Interview with Benton Paul

Super talented solo artist Benton Paul has already released his first album and toured the country. I had the chance to see Benton at the Boston House of Blues back in 2009, and though that was my first time being introduced to his music, I have to say I became a fan after that night. Now as he works on his second album, I've been able to ask Benton about his music, songwriting and how he got his start at such a young age.


You’re working on your second album, what can fans look forward to on this album?
The new album will be more artsy and upbeat than the last.

Do you prefer live or recording? 
I prefer performing live and listening to recordings.

Where do you find the inspiration for your songs?
Great question, every month seems different! Some months are harder to find inspiration than others. I look to books, movies and other music a lot though.

What came first for you, singing, songwriting or playing an instrument?
Probably dancing! haha I used to dance around to Michael Jackson and Milli Vanilli when I was super young. Then took piano at 5, and started singing in public at 6!

You often play the guitar and piano, is there any other instrument you’ve ever wanted to play?
Yes, I always wanted to play the drums... but my mom said they were too loud... I'm still in awe when I see a great drummer.

Do you have any pre-show or backstage rituals?
Haha, a lot of the time we just make up some silly sentence and yell it from within the huddle; but more importantly, a prayer either out loud or in the heart is key to a long term career.

Benton performing at Boston
House of Blues in 2009.

 What place would you like to go to on tour that you haven’t been
 to/toured yet?
 Europe!

 If you could perform with anyone, living or non-living, who 
 would  you choose?
 The Beatles :) Cliche, but hey.

 What’s been the biggest moment in your life so far?
 I remember my first time playing a stadium stage to a sold out crowd, it
 was unreal, and one of the best feelings to have that much support as you
 sing.



Besides the new album, what else is coming up for you?
With a new album comes new merch, new tour dates and new videos!

Do you have a message to all of your fans? 
Yes, I couldn't be doing what I do without your love and support, thank you so much from the bottom of my heart!


Thanks Benton for the interview, and I can't wait for the new album! 

Interview with singer-songwriter Jared Lee

Breaking out into the music world, just releasing his debut EP Falling Through Holes, is singer-songwriter Jared Lee. I've had the chance to interview Jared and talk to him about his new EP, his music style and how he's going from singing in studios to singing in front of live audiences.


1. Which one do you like better, singing or songwriting? 
I like them both for different reasons. There is nothing like performing on stage for people and affecting them with your music. At the same time, creating a new song and melody that no one has ever heard before is quite exhilarating. I plan to do both as long I live.

2. When did you write your first song?
I think I was about 16 at my house on our piano in Boston.

3. What inspires you to write a song?
Combination of things.... sometimes its a personal experience, sometimes its something a friend of mine my go through. Sometimes its a catch phrase or a particular emotion I feel thats brought on by something I see.
Recently I've been really inspired by the dedication of some of my fans out there who have been working hard to helping spread my music.

4. You just released your new EP Falling Through Holes, what’s that been like?
Incredibly exciting. I've been working on this batch of songs for awhile and I'm very proud that this is my first release. I hope people enjoy listening to the music as much as I did making it.

5. How would you describe your music style?
I think my vocal style has a bit more soul/R&B influence but my songs are pop songs. I aim for big melodies that I hope will play over in your head again and again.

6. How would you want people to feel when they listen to your music?
The emotions and passion I try to communicate in the song. I hope many find it therapeutic.

7. What’s the weirdest place a song idea has come to you?
Tough one ha... my mind wanders a lot so probably while I'm in the middle of a conversation or playing a sport... something where I'm supposed to be focused on the task at hand and I'm clearly not.

8. Who are your musical influences?
Growing up I worshipped Brian McKnight, Boyz II Men, Sting... even today I really look up to artists like Pink, Alicia Keys, Gavin DeGraw. Love the power and passion in their expressive voices.

9. How has life changed in the last year?
I'm now shifting gears to finally having a product out so I'm starting to perform a lot more as opposed to just working in studios. I love traveling to new cities, meeting new people and exposing them to my music. Performing is truly a drug.

10. Besides singing and songwriting, what do you like to do in your spare time?
Love to stay active, exercise, go hang by the beach, go out to eat at great restaurants. Nothing too crazy.

11. What are your plans for the future?
I have a lot more music in store for people and I'm really looking forward to hitting the road and performing all around the world.

12. Do you have a message to all of your supporters?
You make all the hard work and sacrifice worth it and I can't wait to grow with you and create more music for you all!


Now that you know a little more about Jared Lee, I think you better go buy his new EP Falling Through Holes, trust me, you won't regret it. Big thanks to Jared for taking the time to do this interview, and I can't wait to hear more from him.