Benny Cassette is not just the newest face in popular music, he’s an arist that’s managed to create his own sound by mashing up hip hop, soul, rock, and pop into his own hybrid genre. Along with his personal stories of growing up in LA and the soul searching between, something totally refreshing in sound and message has been formed. Benny has found himself in many situations where people have called him “too honest” or “too out there” with what he’s trying to do, and in his words those type of comments have merely “fueled the fire.”
Benny’s music is a look into his diverse upbringing, “I came up in the LA hip hop scene listening to NWA and the Beastie Boys and going to open mics with Will I Am. On top of that I grew up in a Latino neighborhood where I heard salsa, ranchero, and oldies. At home, my dad listened to jazz, and then I attended inner city schools where kids either played rap at lunchtime or rock after school. To me good music is good music." These influences are definitely evident in his inspirational and inventive approach.
Take for instance the anthemic ‘Working Man’s Hero’ from his up coming debut. Its a tale of everyday life in America which features country legend Willie Nelson and hip-hop heavyweight Mos Def. Benny puts it best, "Most people thought I was crazy for having those two on the same song with me, but to me they represent the working man in their respective genres more than anyone. Having them on the song was a no brainer." Many may ask where this all fits in today’s corporate musical landscape? "At the end of the day I’m a hip hop artist with alternative influences. I make music for the people, whether I’m rapping, singing, playing guitar or the piano. My mentality is to do whatever I have to do to get my point across." Benny definitely strives to not only be a trendsetter but also a visionary.
Benny has always produced and written his own material and with the likes of Timbaland, and Dr. Dre giving him the thumbs up, it seems to be working out. As his artistry is starting to get noticed, so is his production, and in the footsteps of influences like Kanye West and Eminem, phone calls for a taste of his work are beginning to trickle in. His collaborations have already found their way to the likes of Eve, Will I Am, Shakira, and new artist Tara Ellis.
Benny Cassette’s journey has just begun and where it will end up only time will tell. "I’m just trying to speak truth, give hope, and make honest music. That’s what people want and need right now and if I can do that, Im good. I think the world is ready and its finally my time." Spoken like a true artist. Look out for his first 2 singles, “808 Girls” and “World Is A Ghetto” featuring Eve coming out later this year.
