Ruel Has Us All ‘Kicking Our Feet’ After His House of Blues Show
Written by Samantha Firmin | March 12, 2026
Ruel, a singer-songwriter hailing from Australia, may only be 23, but there’s a reason he’s been touring since age 14. Just last month, he kicked off his eighth headlining tour in support of his latest release, Kicking My Feet, making his second stop at the iconic House of Blues Dallas. With experience far beyond his years, Ruel crafted a memorable experience from beginning to end.
Photos by Samantha Firmin
Fans of all ages filled the double-story venue, escaping the crisp winter chill from outside. Inside, the stage glowed with warm hues emitted from a red door placed center stage. A unique stage design, to say the least, but one that gave way to the perfect theatrical entrance. As the lights dimmed and fog filled the stage, Ruel stepped out, his silhouette surrounded by blinding white lights, as if he were arriving from another world entirely.
Photos by Samantha Firmin
He opened the show with, “Only Ever,” the same track that begins his album. His 6’ 6” figure is practically impossible to miss, allowing even those at the back of the venue to follow along as he grooved around the stage to, “Not What’s Going On.” By the third song, everyone was on their feet as he played, “Dazed and Confused,” one of his earlier tracks that skyrocketed his fame.
Brief moments when the music stopped were replaced by barking from the audience. In a lighthearted manner, Ruel replied, “I don’t know if this is the kind of vibe I want to give off, but I’ll take it as a compliment.” Having grown up in the public eye with songs centered on themes of love, longing, and heartbreak, it’s no surprise that the singer has garnered a fair share of fans who’ve fallen for his charm.
Despite being a young heartthrob, Ruel made sure to display the talent that put him on the map. Mid-set his accompaniments took a step back while he performed a few tracks on acoustic guitar and piano. This included, “Even Angels Won’t,” which he expressed was, “one of my favorite songs I’ve written,” as well as a cover of Mike Reid’s, “I Can’t Make You Love Me,” which showcased his emotive and soulful vocals.
The latter half of his set satisfied old and new fans alike with recent hits such as, “The Suburbs” and older highlights like, “GROWING UP IS ____” and “Painkiller.” Finally, no concert is complete without an encore (and no Texas concert is complete without a cowboy hat). Ruel quickly returned to stage, donning a fancy one he had been gifted during soundcheck. The encore was his chance to really connect with the crowd, kneeling down to belt out, “Japanese Whiskey” before concluding the night with the title track, “Kicking My Feet.”
Photos by Samantha Firmin
Ruel made his exit through the same door, pulling it shut behind him, just as the moments from that night would remain sealed in the memories of everyone in the room. Having spent nearly half his life on the road and on stage, Ruel has refined his artistry to an impressive level. If this performance was any indication, it will be exciting to see how his music and stage presence continue to evolve alongside him.
