Wings caught up with Ben Somewhere, a Charleston, SC songwriter, while he attended our Wings Weekly: Van Session segment. Ben spoke about music, his roots and aspirations as well as his views of Buddhism and a spiritual outlook on life. He is involved with hosting open mic nights around town, as well as music festivals to help benefit local animal shelters. His music is described as Folk, Americana with a driving blues feel. Catch him around the lowcountry playing solo as Ben Somewhere or with his band, The Side Hustle.
Wings Weekly asked Ben seven questions:
1. Why Music? BS: Music ended up being the one art form I’ve practiced my entire life. I’ve done a bit of visual art, but the instant gratification of producing sound has always been appealing to me. It’s both intangible, yet physical, and the direct communication between the performer and the audience creates a connection I really enjoy. It used to be my therapy but eventually became a compassionate act where I can contribute directly to other’s happiness.
2. What is Profit? BS: Profit is my father-in-law’s surname and I hope someday he’ll adopt me, so I can start calling myself Ben E. Profit. Then every single venue in town won’t be able to resist hiring me because they all love Profit.
3. Which do you prefer; birds or lizards? BS: Birds are basically lizards with wings, and I prefer cats.
4. Which do you prefer; live music or prerecorded music? BS: Live music due to the energy and presence that prerecorded music can’t replicate even under the best conditions. Even live albums can’t capture the feeling of being in the room with the artist.
5. Which do you prefer; breakfast, lunch, or dinner? BS: I’m a fan of a lunch. Lunch ideally should be the largest meal of the day consisting of a short nap thereafter. This rarely happens in my life and I think I’ve been led astray.
6. What makes you stop in your tracks? (Musically speaking) BS: Are we talking struggles or something that just holds my attention? As far as struggles it’d be when I let my daily life drag me down and forget to prioritize my music. Living properly and having balance inevitably lead to inspiration, energy, and productivity. The things that really give me pause in music are usually a well-crafted lyric, an original melody, or a unique voice.
7. If every ear would hear your song, about what would you sing? BS: If I could get everyone to listen, I’d sing the same songs I’m singing now. I’d shine a light on the inherent goodness of humanity and the ability everyone possesses to transform themselves and their environments. I’d talk about believing in yourself and achieving victory in all endeavors and not allowing obstacles to stop you in your tracks. I’d remind everyone to have fun in their lives and enjoy themselves, but never at the expense of others. Finally, I’d mention practicing Buddhism with the SGI, and the awesome things I’ve experienced in the past couple of years!
Wings Weekly wants to thank Ben Somewhere for his time and suggest that anyone who enjoys a fun music act check out Ben Somewhere at the links below!
https://www.facebook.com/sidehustle843/
https://www.facebook.com/northchuckfolk
https://www.thesidehustle843
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