FIRST UP WITH RBCXMUSIC FEATURES BLACK CANADIAN TALENT
Benja is a Toronto-based singer, songwriter, and producer. He combines the sound and undeniable energy of bedroom pop with R&B’s soulful flare and jazz influences. Benja is drawn to fashion and he even draws inspiration for his music from it. His latest EP Ivy features six songs that are perfect for the summer with their groovy vibe.
Care to introduce yourself to our readers?
Hi! My name is Benja, and I’m an indie artist from Toronto.
Tell us a bit about your most recent release.
My most recent release was my first-ever EP called “Ivy” which came out in April. It’s a little collection of songs and stories about my family, relationships, growing up, and not taking yourself too seriously.
Where do you tend to pull inspiration from when writing?
More practically speaking, I always start with a guitar riff or guitar chords. Guitar is my most natural way to process and express the things that I feel, so I’ll usually just be noodling, and then a song will form from that – but I draw inspiration from everything in my life! How I felt when reading a book, certain scenes in movies, fashion runway shows, something my friend said in passing, or even the way my brother talks about gardening.
Do you have any upcoming shows you’d like to tell us about?
I don’t for myself have any at the moment, I am in writing and recording mode. But I am going on tour in Europe in Jonah Yano’s band in November! I am super excited for that.
Congratulations on being a Featured Artist in the First Up with RBCxMusic program! Can you tell us a little bit about the program?
Thank you! It’s such an awesome program that offers mentorship, guidance, community, and cool performance opportunities to up-and-coming artists. Most importantly, the people who make up the program are so kind, caring, and amazing.
What are some benefits you’ve taken advantage of through the program?
One of my favourite things is meeting the other artists in the program! I’ve done writing sessions, planned shows, hung out, and genuinely made friends through the program and I think that is one of the most beautiful things about it.
What’s your goal for 2024?
Think less feel more.