Nathaniel Joseph Ruess is a celebrated American singer and songwriter whose career has spanned multiple successful musical endeavors. He first gained recognition as the frontman of the indie pop band The Format, which he co-founded in 2002. The band released their debut album, “Interventions + Lullabies,” in 2003, garnering local acclaim and establishing a dedicated fanbase. Despite facing challenges, including being dropped from their label, The Format continued to thrive, ultimately releasing their second album, “Dog Problems,” in 2006 through their own label, The Vanity Label.
In 2008, Ruess transitioned to form the band fun., collaborating with Jack Antonoff and Andrew Dost. Their breakthrough came with the album “Some Nights,” featuring the chart-topping single “We Are Young,” which won a Grammy Award for Song of the Year. The album’s success solidified fun. as a major force in the music industry, selling nearly three million copies worldwide and earning them accolades, including Best New Artist at the Grammys.
As a solo artist, Ruess made waves with his debut album, “Grand Romantic,” released in 2015. The lead single, “Nothing Without Love,” marked his first entry on the Billboard Hot 100 as a solo artist. His collaborations with renowned artists like P!nk on “Just Give Me a Reason” showcased his versatility and songwriting prowess, earning him critical acclaim and commercial success.
Beyond performing, Ruess has made significant contributions as a songwriter, collaborating with artists such as Kesha, Halsey, and Keith Urban. His work has not only enriched the music landscape but also earned him prestigious awards, including the Hal David Starlight Award. With a dynamic career that continues to evolve, Ruess remains a prominent figure in contemporary music.