We are now at week 12 of our “Featured Artist Of The Week” series. We are providing a platform for these artists to share whatever it is they would like with their fans. This week we decided to reach out to Benjamin Bill. Hit the break and check out what he had to say. Interested in being featured next? Email us: newclevelandmusic216@yahoo.com.
1. I have many hobbies that's for sure. Other than writing and recording music, you can find me in the gym, at the nearest house party with a red solo cup in hand, kicking it with my crew, listening to the latest and oldest music, chilling with the family, or catching a Cleveland sports event. I'm an avid Cleveland sports fan till the day I die! No flip flopping over here. I also enjoy educating the youth. Whether it be in the classroom or out on the streets, it's something I'm inspired to do and am passionate about.
2. My greatest influence is Notorious B.I.G. hands down! I was a child when he passed away, but if it wasn't for MTV Jams, playing "Big Poppa", I might not have gotten hip to Rap/Hip Hop music till years later. His rhyme schemes, delivery, patterns, and story telling was epic. The whole G-Unit movement in the early and mid 2000's caught my ear, especially Lloyd Banks. I like metaphors and punchlines in my rap music. Hence Fabolous being another influence growing up. Other influences include Jay-Z, BlackStarr, Tupac, Nas, Eminem, and my pops. If it wasn't for my pops getting me involved in music at a young age, none of this would be possible.
3. There are so many great artists out there! If I could make one track with any group of artists, I'd get production from Dr. Dre, co-produced by Kiid Planet, with Carlos Santana on the guitar and Travis Barker providing the drum kit. I would have to dial up The Weeknd for the hook, my favorite rapper of all-time HOVA on a verse along with Kendrick Lamar.
I love working with local talent. As far as Cleveland artists, I'd have to go with a King Chip and Cudi collab. Definitely rocking with their Rebel Castle movement! On my upcoming project you'll see that I have features from Ray Jr., ZuP, TKO, B.B.M.A, and Cristo Jeanette. I would also like to work with Ref and Shuicide Holla someday. I rock with their music too.
4. This summer I'll be dropping my first independent album entitled Moonlight Cruise. In the next month or so I'll be dropping new music every 'Moonlight Cruise Monday' leading up to the official album drop! It's going to be a hot project you can find on iTunes. It's a mix of mainstream music with some street records! I'm very excited about it. I definitely plan on being a recognizable name around the whole city after this drops. I just want to thank ImFromCleveland.com for the opportunity to allow me to get heard throughout the years. S/O to all my friends, family, supporters, and fans that have stuck by me through my career. Big ups to my crew Adge, Lil Yerk, Danny-O, Shelly B, Moe, Rae Smitty, Jo, and K-$Dub! Also check out my boy Don Russo's brand new clothing line 'Villain Syndicate'. I'll be one of his sponsors. -It's On!
Twitter: @Benjamin_Bill