Introducing the awesome singer-songwriter who’s making waves with his music worldwide, Alec Benjamin. With his third studio album, “12 Notes,” just around the corner, there’s so much excitement as we eagerly await the next chapter in his musical journey. In this super exclusive interview, we’re going dive deep into what inspired “12 Notes,” see how Alec’s music has grown and changed over time, and uncover the real stories behind his songs. Get ready to join me as we explore Alec Benjamin’s incredible ride from small beginnings to big dreams, and find out why being true to himself and sharing his heart with the world means everything to him.
Congratulations on the upcoming release of your third studio album, “12 Notes”! Can you tell us about the inspiration behind the album and what listeners can expect from it?
Thank you so much! “12 Notes” is really a collection of 12 journal entries, each representing a different chapter of my life. It’s like opening up my diary and sharing these deeply personal stories with my listeners. The inspiration behind the album comes from my own experiences, struggles, and moments of clarity.
You’ve mentioned that each track on “12 Notes” reflects a unique aspect of your life over the past year and a half. Could you share some specific experiences or emotions that influenced the songwriting process?
Yeah, I poured my heart into this album. Last year was a whirlwind with so much on my plate and things I was trying to figure out. I was facing a ton of changes that were looming, ones I knew I had to tackle but needed more time to be ready for. Now, though, I’ve taken that leap, made those changes, and the album is finally complete.
Your singles “King Size Bed,” “I Sent My Therapist To Therapy,” and “Pick Me” have already resonated strongly with audiences. How do these songs fit into the broader narrative of the album, and what themes do they explore?
“King Size Bed,” “I Sent My Therapist To Therapy,” and “Pick Me” are all part of the album’s narrative, exploring themes of love, mental health, and personal growth. They showcase different facets of my life and emotions.
It’s exciting to hear about your upcoming US headline tour and your performance supporting Stray Kids in London. What can fans expect from your live shows, and do you have any surprises in store for audiences?
Thank you so much! I’m thrilled about the tour and can’t wait to get back out on the road. For my live shows, fans can expect heartfelt performances, storytelling through music, and a connection that goes beyond the stage. As for surprises, I always like to keep things exciting, so there might be a few unexpected moments to look forward to… 🙂
“Different Kind of Beautiful” marked a significant shift in your musical journey. How did working with Grammy-winning duo Stargate influence the creative direction of this song, and what does it represent for you personally?
Working with Stargate on this album was a dream. They are true pros and helped elevate the song’s production while staying true to its emotional core. It represents a turning point in my musical journey, embracing a more polished sound while retaining my authentic storytelling style.
“I Sent My Therapist To Therapy” received acclaim from Rolling Stone and has amassed over 55 million streams. What do you think it is about this song that has resonated so deeply with listeners?
I’m happy that the fans are really resonating with this song. It addresses themes of self-doubt and seeking inner peace, which I think we all go through in some way. I’ve struggled with mental health, and sharing that with my fans, I think, helps them to connect with the song’s honesty and vulnerability. I hope that helps them to know that they aren’t alone in their mental health journey.
From your early experiences at summer camp to signing with Atlantic Records, your journey in the music industry has been quite dynamic. How have these experiences shaped your approach to songwriting and performing?
The journey has definitely helped in giving me a deep well of emotions and stories to draw from. Performing in various settings, from parking lots to sold-out shows, taught me the importance of connecting with the audience and staying true to myself.
In the midst of your busy schedule, how do you like to unwind during your downtime? Do you have any favorite hobbies or activities that help you relax and recharge?
During my downtime, I enjoy writing and spending time outdoors, especially riding my bike. Right now, I’m spending a lot of time in the gym to prepare for the tour.
Your journey from promoting your music in parking lots to achieving multi-platinum success is inspiring. How has your approach to songwriting and performing evolved since the early days of your career?
I’d say my approach has evolved from raw and personal storytelling to a more refined yet still authentic style. I strive to balance vulnerability with relatability, creating music that resonates with people on a deeper level.
Your music often addresses themes of mental health and self-discovery. How do you navigate balancing personal vulnerability with the desire to connect with your audience on a deeper level through your music?
Balancing personal vulnerability with connecting with my audience is a delicate dance. I believe that being open about my own struggles helps create a safe space for others to share their experiences, fostering a sense of community and understanding through music.
Social media plays a significant role in connecting artists with their audience. How do you utilize platforms like Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok to engage with your fans and attract new listeners to your music?
I try to keep up with social media as best as I can, but it can definitely be overwhelming at times. I think the key is finding a balance between staying connected with my fans and taking time for myself to recharge and focus on creating music. It’s important to me to be authentic and genuine in my interactions online, so I try to prioritize meaningful connections over just keeping up with the demands of social media.
With the release of your third studio album approaching, how do you manage the pressure and expectations that come with creating new music? Are there any rituals or practices you rely on to stay focused and inspired during the creative process?
Managing pressure and expectations is challenging, but staying focused on the music and the stories I want to tell keeps me grounded. Rituals like journaling and meditation help me stay inspired during the creative process.
Can you share any memorable moments or experiences from your recent tour in support of your sophomore album, “(Un)Commentary,” particularly the sold-out shows in the UK?
That tour was incredible, especially the sold-out shows in the UK!! The energy and support from fans were amazing, and I cherish those memories deeply. I can’t wait to come back soon 🙂
Beyond the music, you’ve also been vocal about the importance of mental health awareness. How do you hope to continue using your platform to destigmatize conversations surrounding mental health and provide support to your fans?
Mental health awareness is a cause close to my heart, and I hope to continue using my platform to destigmatize conversations around mental health and provide support to my fans through my music.
Your impressive streaming numbers and YouTube views speak to the global impact of your music. What do you hope listeners take away from your songs, regardless of where they are in the world?
I hope they take away a sense of connection and understanding from my songs, regardless of where they are in the world. Music has the power to unite us and remind us that we’re not alone in our experiences. If I can inspire listeners to ponder, question, agree, or disagree with me—engaging with my music on multiple levels—that’s something I’d truly take pride in.
Collaboration can be a powerful tool for growth and creativity. Are there any artists or producers you’re particularly interested in working with in the future, and what do you look for in potential collaborators?
Yeah, I’m always open to collaborating. I’m very grateful for the opportunity to collaborate with Khalid and many incredible producers and writers on this album. Collaboration truly fuels growth and creativity. Looking ahead, I’m always excited about the prospect of working with talented artists who bring their unique perspectives and passions to the table. I value authenticity, honesty, and a shared vision when it comes to choosing collaborators.
As you prepare for the release of “12 Notes” and embark on your US headline tour, what are you most excited about, and what can fans expect from your new album and live performances?
I’m incredibly excited for the release of “12 Notes” and the start of my tour. What excites me the most is sharing these songs live with my fans and feeling that energy in person. With “12 Notes,” fans can expect storytelling, introspective lyrics, and a deep dive into emotions and experiences from my life. As for the live performances, I can’t wait to see the fans singing along, connecting with the music, and creating unforgettable moments together!
Looking ahead, what are your goals and aspirations for the future of your music career? Are there any collaborations or projects on the horizon that you’re particularly excited about?
Looking ahead, I aspire to continue growing as an artist and storyteller. Collaborations and projects that push creative boundaries and resonate with listeners are always on my radar. But I’m honestly not sure what lies ahead, and that’s what makes it so thrilling. Predictability isn’t my thing; I prefer the mystery of each day. Tomorrow could be a life-changing experience, or it might not, and that unpredictability is what keeps me going. After the tour, I’m looking forward to some downtime with my family at home.
