Amid the electric energy of Lollapalooza, Sydney-born singer-songwriter Ruel is prepping to take the stage for his first ever performance at the festival. With a repertoire that includes standout tracks like “Don’t Tell Me,” “Younger,” and “Painkiller,” Ruel’s rise from a teenage prodigy to an international star has been nothing short of extraordinary. With over 3 billion streams worldwide, multiple platinum records, and a trail of sold-out tours, Ruel’s global fanbase only continues to grow.

While running around backstage at Lollapalooza, Ruel takes 1883 behind the scenes of what exactly happens right before he steps on stage.

Ruel’s new EP Adaptations is out now. Follow Ruel at @oneruel.

Photography Michelle Grace Hunder