“Ru C.L” a.k.a Rueben Campbell is one of the most exciting artists to emerge from Australia’s thriving Hip Hop scene. His talent is evident on every track of his debut album “Straight Down The Line” which he recorded and mixed in Bristol UK. This album is truly world-class.
Based in Melbourne with Jamaican/Australian heritage, Ru C.L is a MC with truly universal appeal.
Ru C.L has been performing in various capacities for some time. Throughout the years he has built a reputation within the hip hop community, supporting international acts such as Jurassic 5, Pharcyde, Mad Professor, Lee ‘Scratch’ Perry, Supernatural, DJ Craze and more. He has appeared on the same bill with the Black Eyed Peas.
Ru C.L has been making his presence felt in the underground scene since the early nineties. His first release being a track with the group ‘Mama’s Funk’ in 1995. Through the nineties Ru C.L has been honing his style through much live performance. His experience has been broad – with projects like “Guerrilla Style Tactics” (his self-funded EP) to live performances at festivals such as Big Day Out, Homebake and Vibes on a Summer’s Day. In 1998 Ru C.L made a guest appearance on 1200 Techniques “Hard as Hell” album and video clip.
Ru C.L’s skills & musical background are evident in his diverse lyrical styles. He moves effortlessly between rugged hip hop vocals, Jamaican Dancehall (Sean Paul style), and soulful R&B. His exceptional talent was recognised by Invada Records who immediately signed him to their label after spotting him at an open mic session during UK duo Rodney P & Skits’ show in Melbourne.
Ru C.L has made numerous trips to Jamaica to visit family and friends over the years. In the nineties, he studied music in Kingston at the Jamaican School of Music.
A big influence in his musical upbringing has been Queen Jigzie who is Jamaican born, and who appears on two tracks on his album. Queen Jigzie is a singer, dancer, choreographer and part of the educational stage show “Jamaica Irie” which tours schools.
Rueben comes from a very creative family – his sister is a singer & dancer in large theatre productions and his late father was a renowned artist.
Didn’t know my cousin was in the house. Gonna look up and listen to your projects for real. Hip hop junkie for years
My eldest is named Oshea after Ice Cube
Enjoying the tracks you sent Keep doing your thing man it’s blessed