From teenage sensation to global star, Ruel opens a new chapter with the release of his highly anticipated sophomore album, Kicking My Feet, out today via Giant Music. Spanning 11 tracks, the album captures Ruel’s evolution as both songwriter and storyteller, pushing deeper into the emotional vulnerability and sonic richness that define his artistry.
Introduced by the first track, “Not What’s Going On,” the record lays Ruel’s heart bare, exploring love that lingers, fades, and transforms. Building on the stripped-back vulnerability of recent singles “Wild Guess,” “I Can Die Now,” and “The Suburbs,” the album reintroduces Ruel at his most reflective yet. Across its songs, Ruel unpacks the highs and lows of love, heartbreak, healing, and self-discovery—ultimately crafting a coming-of-age project that translates the defining years of his life into unflinching storytelling.
“With the lack of restrictions I gave myself, I still feel like I had the clearest vision I’ve ever had going into making a project,” Ruel shares. “There was a lot of certainty on how I wanted it to be perceived, the kind of artist I want to be perceived as, and the things I wanted to say.”
Earlier this week, Ruel released the official music video for “Wild Guess,” co-starring actor and comedian Mary Beth Barone (Overcompensating) and directed by Jackie Zhou (Chappell Roan “Hot To Go!”). Set in the Wild West, the tongue-in-cheek visual finds Barone playing Ruel’s ex as the pair reunite on set as co-stars—two former lovers forced to navigate unresolved tension under the spotlight. Between biting banter, on-camera chaos, and sharp comedic timing, the duo turns the concept into a rom-com gone hilariously wrong.
“I was so excited to play the ex love interest of a 22-year-old in a music video,” Barone jokes. “It’s an honor to be thought of in that way as a woman in my 30s. I think it’s a step forward for storytelling and culture in general. The song being about a breakup—it just felt right. My heart goes out to anyone who has to work with their ex, especially on set. Ruel is a total professional and very kind, so maybe the youth really will save us.”
Expanding on the warmth of his recent releases, Kicking My Feet leans into organic, folk-inspired textures while staying rooted in pop. “Wild Guess” contemplates the slow unraveling of love with quiet acceptance, “I Can Die Now” revels in euphoric devotion, and “The Suburbs” alongside “No News Is Good News” reflect on nostalgia and uncertainty. The record closes with “dst (outro),” a serene moment of peace and self-realization. Blending honest lyricism with his signature soulful tone, Ruel delivers a project that lingers—both emotionally and sonically.
To shape the sound of Kicking My Feet, Ruel collaborated with an all-star team of producers including Julian Bunetta (Sabrina Carpenter, One Direction), Kenny Beats (Dominic Fike, Ed Sheeran), Dan Wilson (Adele, Taylor Swift, Chris Stapleton), Taka Perry (KATSEYE), and longtime collaborator M-Phazes (Eminem, Kehlani, Ruel’s debut album).
Continuing his global rise, Ruel was also recently announced as part of Lollapalooza’s South American lineup for March 2026, with performances set for Argentina, Chile, Brazil, and Colombia.
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