SongVault Artist Profile
Ben Gardner
East Coast
Virginia, United States Blues / Contemporary Blues
*** 2011 Update ***
I am a featured artist on a newly released CD compilation *********************************** I performed with Collecting Efforts Band and were recording music. The group has disbanded after several key members passed. My last song had a message and a new rhythm - music with a message and a purpose. *********************************** I am also a solo/one-man-band; and wrote the music and performed all instruments and music. for the other songs at home. I raised my family with songs in my heart and worked with troubled youth using music. All of this happened after realizing that music may have saved my life:as a youth, I discovered greater choices in life because of music. I grew up in bands -- literally... playing with a few great artists. I have performed over 40 years, My first paid -band experience began in 1968 - I was 14 years old - with an adult performing show band. Later, I was fortunate to have performed with a few original blues performers, and realized that, "I am standing on their shoulders"-- not just in a venue-- but a musical tradition seeped deep into culture. So I loudly, and yet humbly say: thank you-- Benny Sparks, Blind Dog, Mr. Jimmy, George Allen Miles, and Jammin' Jay - and a few others. I owe you and the blues, and shall celebrate your time and music. I met many along the way; and also learned a few things I carry with me as well. From humble origins to heights and back again, I work my way through life's challenges with songs. Remember: ... "the whole thing about the blues is getting past it!" I sing to celebrate life, to conquer adversity, to gain a measure of balance, and to inspire. In this life some teardrops must fall... I hope you enjoy my songs, I have many more I hope to share. Thank you for taking the time to review this material folks... and a special thanks to Song Vault -- YEAH!! -- for having this opportunity! http://www.myspace.com/benton_gardner |
