Ruby Wood - No Rain, No Flowers (EP) + 10 Questions

Ruby Wood returns with her second solo EP, No Rain, No Flowers, an introspective eight track collection that finds the Huddersfield singer-songwriter embracing growth through life's most difficult moments. Released via First Word Records, the project blends soulful R&B, hip hop and contemporary soul, exploring themes of love, grief, healing and the relationships that leave a lasting mark.

Best known as the voice of Submotion Orchestra, Ruby continues to carve out her own identity as a solo artist following the success of her 2023 debut EP Sincerely. Warm, richly textured production from Abstract Orchestra's Rob Mitchell provides the perfect backdrop for collaborations with Illa J, Devin Tracy, Abnormal Sleepz and PRIDO, each adding their own perspective without detracting from the EP's deeply personal core. Having shared stages with Bryson Tiller, Bonobo, Nightmares on Wax and Nubiyan Twist, Ruby brings the confidence of a seasoned performer while keeping the songwriting intimate and emotionally honest. No Rain, No Flowers is a beautifully understated release that proves some of the most meaningful growth comes through life's toughest seasons.

Ruby Wood sat down with Wordplay Magazine to answer our infamous 10 Questions:

1. So tell me, how did it all begin? What sparked your love for music?

Thankfully; My parents provided me with a very rich musical upbringing. I was always taken along to gigs and festivals…. and there was always music being played around the house, from Jazz to Classical, Soca to African music. I played steel pan in a band called North Stars Steel Orchestra from age 7 which definitely gave me valuable understanding of music, rhythm, harmony and melody. Singing came after all this, my parents took me to the gig of an American blues singer called Angela Brown and I was obsessed! I think that was the moment I decided that I wanted to sing!

2. Who are some artists that influence you and that you want to work with in the future?

I love Alex Isley! Her voice, her delivery and the way she understands music. I can just imagine jamming together with the phone on record and creating something really beautiful…. A gal can dream huh!

3. What projects do you have coming up and can you give us any info on them?

Well, hopefully another Submotion album! I really enjoyed the making of the last one ‘Passed me by’ so I’m totally up for doing more! And for myself; more writing and collaborating. I love collaboration!

4. How would you describe your sound?

Jazzy alt r’n’b, sung with a Yorkshire accent!

5. What's your proudest moment to date so far as an artist?

Meeting and working with Illa J. My teenage years were spent listening on repeat to a healthy dose of J Dilla and Slum Village so 20 years later for me to be working with Illa J is a dream come true! He really brought the song to life and reminded me that no matter who you are, or where you come from, the music and energy speaks for itself! It was an honour to have made ‘This thing called life’ with him and Abstract Orchestra.

6. Do you have any advice for our readers who may be trying to play the mad game of music?

Always remind yourself why started doing this in the first place! What was that spark? What was the thing that got you excited and said, “Yea that’s what I wanna do!”. For me it was watching Angela Brown brings songs to life, and have the audience in the palm of her hands. Everyone was hanging on her every word. The playfulness she had with her band members, the freedom of the music and the connection between the audience. I loved that and I wanted that too.

I always need to remind myself of why I started.

7. Are there any artists on your radar right now that we should check out?

Ruby Francis, Sipprell, Emmavie, Victoria Port, Isaac Malibu, Papaya Noon to name but a few.

8. What albums are on heavy rotation on your Spotify playlist currently?

I love the new Seu Jorge album, ‘The other side’, I’ve been listening to it a lot in the sunshine this summer!

9. What do you like to do when you're not making music?

I love to spend quality time with my daughter Amber, boyfriend Nick and his two children. We have lots of fun, and I love our little blended family.

10. Name Three things you can't live without when in the studio?

Water, yogi throat comfort tea and quesadillas made by Rob Mitchell.