Where Independent Music Finds Its Voice

Meet Rueth: South Africa’s Rising R&B Star Making Waves Internationally

Rueth, born Ruth Mafapane on January 27, 2002, is an independent South African R&B singer-songwriter on the rise. With a distinctive voice and undeniable talent, she’s already building a name for herself in the global music scene. Her journey began in 2021 with the release of her debut single Nobody, a soulful blend of R&B and TrapSoul, which set the stage for her career. Since then, Rueth has released two studio albums—I’m Rueth in 2021 and The Playlist in 2022—and her music continues to gain momentum, including the breakout success of her 2023 single Body Language, which has garnered airplay on radio stations in Atlanta, Washington, and South Africa.

Balancing her music career with academics, Rueth graduated from Mafolofolo High School and is currently studying Psychology at the University of South Africa. Her artistry draws inspiration from icons like Shekhinah, Tems, and Ayra Starr, shaping her unique fusion of R&B, Soul, and Pop.

Recently, Rueth signed a music distribution deal with German distributor Dig Dis and partnered with Maurah Creative Agency for her label, Tarue Records. With her new album CUPID in the works for 2025, Rueth is preparing to explore new sounds that blend Pop, R&B, and Soul.

In this interview, Rueth opens up about her journey, her creative process, and her vision for the future as she aims to inspire listeners and cement her place as a global icon.

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Tell us about yourself, who are you and where do you come from?

I am Ruth Mafapane an R&B singer and songwriter from South Africa, graduated from Mafolofolo High School and currently a Psycholoy Student at University of South Africa.

How was your passion for music born? Who are your idols?

My passion for music was fascinating because the first song I recorded received a lot of feedback and i wasn’t sure if was my thing at first. My musical idols are Tems, Ayrra Starr, Tinashe and Doja Cat.

What kind of music do you do?

I make R&B, Pop and Dance.

What is the most important song for you? What message do you want to convey to the listener?

The most important song I recorded was “Body Language” and it talks about a girl who is expressing her love to her ” Crush”, she’s explaining her feelings to him and telling him to pay attention so they can be on the same page. Body Language has that emotional feel that makes it sound as a sad song but in actual fact its a seductive song hence the mood and content.

Why should a listener who doesn’t know you listen to your music?

My music is a fusion of R&B, Soul and Pop and which can be listened by listeners between 16-45 depends on the mood. It’s the kind of music a person would listen to whenever they need uplifting or love motivation to become the best versions of themselves.

What are your future projects? Where do you see yourself 5 years from now?

I’m planning on releasing a third album 2025 and i want to see myself as a global mainstream singer and songwriters who is an icon to the next generation.

Tell our readers a funny episode that happened in your career as an artist.

The question wasn’t answered!

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