Benjamin James (UK)
Benjamin James, an English songwriter, producer, multi-instrumentalist and music director, has crafted an impressive spectrum of skills throughout his diverse career. With a degree in contemporary guitar and advanced training in classical piano, singing and music theory, his broad range of talents and abilities set him apart from others in an industry where versatility is often scarce.
Benjamin’s professional music career began in 2007, performing as an artist in his indie band, Bitter Ruin, to audiences across the UK, USA and Europe, along side other acts such as Sam Smith, Ed Sheeran, Ben Folds and Amanda Palmer (The Dresden Dolls). Their 2011 single, ‘Trust', propelled them into the top 20 of the UK Independent Single Chart, earning them critical acclaim from international press and radio, plus several celebrity endorsements.
Along side his artist career, Benjamin dedicated his time working as a producer and co-writer with other emerging UK artists, sharing his expertise to help them develop their own musical identities. This became the focus of his professional career from 2014 onwards as Bitter Ruin took a break from working on new material.
Upon relocating to Vietnam in 2016, Benjamin immersed himself in Vietnamese culture, the language, and the music scene, looking for a way to continue his passion for working with and developing artists here. Seven years later, he has built up quite a list of clients and credits including writing and studio collaborations with artists such as MCK, Vũ Cát Tường, Ngọt, Thắng, Hoàng Thùy Linh, Trọng Hiếu, Han Sara, MINH, and VSTRA among others. Live performances and music direction for artists like Suboi and Thịnh Suy, along with ongoing work with emerging UK talents like Lola Aviva, round out his impressive portfolio.
In the ever-evolving symphony of his career, Benjamin James stands as a testament to the transformative power of music. From the early open mic nights of Bitter Ruin, along the winding tour routes of the USA and Europe, to the diverse landscapes of Vietnam, his journey reflects not only a wealth of musical talent but a dedication to nurturing the artistry of others. As he continues to weave melodies and shape emerging voices, Benjamin’s story is a harmonious blend of passion, skill, and an unwavering commitment to the universal language of music.