The Rubens: Did You Know?
The Rubens: Fun Facts & Little-Known Stories About the Aussie Indie-Rock Band
The Rubens have captured the hearts of fans worldwide with their infectious indie rock sound, combining soul and rock in a uniquely Australian way. While their hits like "Hoops" and "My Gun" have gained significant popularity, there’s more to this band than meets the ear. Here are some fun facts and lesser-known stories about The Rubens that every fan should know!
1. The Garage That Sparked It All
The Rubens' debut album, self-titled The Rubens, was recorded in an unusual but totally fitting location: their parents' garage. The space wasn't just a place for parking cars—it was transformed into their very own DIY recording studio. The garage sessions not only helped shape their sound but also kept their vibe raw and authentic. The album went on to reach number three on the Australian ARIA charts, proving that even the humblest of beginnings can lead to success.
2. A Family Affair
The Rubens are more than just a band—they’re family. Three of the members—Sam, Elliott, and Zaac Margin—are brothers, with Scott Baldwin and William Zeglis rounding out the lineup. This tight-knit dynamic gives the band a special chemistry, both in their songwriting and live performances. Growing up together and sharing the same music influences means they’re always on the same page, which makes for some incredible creative collaboration.
3. Recording in New York City with a Hip-Hop Legend
After the success of their debut album, The Rubens caught the attention of hip-hop royalty. Legendary producer David Kahne, known for his work with artists like Paul McCartney and Lana Del Rey, took the band under his wing and invited them to record their second album, Hoops, in New York City. The album was a game-changer for the band, with the title track becoming a smash hit. Working with Kahne in the Big Apple was an unforgettable experience, allowing the band to broaden their horizons and experiment with new sounds.
4. Their Own Backyard Festival
The Rubens are not just about making music; they’re also about creating a sense of community. In 2019, they launched their very own festival called Rubens' Valley Ways, held in Camden, New South Wales—their hometown. The festival brought together music lovers from all over, featuring performances by The Rubens and other Australian acts. Hosting their own festival was a dream come true for the band, as it allowed them to give back to the town that shaped them.
5. The "Million Dollar Song"
In 2020, The Rubens entered a competition run by the Australian radio station Triple J, called "Triple J Unearthed's 2020 Dream Recording Competition." The winner would get the chance to record with a Grammy-winning producer, and the band's song "Heavy Weather" earned them the grand prize. The win gave them the opportunity to work with the internationally renowned producer John Hill, who’s worked with the likes of Eminem and Florence + The Machine. This was a huge milestone for the band and took their music to the next level.
6. Secret Pre-Show Rituals
Like many bands, The Rubens have their own pre-show rituals to pump themselves up before they hit the stage. One of their quirky habits? A good old-fashioned game of table tennis. The band travels with a foldable ping pong table on tour and uses it to unwind and build some friendly competition between band members. It’s their way of loosening up, but it’s also a good bonding experience before stepping into the limelight.
7. A Fan-Fueled Music Video
The music video for their song "Live in Life" is not your average video. The band invited their fans to submit video clips of themselves living life during quarantine, and the final product was a touching compilation of people from all walks of life dancing, laughing, and celebrating everyday moments. This fan-driven video created a strong sense of connection between the band and their listeners during a challenging time.
The Rubens are a band full of surprises, and their journey from a small garage in Australia to international stages is a testament to their passion, talent, and close-knit bond. Whether they’re working with legendary producers or playing ping pong backstage, The Rubens continue to carve their unique path in the music world, and it’s clear they’re only just getting started. The Rubens have a number of powerful and evocative lyrics, but one of their most meaningful can be found in their hit song "Hoops." The line that stands out for many fans is:
"I don't wanna be the one to say it, but I have to. You're better off without me."
This lyric resonates because it captures a moment of painful self-awareness and vulnerability, reflecting the complicated emotions of realizing you're not good for someone, even if you still care deeply for them. It's about letting go, even when it hurts, and that theme of emotional sacrifice gives the song its depth.
"Hoops" as a whole explores themes of self-doubt, regret, and the difficulty of relationships, and this particular lyric underscores the bittersweet nature of walking away for the other person's benefit. It's a line that connects deeply with listeners who have experienced similar struggles.