Benjamin Arce Press Kit
BIO
Born of English and Peruvian heritage, Benjamin Arce translates his experiences through rich soulful melodies, warm colorful textures and diverse rhythms. With an uncompromising attitude towards his creative approach and influences that range from J Dilla to Ray Barretto, Benjamin is a singer/songwriter/producer who blurs the lines between genres, blending and transcending Salsa, Hip Hop, Jazz and Soul to form a magnetic sound that stands out above the rest.
Influenced heavily by his experiences living in Peru, a country then ravaged by political corruption and terrorism, Benjamin began writing poetry at the age of 12 to express the frustrations of being caught between two worlds. Growing up in a household where music was religion and Salsa greats like Ruben Blades and Hector Lavoe, Soul legends like Stevie, Donny and Marvin, and Pop Icons like Michael Jackson played mass daily, it was only natural that Benjamin would mix his talent for words with his passion for music.
By the age of 18 he had shared the stage with Slam Poets like Saul Williams (Amethyst Rockstar, Slam), Malcom Jamal-Warner and Shane Koyzan (2000 Slam Poetry Champion). Evolving from poet to MC, Benjamin kept his ability to sing in the background as he explored new ground creatively. It was during this time he formed the critically acclaimed 5 piece live Hip Hop fusion band ”The Front”. Touring both the West Coast and East Coast proved to be an eye-opening experience, building his confidence and beginning his preparation for the future.
After 3 years spent recording and touring with “The Front” the group disbanded in 2005. It was then that Benjamin walked away from the industry to gain a better perspective, only to quickly find himself playing the piano on countless nights, learning the art of composition while waiting for sunrise.
Now, with 4 years of reinvention behind him, Benjamin Arce returns with Underground Soul, a free digital promotional album that is a raw, yet smooth and passionate depiction of the precious moment before the curtain rises. With songs like Inside ur Soul, God Blessed You, In Los Angeles and Confused collectively gaining over 10,000 downloads and rotation on Swurv Internet Radio, XM and Sirius Radio, Underground Soul is opening doors internationally and building well-deserved momentum for this world class artist.
From the first song to the last, Benjamin’s live show is proof positive that this young, captivating artist was born to sing the story and bring the message of the world whose soundtrack he provides.
For booking and general inquiries:
Amaru Williams
jslbookings@gmail.com
