Interview Nuha Ruby Ra: “There was high energy [in Germany]”

Ahead of her set at Reeperbahn Festival this weekend, we catch up with the East London avant-punk artist.

20th September 2022

This month will see the full-on return of Reeperbahn Festival as Hamburg prepares to play host to acts from across the globe. From big names like Joy Crookes and Anna Calvi, through to newer favourites like Crawlers, Honeyglaze, Naima Bock and Sinead O’Brien - the streets will be literally paved with buzz.

We’ll be returning to Europe’s favourite venue - Molotow - on Wednesday 21st, with The Mysterines, STONE, The Goa Express and Lime Garden.

Nuha Ruby Ra, meanwhile, travels to Hamburg hot on the heels of a summer that’s taken in festivals across the continent following a spring that saw her support Class of 2022 superstars Yard Act, post-punk outfit Bambara and work with some big names.

We last saw you back in March at SXSW - what have you been up to in the interim?
I’ve been on tour ever since! With maybe three or four days off in between. I’m very tired, frequently insane, often emotional and very happy. After SXSW I went on tour with Warmduscher, then did a couple of shoots with two of my favourite photographers - Hedi Slimane and Maisie Cousins. I’m a huge of fan of both their work so they were high points for me! Then I carried on back-to-back touring with Bambara, Viagra Boys, Yard Act, and King Gizzard.

I did manage to run away for a little holiday on my one week off just before festivals started, though. It’s been a great and very full festival season. It’s a good job being on stage is one of my favourite things.

Any standout festival highlights so far in 2022?
Playing Glastonbury for the first time was of course a dream come true! I ended up doing five shows at Glastonbury I think.. Bluedot felt like a very special show as well.

Where has been your favourite place to travel through touring this year?
Austin and SXSW was electric! I got off the plane straight to play the DIY show at the British Music Embassy which felt insane on many levels, it was the best start to the week! I had a great crew of friends who were also playing this year. I spent my days mostly with Sinead O’Brien and band and Faux Real. Between us we know how to find a good time.

You’re playing Reeperbahn Festival in Hamburg. How have any previous shows in Germany gone?
I’ve played two shows in Germany this year - with Viagra Boys in Hamburg and Cologne. They were incredible. I got a very warm reception and there was high energy. I am a big fan of both.

Tags: Nuha Ruby Ra, Festivals, Features, Interviews