Ruben

A Norwegian vocalist, composer, and studio craftsman, Ruben crafts atmospheric pop that blends introspective singing with assured hooks, supported by hybrid arrangements that draw on both symphonic elements and EDM production. Candid about his struggles with psychological challenges that began in adolescence, he has explored themes including melancholy, insecurity, and solitude throughout his work. His inaugural release, the 2017 single “Walls,” spread rapidly online and eventually climbed into the national Top 10.

Born and raised in the modest settlement of Bjarkøy in northern Norway, Ruben Markussen first found his voice by testing various harmonic combinations and tonal shades. Still in his early twenties, he issued “Walls” in late 2017; its unexpected traction led him to relocate to Oslo. Shortly afterward he secured a contract with Universal Norway, which put the track out again in early 2018. The song remained on the Norwegian singles chart for more than half a year, reaching a peak of number eight while also appearing at number 59 in Sweden. Its successor, “The Half,” entered the Norwegian Top 20 before the year ended, and the pattern continued with 2019’s “Lay by Me,” which also peaked at number eight domestically and reached Sweden’s Top 30. These three tracks formed the core of his debut EP, the five-song Melancholic, issued in May 2019.