Save Ben Reilly
Ben Reilly is a rapper from New York, renowned for his unique blend of comic book-inspired themes and hip-hop music. With a deep-rooted love for both art forms, Ben draws inspiration from influential figures such as Nas and Rakim, who captivated him with their lyrical prowess.
Having devoted himself to rap since high school, Ben initially pursued his musical career as part of the group Abstract Media. However, the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic compelled him to redirect his focus towards a solo project, resulting in his debut endeavor, FREELANCE.
Through a viral TikTok video showcasing a snippet from his song "Maytag", Ben first gained widespread recognition, garnering over six million views. Yet, it was not until his manager, Kei Henderson—known for her work with Atlanta-based artist 21 Savage—introduced him to a broader audience that his music truly resonated with fans. Kei's belief in Ben's talent reignited her passion for hip-hop, further fueling the desire to explore and cover his work.
Ben's meticulous attention to detail is reflected in every facet of his life, extending beyond his music. He demonstrates his thoughtful approach to everything he does, whether it's the carefully chosen imagery of birds for his album cover or the profound symbolism behind his stage name.
Despite his recent rise to prominence, Ben remains an independent artist. Nevertheless, he now engages in meetings with industry luminaries he once only dreamed of encountering. Additionally, he has had the opportunity to travel to Los Angeles—a pivotal milestone in his music career. With a humble and grateful attitude, Ben recognizes the challenges ahead while relishing the chance to pursue music as a full-time occupation.
Ben's creative brilliance is evident in the ideology and thought process behind his album FREELANCE, which aims to redefine the concept of freedom. Inspired by encounters with red cardinal birds during his neighborhood runs throughout quarantine, Ben became captivated by their symbolic representation of freedom, peace, and the presence of departed loved ones. These discoveries materialized in the songs "Brown Bird" and "Red Bird," which testify to Ben's realization of his potential and freedom.
Ben's affinity for intricate storytelling has been integral to his music. He has crafted artful compositions with his group, Abstract Media, incorporating carefully constructed transitions, immersive sound effects, and a balance of thought-provoking verses and infectious hooks.
Reflecting on his musical journey, Ben traces his love for hip-hop back to his formative years. Growing up in a single-parent household, he was exposed to the genre through the influence of both his mother and father, who possessed their rap backgrounds. Artists such as Rakim, Nas, and KRS-One significantly shaped his passion for rap. It was Dana Dane's "Nig” that ignited his determination to pursue a career in music during his high school years, leading him to write and record his first song.
With an unyielding commitment to his craft and a unique artistic vision, Ben Reilly is determined to make his mark in the rap scene, bringing together the worlds of comic books and hip-hop in a way that resonates deeply with his audience.
