Uploaded July 2026 | Updated September 2026, 2 weeks ago

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Album: This Thing Called Life [SINGLE]
Track: 1 of 1
Title: This Thing Called Life (Radio Edit)
Artist: Ruby Wood (feat. Illa J & Abstract Orchestra)
Label: First Word Records
Cat#: FW375
Formats: Digital
Digital Release: 1st July 2026

About This Release:

First Word Records are proud to bring you ‘This Thing Called Life’ - the second single from Ruby Wood’s forthcoming sophomore EP; this track featuring Illa J and Abstract Orchestra.

This is an uptempo piece of hip hop soul positivity, incorporating r&b sumptuousness, catchy pop hooks, gospel-esque choirs and dope raps, ensuring it’s one set to become a future classic.

Exquisite production & huge accompaniment comes courtesy of Abstract Orchestra, a Leeds-based supergroup led by Rob Mitchell, who produces the majority of Ruby’s new EP (this one based on an original beat from a new producer named Impack). The individual band members have worked with numerous luminaries of the music world, from Adele to Amy Winehouse, and released five studio albums - primarily tributes to two hip hop greats; MF DOOM & J Dilla.

This leads to the featured vocalist, Detroit’s Illa J aka John Yancey - brother of the late James Yancey, best known as J Dilla. John Yancey is a phenomenal artist in his own right. A multi-instrumentalist as well as an MC, he’s had releases on Delicious Vinyl, Stones Throw, Bastard Jazz & BBE Records, as well as being a member of Yancey Boys & Slum Village, and collaborating with the likes of Black Milk & Common.

Ruby explains that the theme of this track is “a reflection on shared humanity. The song focuses on connection over division, reminding us that regardless of background or circumstance, we are all partaking in the same fragile experience.”

For those that don’t know, Ruby is a singer / songwriter hailing from Huddersfield, West Yorkshire in the UK. Her soulful yet distinctive voice has enabled her to front numerous projects over the years; perhaps best known as lead vocalist of the critically acclaimed Submotion Orchestra, since 2009.

She’s also performed live shows with UK pioneers Nightmares on Wax and r&b legend Bryson Tiller at his sell-out UK gigs, as well as touring with Bonobo & Nubiyan Twist, and collaborating with the likes of Krept & Konan, Alfa Mist, GLXY and Roska, to name a few.

Her first solo EP ‘Sincerely’ dropped back in 2023, and received love from the likes of Jamie Cullum, Craig Charles, Jyoty, Huey Morgan, Wordplay & saw Ruby named Mi-Soul Radio's 'One to Watch'.

The follow-up EP ‘No Rain, No Flowers’ is a personal tale of growth through adversity. Reflecting on long-term love, fleeting intimacy, grief, and the relationships that shape us. The title speaks to the belief that difficult experiences are not separate from growth, but essential to it.

Musically, the project encompasses contemporary flavours within the realms of r&b, soul and hip hop. Additionally to the features on this single, it includes an impressive collective of collaboraters, including Devin Tracy, Abnormal Sleepz & PRIDO who each bring their own distinct perspective, whilst complimenting the EP’s introspective tone; favouring warmth, restraint & lyrical authenticity.

‘This Thing Called Life’ is available on all digital platforms from Weds July 1st, with the EP ‘No Rain, No Flowers’ following on vinyl & DSPs Friday July 24th.