Ruel’s track for Lifeline, is like a reliable companion, a song for those sailing through choppy waters.
Teaming up with Lifeline, the trusted helpline celebrating 60 years of support, Aussie maestro Ruel, drops his latest track, ‘The Weight’.
This soulful number, recorded initially for Ruel’s ‘4TH WALL’ album, slides right into Lifeline’s ‘The Release Line’.
Its lyrics echo Lifeline’s mission, nudging us all to lend a hand to those in need, letting them know they’re never alone.
In this chat, Ruel shares how ‘The Weight’ found its home in this partnership. His rock-solid belief in talking openly about mental well-being sets the tone, highlighting the need for safe spaces.
Join us as Ruel’s melodic journey intertwines with Lifeline’s six-decade legacy, painting a picture of hope, support, and the magic of reaching out.
Happy: Can you tell us about the creative process behind your new track, ‘The Weight’? What inspired the lyrics and the sound?
Ruel: The original song is actually from the time I was producing my album ‘4TH WALL. The original song didn’t make sense to be included on the album and when we got the call from Lifeline, we knew it was perfect for this so we re-wrote the unreleased track, which is available for Aussies to listen to when they call The Release Line number on 1300 004 002. The lyrics speak to the work Lifeline does, and that’s creating safe spaces for people to open up to share how they’re feeling and knowing they’re not alone.
Happy: How did the partnership with Lifeline come about, and what motivated you to get involved in raising funds for their essential services?
Ruel: Mental health is a huge topic in today’s youth culture, and being part of a generation that encourages conversations around mental health is an incredible thing to be part of. When Lifeline reached out to me for their 60th birthday and shared their idea for ‘The Release Line’, it was a no brainer for me to get involved. Creating a safe environment for my fans to reach out and share their struggles is so important to me, I want to make sure they always feel that way when they’re part of this community.
Happy: What do you hope listeners will take away from ‘The Weight’? Is there a specific message or emotion you aim to convey?
Ruel: We really wanted to show that talking to somebody can make a huge impact on the way you’re feeling. The line “take the weight of your shoulders and put them on mine” is a reminder to talk with somebody whether that’s a friend, family member or a professional . It’s about sharing how you feel in a safe and supportive environment. It’s also a reminder to everyone to look out for each other and reach out if you know your friend is struggling.
Happy: You’ve mentioned that mental health is an important conversation. How do you personally practice self-care and prioritize your own well-being in the music industry?
Ruel: I’ve been really lucky that I have a strong support network of friends and family who encourage me to lean on them in times of need. I’ve been raised to believe that asking for help is always welcome, and I think self-care comes with who you surround yourself with and who you’re comfortable with sharing your problems. It’s important to have that circle of support, I really value that in my life.
Happy: As someone with a significant platform, how do you think artists like yourself can contribute to fostering open dialogues about mental health and support?
Ruel: When you have a platform like mine, being part of the conversation is really important to help normalise topics around mental health and to break down barriers. if you don’t have a traditional support system like so many people don’t, It’s about being able to reach those who are struggling and letting them know that it’s ok not to be ok, and you don’t have to go through it alone.
Happy: With Lifeline’s 60th birthday and ‘The Release Line’ initiative, what do you find most inspiring about the work they’ve been doing for six decades?
Ruel: Lifeline has played a huge role in breaking down stigmas around suicide and mental health. For a long time, mental health has been a taboo subject and it’s with this generation that people are starting to speak up. Hearing stories from Lifeline callers and the work thats done with suicide prevention has left me in awe of the impact Lifeline has had.
It’s incredible to think over the course of 60 years Lifeline has received over 23 millions calls from Aussies in need. All it takes is one call to make a difference to somebody’s life and I’m proud to work with Lifeline to encourage Aussies to call up the Release Line number (1300 004 002) or visit here to donate as little as $5 to help much needed funds, it’s really that easy.
Happy: In your opinion, what role does music play in providing solace and support to individuals facing challenging times?
Ruel: Since being in the industry, I’ve found I’m faced with fans who are really struggling, and they’ve told me my music gives them the courage to stay strong and keep going. It’s great to see what kind of impact my lyrics can have on a person and it’s those moments when you meet somebody you’ve inspired that I carry with me whenever I’m creating new music.
Happy: Reflecting on your journey as an artist, how has your perspective on mental health and well-being evolved over the years?
Ruel: I’ve been lucky to know discussions on mental wellbeing were always encouraged in my social circle. I think if anything, the past few years have taught me that not everyone has had the same experience and it’s more important than ever to keep those conversations going.
Mental Health is not a trend, it’s a real human issue that affects us all and I want to continue participating in causes such as The Release Line to show more people how they can get involved and to keep sharing messages of support to Aussies in need.
Happy: For those who may be struggling right now, what advice or words of encouragement would you offer them?
Ruel: Please reach out. We hear you and you are not alone. The first and hardest part of recovery is saying it out loud. Whether that’s your friend, colleague or calling up a platform like Lifeline, sharing what you’re feeling and not bottling it up can seem scary but the reality is not talking to somebody can have a scarier outcome.
Happy: Lastly, what makes you happy?
Ruel: Being afforded a platform that’s helped me reach millions with my music and connect with people across the globe has been an incredible experience and one that I’m truly thankful for. Songwriting and performing has been my dream from a young age and I’m happy that I get to share my life through music.
To listen and donate as little as $5, call 1300 004 002 locally, or internationally on +61 2 8039 3349 or head to lifeline for more details.
