With the unveiling of his latest single “Goodbye”, rising British singer/songwriter Benji Brown ponders the complexities of a broken heart.
Serving as the 24-year-old’s first musical release in over two years, the introspective track finds a conflicted Brown facing up to the bittersweet reality that his relationship is on the outs. Laced with evocative lyrics, and self-reflective musings, reminiscent in style to classic cuts by late ’90s / early ’00s R&B stars Ne-Yo and Mario, “Goodbye” serves as a wonderful reintroduction to one the UK’s most promising new talents.
Benji Brown x Goodbye
Having grown up in Northampton in the early 2000’s, surrounded by music and inspired by the phenomenal achievements of his big sister, indie pop singer-songwriter, model and record producer VV Brown, Brown first began posting musical content online when he was just 16 years old – gaining attention and praise for his interpretations of songs by some of musics biggest names.
In recent years the singer has gained praises from both critics and fans, following the release of his debut single “Deja Vu”, and follow-up “Yesterday’s Love”.
As he takes his first tentative steps back into the world of pop, here Benji talks finding solace in songwriting, fashion, future plans, and why sometimes he finds it hard to let go…
You’ve just dropped your latest single “Goodbye” – how does it feel to be putting out new music?
It’s been 2 years since my last song “Let it All Go” came out, and so I’ve had a lot of time to reflect on the style of music I want to create, as well as the messages I what to portray. It’s a great feeling to be back, and this is just the first single this year, there’s definitely more to come…
How would you say this track differs from your previous releases?
I would say all my songs to date are about heartbreak, so I’ve continued down that lane but with this track, but this time I wanted to show off my vocals more.
You’ve done a wonderful job at fusing together elements of modern-day contemporary pop, with flavours of 90’s / 00’s R&B – do you find yourself inspired by that era and time in music?
I love 90s R&B, that is my favourite genre of music – if you really know me, then you’ll know I’m like the R&B king (laughs). It’s music I wish I made, and I feel like I’m getting there just with a modern twist.
Lyrically, the song feels incredibly personal, what was going on in your head at the time of writing it?
I guess I was trying to get my head around the fact that there’s always gonna be a time in your life when you have to say goodbye to someone, no matter how much you feel like you don’t want to. It’s not the easiest thing to do, but sometimes you have no choice but to say goodbye to protect yourself.
Goodbye’s are always hard – are you somebody who finds it easy to move on, and let go?
I’m terrible at moving on! I’ve noticed a lot of the time I’m writing about stuff I need to do myself, but never dare to do it (laughs). I guess my way of dealing with a difficult situation is to turn it into a song.
Is there anything you hope fans and listeners will take away from the track?
I just hope those who listen to the track, find peace in saying goodbye to whatever situation they are going through. If saying goodbye is what you need do, then let this song be your soundtrack for that.
Which artists are you enjoying listening to at the moment?
I’m really into old school Beyoncé at the moment! She is a such legend, and a major inspiration of mine.
What’s on your career bucket list?
I would love to attend the GRAMMYS – that’s definitely on my bucket list.
Away from music, you’ve been very active in the world of fashion – do you have any projects coming up?
No, I’ve no fashions projects in the works at the moment, but I have just opened up a London-inspired coffee shop in my hometown which looks incredible! I’m so proud of my team for helping to make this become a reality.
How would you say your personal style has changed over the course of the last few years?
Honestly my style changes so much (laughs). I get a lot of inspiration from people on the streets, I’ll see someone, and be like: “that’s how I want to dress!!”
What can fans expect to see next from Benji Brown?
There’s more new music coming, and then a gig in November… so stay tuned!
“Goodbye” is available to download / stream now