Alternative Hip Hop from Benjamin Benz

New York City artist Benjamin Benz has spent more than 26 years making an impact in hip hop, building a career around independent ambition, hard-earned experience and a steadfast creative mission. Based in trap and gangster rap, his music combines gritty street tales with commanding delivery and a keen understanding of rhythm and by not waiting for the industry to open its doors, Benjamin has taken control of his own musical journey, financing, producing and promoting his releases on his own terms. For an artist whose name was made in rap battles and freestyle competitions, that independence represents an extension of the determination that’s carried him through decades in the game.

His story began with the competitive world of freestyle rap, where quick thinking and lyrical flair are put to the test in real time. Early in his career, he won a week straight in Power105’s live freestyle rap battle competition, confirming his status through his performance as opposed to a traditional route into the industry. His experience also includes appearances on multiple freestyle rap DVDs and several battles inside the legendary Monday Night Fight Klub, environments that have helped shape the engaging output that continues to define his music to this day.

His influences reflect a deep appreciation for hip hop’s most recognisable voices, with The Notorious B.I.G., 50 Cent, Jay-Z, Rick Ross, Jeezy and Future among the artists informing his sound. Benjamin is equally interested in finding ways to distinguish himself from conventional rap styles however and by drawing inspiration from Florida’s distinctive rap flow and pairing it with dance-focused beats, he’s developed a sound that balances slick lyricism with infectious grooves. It’s a combination designed to entertain without while maintaining the grit and attitude that underpin his street-focused perspective.

Away from the studio, Benjamin has performed at a wide range of venues, including SOB’s NYC, Irving Plaza, the Nuyorican Poets Cafe, Drama Lounge, The Pyramid, Blackthorn 51 and Times Square Arts Center. His performances have also taken him to Philadelphia’s M Bar Lounge, reflecting a live career built across different stages and settings. Recording at JamBox Studios in Midtown Manhattan adds another connection to New York’s musical history, the studio is identified as the birthplace of The Sugar Hill Gang’s historic first gold plaque in hip hop.

That context is readily apparent in his latest single titled “Work That Body,” a track that revolves around melodic production, robust basslines and a dance-influenced energy, finding Benjamin bringing a forceful rap delivery to a rhythmically driven setting. The contrast between the beat’s movement and his powerful flow gives the release its unique character, creating a sound that’s energising and instantly memorable from start to finish. “Work That Body” also captures the independent mindset behind Benjamin’s wider catalogue.

Distributed through DistroKid, the single lands without the backing of a record label, reflecting his determination to retain control over how his music is created and delivered. Set up by the thump of kick and buzz of synth as Benjamin’s lively vocalisations ring out above, the track jumps into a driving alternative hip hop scene cut with razor-sharp bars and infectious hooks. With intricate ebb and flow between grooving verses and enthralling choruses, it’s an epic urban anthem that’s sure to light up a club atmosphere while putting Benjamin’s original sound on full display.

The new single joins a growing collection of releases that includes “For the Love of Money,” “What’s Up Now,” “Wap Wet” and “5000,” all available worldwide through major streaming platforms. Independence is closely tied to his belief that artists need more than a deal to sustain a career; talent and work ethic remain essential and his own approach places responsibility for the music’s direction firmly in his hands. With “Work That Body,” Benjamin Benz serves up another killer hip hop jam that’s sure to impress countless listeners around the world while highlighting the determination that’s sustained his enduring sonic adventure thus far.

Listen to Work That Body below

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