Ben Kessler photographed by Chase Denton
1. At what age did you realize that music was your passion?
“I started playing guitar when I was around 7 - I think I knew pretty early that it was something I loved more than anything else”.
2. When did you really start pursuing music with laser focus?
“I recorded two EPs for fun when I was a freshman in high school - I was a bit upset when no one listened to them so I started playing open mics around Philly. Within a year I had played my first headlining show and just kept playing live as much as possible. I started taking my writing and production more seriously when I moved to Nashville for college in 2016”.
3. What advice would you give those who get stuck on this journey?
“Create with blinders on and figure out what success means to you! There are 1000 paths to building a sustainable music career and 1000 people who think they know the right one - I think there is space for everyone and you are the only one who knows how to create music in a way that fulfills you. So follow your gut”.
Ben Kessler photographed by Chase Denton
4. What’s your favorite song that you’ve made?
“April!”
5. If you could thank 2 people right now who would it be and why?
“My parents! They are so supportive and really make an effort to understand how this whole industry works”.
6. What artist did you listen to most growing up?
“John Mayer”.
Ben Kessler photographed by Chase Denton
7. What has been your most memorable moment on this journey?
“I think hearing "False Art" on the radio for the first time was a special moment”.
8. Who do you see yourself collaborating with next?
“Lizzy McAlpine and I have a song coming out on her album in April :)”.