Yard Sessions — Sundowner Session with Rue

Join us in the Residence One Gardens for our next Yard Session.

Rue is a rising force in the UK music scene - a gifted songwriter, vocalist, and guitarist whose soulful voice and rhythmic guitar playing are laced with a rich jazz sensibility. Dubbed “a future star” by Dart Music Festival, she continues to captivate audiences with her unique sound and magnetic stage presence.

2024 saw Rue take a bold leap forward with the release of two compelling new singles, each paired with cinematic music videos that marked her on-screen debut. Both tracks received glowing support from BBC Introducing and landed spots on Spotify playlists including Jazz UK and Fresh Finds. Her latest single, On The Fence, earned a feature on BBC Radio 3’s Round Midnight with Soweto Kinch.

Taking inspiration from artists like Hiatus Kaiyote, Maddison Cunningham, Kimbra, and Jamiroquai, Rue has carved out her own space with headline performances at standout venues such as the Cheltenham Festival Jazz Arena, Bristol’s Gallimaufry, St Ives Jazz Club, and London’s Pizza Express Jazz Club. She’s also made her mark on the festival circuit, with appearances at The Great Escape, Boardmasters, and Leopallooza, cementing her reputation as one of the south-west’s most exciting live acts - whether solo or with her band.

This year, she opened for soul legend Gabrielle at the Sidmouth International Jazz & Blues Festival, and has shared the stage with acclaimed artists including afro-jazz collective Nubiyan Twist, Yakul, Martha Reeves & the Vandellas, and Keane. With national radio and TV appearances, a collaboration with Sennheiser, and backing from Jazz FM, Rue is quickly emerging as one of the most compelling new voices in contemporary jazz and soul.

During this summer’s Yard Sessions, visitors can sink into Royal William Yard deckchairs and relax on picnic blankets - or bring their own and get cosy. There will be a licensed bar within the Secret Garden, run by the Yard's very own independent wine bar, Le Vignoble, ensuring a range of refreshments to complement the musical line-up.

With its unique walled garden setting, incredible sound and that unbeatable seaside atmosphere, Yard Sessions 2025 promises to be a sought-after musical experience. Make an evening of it and explore Royal William Yard's bars and eateries, or simply sit back, relax, and let the music play as the sun sets in this scenic setting.