Imagine a world where music transcends borders, blending the vibrant rhythms of Goa with the soulful melodies of Australia. This is the world of Reuben De Melo, the Australian singer-songwriter who’s making waves globally while staying deeply rooted in his Goan heritage. But here’s where it gets personal: after nearly six years, Reuben is back in his Goan village, reconnecting with family and recording a music video for his upcoming release—a moment that’s as much about homecoming as it is about artistic evolution.
For Reuben, 2024 was a game-changer. Winning The Voice Australia catapulted him into the international spotlight, but his journey began long before that. Born in Goa and now based in Perth, Reuben’s music is a tapestry of influences—reggae, country, and the eclectic, rebellious spirit of Goan tunes. And this is the part most people miss: his sound isn’t just about genres; it’s about storytelling, resilience, and the universal language of connection.
This week, Chennai gets its first taste of Reuben’s magic with A Night with Reuben De Melo at Radio Room. The setlist? A mix of originals from his latest EP When The Show’s All Over, alongside covers that span folk, acoustic pop, and reggae. Here’s the controversial bit: Reuben doesn’t call it a ‘performance.’ He calls it self-expression. “When you perform, it’s for others,” he explains. “But when you express yourself, you’re vulnerable, open, and it invites a deeper connection.”
Reuben’s journey from mining worker to full-time musician is inspiring, but it’s his humility and passion that truly stand out. Raised on legends like Bob Marley, Johnny Cash, and Goan icons Lorna Cordeiro and Alfred Rose, he credits their music for shaping his identity. “Goan music is like a calypso-jazz fusion,” he says. “It’s about standing up for what’s right and feeling like family.”
His win on The Voice hasn’t just boosted his career—it’s given his original music credibility. “Now, when I tour, people request my songs,” he shares. “It’s a validation of my identity as an artist.”
With global collaborations on the rise—think Ed Sheeran’s Sapphire dominating Indian charts in 2025—Reuben is no stranger to cross-cultural projects. He’s been in talks with Indian musicians like Dhruv Ganekar and Raghav Sachar, and his dream? To collaborate with artists from every nation. “Music is vital,” he says. “It’s about respect—singing in different languages, bridging cultures.”
But here’s the question: In a world where music is increasingly global, how do we preserve the unique essence of local traditions while embracing collaboration? Reuben’s journey suggests it’s possible—but what do you think?
Catch Reuben De Melo live at Radio Room, MRC Nagar, on December 3. RSVP is mandatory. For details, contact 80725 98838.
Published - December 01, 2025 07:28 pm IST
