PRINCETON, NJ – From 10-year-old songwriter to studio manager, Ben James’ journey to the recording business is as long as it is diverse. He began mixing in his bedroom with the help of his brother, who inspired his hip-hop tastes and introduced him to the tools that would kickstart a multi-faceted musical career. Today he’s become one of the hottest new emerging artists from New Jersey, working alongside major artists like Drumma Boy and Irv Whitlow (MKG’s manager). He also toured with Juicy J, Chris Brown, Big Sean, School Boy W, Big Krit, T.I., E-40, Tech n9ne and many more. And his latest single, “Grade A,” is the perfect kind of flex song to show off his truly natural talent as an artist.
Currently available across all streaming platforms, “Grade A” is a chill vibe with melodic elements that shows off his signature style in powerful ways. His sound is sometimes hard to describe, but it definitely has its own vibe. Diversity has definitely entered into his music and brand, and at the end of the day he knows that his songs will be the kind of singles that leave people awestruck.
“I want to create something people can relate to or be like, ‘Damn! Who is this kid?!” he said. “I feel like my background is interesting. I come from the area around Princeton – an area that was very ‘preppy. Coming out as a white rapper in a mainly suburban area – where kids’ parents were lawyers and doctors and stuff – made it hard for my hometown to accept this as my reality or take it as seriously as I did. But where I grew up there were also a lot of black kids and Hispanics. All those cultures influenced me. I learned different things from different people over the years, and that helps me write great music.”
James’ commitment to making a name for himself in the music industry began turning heads as soon as he made his way into the studio. He credits Swaggalee Scott as his main mentor and the person who set him on the path of success that he enjoys today. It wasn’t long before James’ skills took off and he developed his own edgy and relatable style. He’s become known as a vocalist, writer, engineer, manager, and AR&. And when he’s not supporting live shows or securing distribution deals for emerging artists, he’s recording in his own studio.
“I want my music to be known for its originality and for being a voice for people who may be going through the same things I did,” he said. “Irv Whitlow said that my ‘Work ethic is something special,’ and I want to show the world just how true that is.”
In addition to “Grade A,” James has also released the single “Open The Door,” which is a follow-up to “Grade A” that is not out yet but which is one of many he plans to release this year. To listen to his music, or to follow him on social media, please visit the following links:
Twitter.com/benjamesreal
tiktok @benjamesreal1 - 990k+
Instagram @Benjamesreal
snapchat @benjamesmusic
facebook.com/benjamesreal
