The Cape Town native continues to warm hearts with his unique twist on indie pop.
Hailing from Cape Town, South Africa, artist and singer-songwriter Ruben Gerritz is primed to bring funky musical sunshine to your everyday rotation. Captivating audiences with his unique mixtures of indie-pop fused with a distinctly African funk-inspired touch, Gerritz’s natural talent for music seems only eclipsed by the passion that underlines his every release. As each subsequent release either maintains or exceeds the high standards Gerritz has set for himself, he’s steadily positioning himself for a breakout year in 2024.
Gerritz’s openness and willingness to incorporate many different genres becomes even more impressive with his musical heritage in traditional blues. By his own admission, he’s always willing to eliminate musical boundaries, and that’s a significant part of why his music has managed to stand out, even in a music industry that’s more saturated than ever. With four successful European tours already under his belt, Gerritz continues to impress on the stage and in the studio.
“Smell Like Vanilla” sees Gerritz send off 2023 with a bang. As Gerritz invites you to “come on closer,” a gentle guitar holds your hand and eases you into the release. The initial reaction to “Smell Like Vanilla” is that it feels warm, loving, and familiar; it’s tinged with soft yet pleasant instrumental play, and Gerritz’s tender and joyous vocals swell your spirits. As Gerritz sings his heart out, lines like “I’m just trying to ease your mind” and “So come on closer / take my hand and come inside” are delivered with pure joy and affection that simply melt your heart.
Ruben Gerritz’s new release, “Smells Like Vanilla,” is a delightful, light, and heartwarming release that will help warm your heart during this Christmas season. Whenever you’re ready, tap in and stream Ruben Gerritz’s new release, “Smells Like Vanilla,” on all majour streaming platforms.
Welcome to BUZZ, Ruben Gerritz! We loved "Smells Like Vanilla." What a lovely release and refreshing twist on the indie-pop genre! What went through your mind when you heard the completed version of this release for the first time?
Making the track has been a real rollercoaster. Having written, produced, and mixed the track, it has gone through multiple song versions. When I finally found the final version, it was an incredible experience. What went through my mind was that I felt like the song had finally come to life.
What was your favorite part of the creative process while making "Smells Like Vanilla?"
My favorite part was seeing the chorus coming to life. After many different versions, the one that ended up sticking was the one that I had in my head from the beginning.
What initially inspired you to become an artist?
I grew up in a very musical family. So, I was always surrounded by music. Only at 17 did I want to do music full-time. After seeing a few of my favorite bands and artists at 17, I thought, "I want to be like them." It's been an exciting but challenging journey. I truly feel the best is still to come and that I always try to achieve bigger success.
What do you believe is the most essential quality for a musician to have?
I truly feel honesty and commitment are top qualities. Be honest with yourself and your music. Being true to oneself in what you believe your music is and can be. Once committed to writing a song, doing a show, or even recording an album, you must trust the process and keep your commitment. In the same breath, being honest with people and musicians around you.
What's next for Ruben Gerritz? Can we expect to hear more new music soon, and is there anything you'd like to say to your fans?
I am working on three new songs that will be released next year. It's super exciting, and new things are coming. To all my fans and new fans discovering me, thank you! And stick around; it's going to be an incredible journey!