Born in London and raised in the deep south of the United States, Ben’s musical style reflects these experiences. His guitar playing is an intoxicating mix, combining the raw delta blues of Robert Johnson, the Piedmont style of Reverend Gary Davis and the infectious bounce of Big Bill Broonzy.

With this as a foundation Ben also makes use of his years playing rock music, New Orleans jazz, and classical guitar, resulting in powerful lyrical soundscapes and an original songwriting style that reflects the breadth of genres. This combined with a soulful voice and commanding stage presence completes the picture of an innovative artist.

Among Ben’s many projects is his band ‘The Spikedrivers’- a group he founded in 1992 as a project to encompass his love of early blues and roots music and a vehicle for his own songwriting and multiple guitar styles. The current line up features Constance Redgrave, Maurice McElroy & Roger Nunn and over the past 32 years have released 10 CDs featuring many of Ben’s original compositions.

For more on the Spikedrivers: www.spikedrivers.net

Ben also performs with: ‘Saints & Sinners’ a blues and gospel group featuring his Spikedrivers band mates along with Fran McGillivray and Mike Burke. Other projects include ‘Blues & Other Colours’ with Roger Askew and often featuring Olly Blanchflower & Michele Drees. Ben has also collaborated as a duo for many years with Guy Tortora.

Other artists Ben has performed with include: Brooks Williams, Mike Dowling, Steve Morrison, Martin McNeill, Lee Sankey, Tim Aves ‘Wolfpack’ as well as being a featured artist with, The Boogaloo Blues All-Stars and with The Royal Shakespeare Company.

All photos by Katie Dahlstrom
katiedahlstrom.com

UK Blues Federation
‘Traditional Blues Artist’
Nominee 2024

UK Blues Federation
‘Acoustic Act Of The Year’
Nominee 2023