Represent Recommends: Who is RJ Benjamin?
In April 2005, yes that’s two years ago, we first heard about RJ Benjamin and decided to do an interview with him. Now two years later his star is finally rising as we hear his groove-filled music all over the radio. We thought it would be interesting to read the interview now:
19 April 2005 – Who is RJ Benjamin?
He’s a white boy from the East side with lots of soul who looks to be our very own Justin Timberlake… He’s released his debut album WHO I AM – if you’re into soulful funk kinda stuff make sure to buy it before it slips off the shelves. Don’t forget who told you first.
We caught up with the man and found out a little inside info:
Where were you born and where did you mostly grow up?
Born and raised in Edenvale.
Where did you go to school and how far did you study?
I went to school at Sandringham High. I studied contempary music for two years at Allenby and got a Diploma and then I studied Jazz for a year at Pretoria Tech
What is the earliest type of music that you listened to and what was the first album that you bought?
Earliest Motown Sounds, First album Bad by Michael Jackson
How old are you and how long have you been in the music business?
25 going on 26, been in the industry teaching for 6years and music industry for 3 to 4 years
Which musician did you hook up with first and how did you meet?
DJ Cleo, while studying in Allenby
Who writes your songs?
Me myself and I, Who can singa song with emotion unless you’ve been there.
Do you start with the lyrics or the melody first?
It depends on the song, it depends on the situation and circumstances
Who has been most instrumental to your success?
The team working around has had real belief in me.
What has been the best gig for you so far?
My launch
Where do you mainly record and why?
No specific studio, because working with specific producers they feel comfortable with their studio, so its just moving around
How come a white boy like you got so much soul??? Did you only listen to so-called “black music” growing up or were you mixing with black friends too?
Early on in my life it was hard to mix with black people, later in primary school I did see that first sign of black people moving into white schools, which made it easier. Initially it was my dad who bought me up in a lot of soul and gospel and blues, that’s probably where the black thing comes from
Do you have mixed friends now?
Duh, two words Ghetto Ruff.
Do the public recognise you in the streets yet? How do you feel about your growing fame?
Yes they do recognise me, from Project Fame, I got a lot of recognition in the streets. Its always much more satisfying when they compliment my music and singing voice.
How do you feel when people call you the Justin of SA?
They haven’t seen me dance.
What do R and J stand for>?
The initials for the first and second name (oh come on 🙂 Editista)
Where do you live in Joburg and why?
Norwood, because that’s where my girl is. Plus its close to everything
Where is your favourite place in Joburg and why???
Jimmy Killer Prawns, I love food I love prawns and they make the best ones
What do you think about the current situation in the SA music industry?
I think its sad that certain musician are not getting recognition until they have gone abroad. I feel that the liberal image in the music industry is fading away.
Do you believe in Kwaito? Where do you think it will go from here?
I do believe in kwaito, it will go as far as kwaito musicians will take it. It is the stepping stone to a local music form.
Who is your tightest lyricist on the HipHop scene and why?
Two people, in vernacular Pitch Black Afro is head and shoulder above everybody else. Tumi is also the best
What car do you drive?
Peugeot 206
What song is your favourite at the moment?
Jon Legend – Ordinary people (oh its mine too – Editista)
Are you single? Looking? Happily in love? Any kids?
Happily in love, no kids yet.
If you could do anything again what would it be and why?
Repeat writing the songs and have people know the feeling you get when you write a song because there nothing more satisfyingHappily in love, no kids yet.Repeat writing the songs and have people know the feeling you get when you write a song because there nothing more satisfyingWhat excites you and drives you?
Music that touches my soul, innovation as opposed to staying with the norm of what music is supposed to do and people who believe in themselves
What exciting event or thing in the future do you think about and cant wait for?
My album in to be released in Paris
Happily in love, no kids yet.Repeat writing the songs and have people know the feeling you get when you write a song because there nothing more satisfyingMusic that touches my soul, innovation as opposed to staying with the norm of what music is supposed to do and people who believe in themselvesMy album in to be released in Paris
