"Doesn't Mean I'm Gonna Treat Ya like Royalty" With Ruby Jay
Our cover story features teen sensation Ruby Jay, who currently she plays Holly in the Hulu television series Holly Hobbie. The story is an exclusive interview with the singer/actress. Styling her was a pleasure, she really likes clothes and was open to trying everything on: I didn’t get turned down once. The title of this story is from her most recent single Royalty, and Ruby talks about the meaning of this song and how people need to be treated nicely. I felt that I wanted the cover to resemble the feeling of her latest single, Royalty, and I styled her as Queen from centuries ago, most notably known, Queen Elizabeth.
Ruby Jay: Royalty
Alison Hernon, Editor-In-Chief, PhotoBook Magazine
1. Name?
My name is Ruby Jay.
2. Profession?
I am an actress and singer/songwriter.
3. Where are you from?
I am from Los Angeles.
4. How did you get involved in acting and music?
With music I just started to post little 30 second clips of me singing online and then gradually moved into covers and now original music! When it comes to acting, I actually got into the industry by accident! We posted a video of me singing online and my manager reached out and asked if I was interested in acting, and then BAM!
5. Tell us about the new Holly Hobbie series. What drew you to the role?
Holly Hobbie is about a 14 year old singer songwriter who wants to make a change in the world and who used music to speak her mind and make that change. I really love playing this role because of how real and honest she is. She lets the world see her emotions and is always trying to figure new things out.
6. Can you tell us about your character, Holly?
Holly is real, honest, kind, playful, and an amazing friend.
7. What are you most excited for fans to see in the Holly Hobbie series?
I’m most excited for fans to see how Holly broadens her music genres, and plays around with her music taste!
8. Can you tell us about your new single, Royalty?
I am telling those who may get picked on, or those who feel mistreated, they don’t have deal with the cruelty anymore. Just because you’re dealing with a drama queen, doesn’t mean you need to treat them like royalty. In the song I say, ‘you may be a drama queen, doesn’t mean I’m gonna treat ya like royalty.’ The ones who mistreat others and think they are above everything and everyone, need to be put in their place.
9. What actors and musicians inspire you?
Some of my favorite actresses are Emily Blunt, Meryl Streep, and Reese Witherspoon. I love how these actresses can tap into any character they are given, and nail it every time.
9. What’s next for you?
Who knows! Hopefully some more acting opportunities and music.... and one day, Broadway.
10. What is your motto?
Do it with passion, or not at all.
11. Instagram: @iamrubyjay
Crew Credits:
Photography: Ron Contarsy
Model: Ruby Jay
Fashion Editor: Alison Hernon at Agency Gerard Artists
Hair & Makeup: Vassilis Kokkinidis at Ford Artists Using TrishMcEvoy and Shu Uemura the Art of Hair Assistant Fashion Stylist: Sammill Wong
Tearsheets: Wei Liu