeners on a journey of loss, grief, growth, and acceptance. "Step Off" is a fun yet meaningful track for Ruby. It speaks about maintaining one's peace, a vital message after enduring significant challenges. Ruby, a Roxbury native, feels a deep connection working with Edo G, who also hails from Roxbury, making this collaboration a full circle moment for her. The song balances humor and truth, emphasizing the importance of recognizing when people and situations are not beneficial and how to keep one's peace. Ruby Shabazz is an artist to watch, bringing her rich influences and authentic voice to the forefront of contemporary music. Ruby recently performed at Juneteenth 2024 events in Concord, NH, for the BLM chapter in NH and the Black Women in New Hampshire group. These community-centered performances are close to her heart.
For those looking to catch Ruby live, here are her upcoming shows:
Friday, 7/26: Folk Festival, Lowell, MA, at Warp & Weft, 9 PM with the Evolutionist band.
Saturday, 8/17: We Are One Festival, Manchester, NH, at Veterans Park, 1 PM.
Friday, 8/23: Barcode Lounge & Grill, Manchester, NH, 9 PM with the Evolutionist band.
Sunday, 9/22: Concord Multicultural Festival, Concord, NH, at Keach Park, 2 PM.
Listen to "Step Off"
Connect with Ruby Shabazz:
Instagram - Twitter - Linktree