VI.BE

I started out playing harmonica on street corners 15 years ago. Through the years I learned my trade as a busker, from the Grand Place of Brussels to the streets of Rome, from the beaches of Gran Canaria to the French Quarter of New Orleans.

In 2024 I recorded my third album 'The Other Side Of The Coin' in NYC with Blues Hall Of Famer Hugh Pool. Later that year, I signed with American label Spectra.

More info: https://rubenbertrands.com/

“Ruben Bertrands has created a track list of songs that fuse the classic styles of blues and folk rock with modern rock and psychedelic music to create an album that takes you on a ride through his mind, making you feel heightened emotions as you see and listen to The Other Side Of The Coin.”

— https://skopemag.com/2025/02/11/ruben-bertrands-leads-a-blues-filled-trip-in-the-other-side-of-the-coin

“The Other Side of the Coin proves yet again that Ruben Bertrands’ harmonica playing and deep knowledge of the music create a perfect harmony between blues, country, and jazz.”

— https://chicagonewsjournal.com/ruben-bertrands-the-other-side-of-the-coin-upbeat-blues

“In conclusion, this album stands out due to its compelling combination of rich rock vocals, engaging rhythms, and stellar instrumental solos. It captures the essence of traditional blues and folk, while infusing it with modernity that appeals to a wide audience. Whether you are a long-time fan of these genres or new to them, The Other Side Of The Coin promises an enjoyable listening experience filled with warmth, energy, and emotional depth.”

— https://indiepulsemusic.com/2024/08/12/ruben-bertrands-soulful-journey-through-folk-and-blues/

“The Other Side of the Coin is, simply put, fun to listen to. I was transported back to New Orleans, wandering in and out of live music bars and never being disappointed with that night’s entertainment. In this spirit, Ruben Bertrands and company manage to exude the spontaneity of a jam band all while demonstrating a clear mastery of music theory and technique.”

— https://musicweeknews.com/dance-along-to-the-masterful-melodies-in-ruben-bertrands-the-other-side-of-the-coin/

“The Other Side of the Coin is less about Bertrands skill as a storyteller, or even his musical talent, than it is about his skill at using his band to evoke different aspects of the blues. He focuses on using his band as an instrument, not as a free ride for solo space, and that’s a refreshing take on the blues indeed.”

— https://nashvillemusicguide.com/ruben-bertrands-shows-the-other-side-of-the-blues/

CAREER HIGHLIGHTS

Grand Jury Prize for Best Music at Richmond International Film Festival 2022

Belgian Blues Challenge Finalist 2022

Unsigned Only Finalist 2022

Performer at the Baton Rouge Mardi Gras Festival 2023

Blues Battle Zuidrand Winner 2024

Signed with Spectra Music Group 2024

Grand Jury Prize for Excellence In Music & Performance at Richmond International Film Festival 2024

Live show at Ancienne Belgique - Brussels TUUB 2025

3rd place jury & 2nd place public vote @ Belgian Blues Challenge 2025