Thursday, September 30, 2021

Benji Cavalli: we should focus on the bigger picture





Ever since he first emerged onto the scene with his hit song “Slow It Down”, Benji Cavalli has continuously proven himself as an award winner. Priding himself as a singer and dancer, he has kept himself booked over the years. Check out my interview with Benji below. 


What has been the best performance of your career so far?


- My first time performing at the LEA in 2016. I received a lot of support from the fans, the energy from the crowd was great, and it is also the same year I won Best Music Video for “Slow It Down.”


Who inspired you to make music?


- My uncle Zack Roberts was one of Liberia’s legendary performers. He and Liberia’s Coast Guard band exposed me to different sounds at an early age and my passion for music still exists today.


What is your creative process like?


- I like to be in a place of peace and quiet because I write best when I’m relaxed. I always begin with prayer, then I draw from my experiences and what I observe around me.


Who would you most like to collaborate with?


- I’m open to working with any artist who would like to work with me. I’m all about pushing Liberia forward through arts and would like to partner with anyone who also shares that vision.


If you could go open a show for any artist who would it be?


- If Michael Jackson were alive, it’d be him.


 Do you sing in the shower? What songs?


- Of course. I sing my own songs and try to create some also.


How do you feel the Internet has impacted the music business?


- It has made music accessible to more listeners and has increased my ability to leave a global impact. 


What is your favourite song to perform?


- “Lazy” for sure because the fans love it, and I love to see the smiles on their faces. 


What do you think about the current state of the Liberian music industry? 


- Right now the industry is growing compared to years back. We have a lot of talent, and our music is reaching across borders through collaborations with artists from other markets. We are moving in the right direction.


What is the most trouble you’ve ever gotten into?



- When I was very young, I snuck into the building where the Coast Guard band used to rehearse. When they were done I hid in the closet, and after they left and locked the doors, I stayed there playing the drums all night. My parents were looking for me. A janitor ended up finding me, and when I got home I was in a lot of trouble for missing dinner and causing my family to panic. 


If you could change anything about the industry, what would it be?


- I wish we would collaborate more. We are all trying to change our narrative and push Liberia forward, so we should focus on the bigger picture behind what we are doing.


What’s next for you?


- I’m actually working on my first album and preparing for a U.S. tour in addition to connecting more closely with my fan base in Liberia. I’m excited about putting out a complete project, and I’m trusting God for the rest.


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