Ben James: The Raw Sound of Guyana’s Unfiltered Indie Voice

Ben James (Reuben Ally), a musician from Guyana, is not interested in perfection, he is committed to honesty. With a sound he describes as “messy,” his music prioritizes feeling over flawless production. In an era where over-polished tracks dominate, Ben’s approach is refreshingly unfiltered: he sings what he feels in the moment, letting raw emotion guide his art. “I hate spending hours on writing,” he admits. “If I can’t say what I want to say, I probably should just wait until I’m able to spit it out.”

Growing up surrounded by music, Ben’s roots trace back to his grandfather, a pastor who sang, and a father who had dreams of performing. At fifteen, inspired by family influences and armed with a computer mic and phone speakers, he began creating music in his room. “I was so edgy and sad, so much to say with no substance, but I loved doing it,” he recalls. Early guidance from his cousin Rapheal helped him refine his sound, and although their collaborations have shifted over time, the bond remains foundational to Ben’s journey. His first EP, A Love Overdose, created for a personal muse, remains a symbol of his growth a mix of youthful vulnerability and creative exploration.

Ben’s inspirations are wide-ranging, from Nirvana and Kurt Cobain’s raw energy to Mac DeMarco’s indie vibes, XXXTentacion’s emotional intensity, and the classic rock sound of Blue Öyster Cult, The Killers, The Kinks, Pink Floyd, and Metallica. This diverse palette shapes his music into a hybrid of grunge, indie, and rock influences. “I like a lot of music; I could sit here for hours talking about it,” he says, a reflection of his curiosity and openness as an artist.

The creative process for Ben is instinctive. He starts with an instrumental or an online beat, experimenting with vocals until the music triggers a physical response — “a little tingle behind my head” that signals a song is worth pursuing. If it doesn’t hit that spark, he moves on. This intuitive method ensures his music remains alive, genuine, and unforced.

Although he doesn’t chase fame or commercial success, Ben hopes his listeners connect with his work. “I just hope people like it; what they feel is up to them,” he says. His philosophy emphasizes freedom and imperfection, advocating for art as a reflection of the human experience. Mistakes and flaws are not failures; they are proof of authenticity.

Support and inspiration have been critical to Ben’s artistic path. Rapheal’s encouragement, skill, and example as a visual artist fueled Ben’s own dedication to music. “There wouldn’t be a Ben James without Rapheal,” he reflects, highlighting the value of mentorship and creative camaraderie.

Looking ahead, Ben’s goal is simple: make music and enjoy the process. No grand schemes, no pressure, just creation. He sums himself up in three words: “confused, messy, and content.” This honesty defines both his art and his perspective on life.

For aspiring musicians and creatives, Ben’s advice is straightforward: “Make art, make what you feel, and don’t worry about making it perfect. Most likely, someone will see what you wanted them to see and appreciate it. You will grow eventually, so don’t rush the process.”

Ben James is an emblem of authenticity in music a reminder that true art comes from the heart, embraces imperfection, and exists to express the human experience in all its messy, beautiful complexity

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