Nate Ruess singing into a microphone on stage, wearing an earpiece and a dark patterned shirt in a black and white photo.

Image credits: Wikimedia Commons

Nate Ruess

Born

February 26, 1982

Died
Birthplace

Iowa City, Iowa, US

Age

44 Years Old

Horoscope

Pisces

Who Is Nate Ruess?

Nathaniel Joseph Ruess is an American singer and songwriter, known for his emotive vocals and work across indie pop and alternative rock. He initially gained recognition as the frontman for the indie rock band The Format, then achieved widespread fame with fun.

His breakout moment arrived in 2012 with fun.’s album Some Nights, which featured the chart-topping single “We Are Young.” This success earned the band multiple Grammy Awards, solidifying his presence in popular music.

Full NameNathaniel Joseph Ruess
GenderMale
Height5 feet 8 inches (173 cm)
Relationship StatusPartnered with Charlotte Ronson
Net Worth$10 million
NationalityAmerican
EthnicityWhite
EducationDeer Valley High School
FatherLarry Ruess
MotherBess Zinger
SiblingsElizabeth Ruess
KidsTwo children

Early Life and Education

Nate Ruess was born in Iowa City, Iowa, and later moved to Glendale, Arizona, as a child due to recurring bouts of pneumonia. His uncle, Broadway performer John Ruess, served as an early musical inspiration for him.

He attended Deer Valley High School, graduating in 2000, and subsequently pursued a music career, playing in punk bands before his professional breakthrough.

Notable Relationships

Nate Ruess is partnered with British fashion designer Charlotte Ronson, with whom he shares two children. He maintains a private family life.

Earlier in his career, Ruess was also publicly linked to fashion designer Rachel Antonoff and, briefly, to singer Ellie Goulding.

Career Highlights

Nate Ruess led the band fun. to immense global success with their 2012 album Some Nights, which included the Grammy Award-winning single “We Are Young.” This album produced multiple hit songs, cementing the band’s status.

He launched a solo career with the album Grand Romantic and was honored with the prestigious Hal David Starlight Award for his significant impact as a songwriter.

Ruess has also contributed songwriting to tracks for artists such as Kesha, Zedd, and P!nk, further demonstrating his versatile talent.

Signature Quote

“If you can make the song a soundtrack to what you’re living at the time, I think that’s the most important part of a song.”