Over half a decade into her career, Niko Rubio’s debut album is finally on the horizon. The rising Mexican-Salvadoran star has spent the past few years blending the alternative edge of her Los Angeles upbringing with her Latina heritage. Rubio’s album, late night swim, arrives on Oct. 30 and will expand her sound with even more global influences.
“I feel ready to finally release my first album,” Rubio tells Rolling Stone. “It’s been about six years since my first release and I’ve explored so much of myself over that time. I finally feel like I know who I am right now.”
Rubio has made a name for herself both as a singer and songwriter. She has penned songs for the likes Gwen Stefani, Suki Waterhouse, and the Warning. Rubio has also made a splash with the first singles from late night swim, including the otherworldly “kitty” and her recent viral hit “tokyo.” On social media, the latter song has received love from Waterhouse, Joe Jonas, Reneé Rapp, Vince Staples, and Barry Can’t Swim.
Rubio also announced that her next single “dream” will be released on Friday, Sept. 25. For late night swim, she regrouped with her longtime collaborators Lester Mendez, who is known for his work with Shakira, Santana, and Austin Ward. Rubio also tapped creatives Wyatt Bernard, who was the executive producer of Slayyyter’s Worst Girl in America, Austin Corona, Rodiah, Zacari, Olivia Bond, and Lennon Kloser for the upcoming album. In addition to indulging in her L.A. roots, the LP will also explore the sounds of London and Jamaica. “The inspiration for ‘late night swim’ was heartbreak, dealing with a breakup, and also self-discovery through loss,” Rubio says.
“I want people to feel a sense of escapism and nostalgia and hopefully find a release for hidden emotions through listening to my album,” Rubio adds. “The more vulnerable I can be, the easier it is for me to get through those feelings honestly. This album is set at a late-night pool party where you see the love of your life with someone else. The decisions you make after that are always questionable. It’s honest and vulnerable.”
