Benjamin found the courage to be weird
Benjamin’s artistic career began in a rather unusual way. When his first single, Underdogs, was released in 2014, he was already familiar to many Finns.
“I had come to people’s attention through social media, and the content I posted there was not related to music in any way,” Benjamin recalls.
People were quick to label him a celebrity who had landed a record deal on non-musical merits.
“They didn’t see me as a serious artist, but as a social media star.”
In fact, Benjamin had been writing and making music and performing long before his first release. Nevertheless, people’s attitudes were close to extending to the artist himself.
“I caught myself questioning my own merits, even though I knew the truth was different,” Benjamin admits.
At the time, the biggest dream of the artist, who was still making music in English, was to be Finland’s own Justin Bieber. Top professionals worked hard to make this dream come true. Still, something always seemed to be missing.
Benjamin found his own voice through writing
The decline of his English-language career forced Benjamin to confront himself.
“I was lost and didn’t know who I really was as an artist.”
He set out to find himself by writing and challenging himself.
“I haven’t been a natural talent as a musician or singer, but I’ve had an insatiable desire to learn. When you have to figure out ways to succeed on your own, the end result is bound to be unique.”
His own style eventually began to take shape. However, it required a tremendous amount of work, challenging herself, and also enduring difficult emotions.
“Trying new things felt really awkward at first. Fortunately, I had people around me who gave me permission to be a little weird—and saw it as a good thing.”
In the end, it was worth taking the plunge, because it was only by letting go of my own preconceptions that I was able to discover the core of my artistry.
Finding my own style has also had an outward impact and won over the audience.
“It feels good to prove people’s preconceptions wrong.”
A twinkle in the eye and just the right amount of weirdness
Today, Benjamin’s music is not too serious. According to the artist himself, it has a bold attitude, a twinkle in the eye, and even a hint of redneck charm.
“I love it when people ask me if I really said that,” Benjamin laughs.
If someone had told him ten years ago what kind of music he would be making now, his reaction would probably have been one of horror.
“I always thought I wanted to be cool and mysterious – but the fact is, I’m the opposite of all that. Maybe that’s what makes me cool.”
Benjamin: “It is important that creators receive compensation and recognition for their work.”
Benjamin is currently working on a new album, which has taken a tremendous amount of work.
“I demand a lot from myself and want the songs to have a good vibe. I’ve written hundreds of songs, but now it’s rewarding to focus on finishing things. It feels important to bring things to completion so that I can start something new again.”
His dreams are clear:
“I love live gigs and how people dance and surrender to the music. I hope I can call this my job for as long as my love for making music lasts – and retire as one of Finland’s biggest stars, through the Stadion.”
He is grateful that music has become a profession that allows him to earn a living. Copyright royalties also play a significant role in his income.
“I am extremely careful to ensure that all reports are submitted correctly. It is important that all the people involved in the songs receive compensation and recognition for their work.”
Although music is Benjamin’s job, it sometimes also offers him an escape from everyday life to different worlds.
“I love listening to jazz in the car or being inspired by movies where music also plays an important role in creating the mood. Music gives me a sense of security and makes me feel that life is wonderful.”
