Listen Up - Benita Johnson
A new EP, Five By Five is now available
Benita Johnson
This month's Listen Up feature puts the spotlight on Benita Johnson. Benita is an experienced singer-songwriter from the South East. Dynamic and soulful, her songs encapsulate what it is to be human.
How would you describe your music?
Well, it's a privilege to write it. I don't know how come I can do this - but it's great! My music is a mixture of rock, pop, folk, blues, americana. Based on audience responses, the songs I write seem to be relatable to a wide cross-section of people. Themes of love, loss, isolation, longing and resolution run through them, interwoven with imagery and characterizations that probably speak to us all on some level. It isn't all deep and meaningful - I like to have fun with it too! If the audience is up for a bit of participation so much the better! The power of music to permeate a room and unite people with a simple harmony, a thread of emotion - that's a beautiful thing to observe and be a part of. That's what I do it for.
What has been your highlight so far?
It's really hard to pick one. Every gig is unique and rewarding in some way. I've had the good fortune to share stages with some big names at times, I've performed to crowds up to 2000 strong at festivals big and small and I've produced recordings that have been well received by reviewers and fans. I have also worked on community projects to help raise awareness around pertinent issues. When I think about it, I suppose the "highlight" for me is always what I'm doing right here and now. So, I've just released an EP called "Five By Five" - you can get a CD at gigs or download it at https://benitajohnson.bandcamp.com/. It's a collection of five songs recorded live and solo this year. They are an expression of where I'm at right now - the rise of a new wave to ride. And that, for me, is exciting.
What plans regarding recordings, video, tours etc do you have for the future?
I'm currently working with a new band and looking forward to presenting my songs with a bigger sound in the near future. Meanwhile, I plan to continue gigging solo to promote the new EP while I work on video projects to expand my YouTube presence. That's in the foreground, but I don't set a time limit. Things happen when they're ready
Is there anything else you would like to say or any message to our readers?
I'm sure they don't need me to tell them! But, folks, please do carry on supporting grassroots music and get along to live gigs any time you can. It's so important. And when you hear something you like - pass it on.
For more details:
benitajohnson.com
Live
Fatea Showcase Sessions
The Fatea Showcase Sessions are a series of downloads featuring acts that we've really enjoyed and think that more people should get the chance to hear.
Corsair is the current session and features 16 fantastic artists check out the website to find out more about them and download your copy
www.fatea-showcase-sessions.co.uk for all the artist information.