ben wylen

If Ben Wylen isn’t already on your radar, allow us to introduce you to him. We talked to the singer about his latest single, career goals and more!

words by VANESSA SALLES

Tell us about your new single, “Skinny Jeans”! What’s the story behind the track?

I wrote Skinny Jeans while I was in London on a songwriting trip. I kept seeing instances of police brutality on the news and it really depressed me. I started to think about the things my parents’ generation fought for in the 1960’s and realized that my generation was still fighting for a lot of the same things. This song is my rallying cry. It is a reminder that the youth of this generation will not let these injustices stand!

How would you describe your creative process?

In general, I like to form some kind of intention before I sit down to write. Generally, I find it hard to write songs that are any good if I don’t know what I am trying to say. Skinny Jeans, like most of my songs, are conceived conceptually before I write anything. Sometimes melodies and lyrics seem to come from nowhere though. It is very spiritual and despite the hundreds of songs I have written over the years, I still don’t profess to know where inspiration comes from!

Which artist(s) are on your dream collab list?

It would be an absolute dream to work with Bon Iver or Jack Antonoff. Both of them have a knack for making modern songs that have a classic feeling to them. I think we could make something really special together! If you know either of them, feel free to connect them with me!

When you think of your ultimate career goals, what comes to mind?

My goal is and will always be to write songs that last forever. I think of songs like ‘Let It Be’ or ‘Stand By Me’ and they are still moving people over 50 years after they were written! That is what I am after!

What has life in quarantine looked like for you lately?

I feel very fortunate to have a home studio. I have been making lots of music and writing a ton. I actually recorded and produced “Skinny Jeans” in my living room! While this time has been challenging, it has given me a chance to expand my production skills. It has also given me some more time to work on projects that I have long pushed aside. I was finally able to achieve a huge goal during quarantine by starting my very own podcast! It is called “People Say” and features some incredible guests like Barns Courtney and Ed Harcourt. It’s about the trials and tribulations of making a career in the arts. I’m super inspired by these chats. I’m hoping it inspires others to put their life into a dream career too, no matter what people say!

What’s the biggest lesson you’ve learned this year?

Everything in life is fleeting. This pandemic has reminded us how life can change in an instant. For me, it has given me a new appreciation for all the little things in life. Most importantly, it has made me appreciate playing live, which is something I greatly miss.

With a growing social following, what’s the best way for fans to get your attention online?

Fans are always welcome to message me on Instagram or any other social media platform. I answer every single message personally. I want my fans to know that they are the reason that I have any success at all. The least I can do is give them my time and get to know them a little better! My handle on social media is @ benwylenofficial!