Meet Ruti ✨

Joining us at The O2 and OVO Wembley Arena!

Ruti is a soulful singer-songwriter who first gained national attention after winning The Voice UK in 2018, mentored by Sir Tom Jones. Known for her heartfelt lyrics and distinctive sound, she’s since performed at major festivals, appeared on BBC Radio 1 and BBC Introducing, and will support Olivia Rodrigo at BST Hyde Park later this year.

A proud former Young Voices choir member, Ruti joined YV in 2007 with her school, performing alongside Beverley Knight. She returned as a guest artist in 2020 and 2023 – and we’re thrilled to welcome her back for YV26!

We caught up with Ruti to talk about her journey, YV memories and what it means to be back.

What’s it like coming back to Young Voices as a guest artist for the 30th Anniversary?

You have no idea how excited I am for Young Voices! I have been to every year since the last time I was a special guest in 2022. So to be part of the tour this year is another dream come true!

Can you remember your first YV performance? What stuck with you the most?

Of course I can! Definitely just singing with 6,000 other school kids. I can remember the buzz in the excitement just before the show like it was yesterday. And it feels the same being a special guest – you can feel the excitement in the air.

How did being part of Young Voices help shape your journey in music?

I think Young Voices 2007 was the moment I realised that I wanted to perform. It was also actually one of the first live music concerts I ever saw – let alone performed in. I remember feeling like I needed to be up there with her.

What advice would you give to kids singing with YV for the first time?

Just have the best time ever!! I know that seems quite obvious, but it’s easy to get in your own head before and during a performance. It doesn’t matter if you make any mistakes – I make mistakes on stage all the time!

Singing with other people is one of the most beautiful experiences, so enjoy it with your friends and teachers and be part of a bigger picture!

If your younger YV self could see you now, what moment would make them proud?

Honestly, being on the Young Voices stage was one of my dreams as an 8-year-old! If my younger self saw me performing my own music at The O2, they’d probably explode!!

If you could describe Young Voices in just three words, what would they be?

Magical. Inspiring. Wholesome.