Meet Sarahia Benn | Multi-instrumentalist, Music Producer, DJ, Mix Angineer, Small business Entrepreneur

We had the good fortune of connecting with Sarahia Benn and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Sarahia, what led you to pursuing a creative path professionally?

As a toddler, I was immersed in a family that reveled in music, from the soulful tunes of Marvin Gaye to the captivating melodies of Miles Davis and the powerful vocals of Mahalia Jackson. Many in my family ventured into amateur music careers, including my father, a semi pro blues guitarist, and several cousins who toured with renowned gospel and R&B artists in the late ’60s and ’70s. 

Growing up in an environment marked by struggle, music became my refuge. At the tender age of four, my father attempted to teach me the guitar, and I found myself yearning to play iconic songs by Stevie Wonder and Marvin Gaye—music that transcended the times and touched my soul. I aspired to be a creator of music that stirred profound emotions in people. 

In the midst of adversity, I sought discipline and focus through music. Faced with a lack of resources and the presence of potential predators in my impoverished surroundings, I needed an outlet for my energy. While I lacked the gift of drawing or painting, I envisioned painting my experiences through musical notes—a disciplined form of self-expression that allowed me to convey every observation of my life. 

Marvin Gaye’s “What’s Going On” resonated with me on a sonic and spiritual level. It was not only a creative masterpiece but also a sociological commentary that broke down the times through song, utilizing innovative technologies and storytelling—an art I aspired to create. Prince further deepened my connection to music, providing a cathartic experience that allowed me to feel connected to my community despite my sense of seeming somewhat of an outcast. 

For me, the pinnacle of musical art lies in its ability to deliver social commentary. Coming of age during the Blaxploitation era, or as I see it, the Black power era, instilled a sense of pride in being Black and empowered me to address social and political issues through song. With my inclination towards a blend of funk, jazz, R&B, gospel, blues, and rock, I found my voice to create songs and music that serve as an exploration and complete understanding of my identity. Whether performing an original composition or a cover, my art is an immersive experience—a manifestation of “The Benn Experience.” 

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.

What sets me apart from others is that as a top session and touring musician, podcast personality, consultant, policy expert, and advisor, producer, songwriter, arranger who continues to push the bounds of what space a creative being can be in. I not only excel at music, I excel in the consultant and policy space that impacts policies from tax, transportation, environmental, social justice to music and gig working reform. 

Here are some more specifics that set me apart: 

1. Innovative Educational Initiatives: Creating groundbreaking events like the SMB Music Group Contemporary Music Conference/Concert 2024 for DMV, which is one of the first music conferences in Maryland in over 15 years and demonstrating a commitment to educating aspiring musicians and artists about the intricacies of the music industry. 
2. Multifaceted Skill Set: Excelling in various roles, from being a top musician and podcast personality to a political consultant and policy expert, showcasing versatility and expertise across diverse domains. 
3. Strategic Advisorship: Providing insightful guidance and strategic advice, proving instrumental in decision-making processes for individuals, small businesses, legislators, or nonprofit organizations. 
4. Pioneering Music Education: Developing new ways to educate people on music through lectures, clinics and to be compiled in a book in the future. Contributing to the evolution of music education and industry practices in Maryland which is lagging in its cultivation of the Music and Arts. 
5. Originality in Artistic Expression: Showcasing a unique and original approach to music, setting a distinct tone in composition, arrangement, and production with my mix of Funk N Roll which encompasses elements of Funk, Jazz, RNB, Latin, Pop, Hip Hop, Jazz Fusion, Contemporary Gospel, and Rock N Roll. 
6. Community Engagement: Actively engaging with the local community, as evidenced by initiatives like the DMV Music Conference/Concert, fostering a sense of connection and support within the music industry. Fostering connections in the community with social justice and environmental fights by helping to pass two landmark legislation in Maryland: The Climate Solutions Now and Advanced Clean Truck Rule of 2023 both bills improving the lives of Black, Veteran, and marginalized communities Maryland wide.
7. Impactful Songwriting: Demonstrating prowess in songwriting that not only entertains but also conveys meaningful messages or stories, leaving a lasting impression on listeners. 
8. Strategic Policy Influence: Leveraging expertise in policy and politics to effect positive change in the music industry, addressing issues and advocating for musicians’ rights, the gig economy, financial equity, etc. 
9. Proactive Industry Involvement: Actively participating in industry events, collaborations, and networks, staying abreast of trends and contributing to the growth and development of the music community in Maryland and Nationwide. 
10. Entrepreneurial Vision: Beyond creating music, displaying an entrepreneurial vision by organizing conferences and concerts and other events contributing to the economic and artistic growth of the local music and arts scene. 

My greatest source of pride lies in forging my unique path and being true to myself. Undoubtedly, my family is a source of immense pride for me. Looking ahead, I am filled with excitement about the upcoming array of music events, the creation and sale of original music to the public, and the myriad opportunities on the horizon. 

How did you get to where you are today professionally? Was it easy? If not, how did you overcome the challenges? 

Hard work, discipline, and the ability to continue to remake myself as the music and media trends changed. No it has not been easy. Any independent entrepreneur experiences challenges specifically in accessing resources and capital but I have found sponsors when needed or was able to self fund when necessary to achieve success. 

What are the lessons you’ve learned along the way? 

The main lesson I’ve learned is “Don’t give up. Don’t ever give up.” And that’s what I’m going to try to do every minute that I have left.”As Jimmy Valvano said. I also “I envision my future today because tomorrow is the past!” Finally, “Be passionate and move forward with gusto every single hour of every single day until you reach your goal.” by Ava DuVernay I live in the “now.” Tomorrow is no guarantee. 

What do you want the world to know about you or your brand and story? Recap of facts about Sarahia Benn:

She is a resident of Maryland and a native New Yorker. 

She is a graduate of the prestigious Berklee College of Music. 

She is a singer-songwriter, multi-instrumentalist, and producer. 

Media and policy consultant 

She is the founder, bassist, and vocalist of the band The Benn Experience. The Benn Experience is set to release an upcoming release(s) in 2024. 

The Benn Experience has sold out multiple theater shows in 2022 & 2023 in Maryland. She is the founder, lead vocalist, and in-demand bassist of the band “The Benn Experience”. Benn is a versatile vocalist and known for her soulful and expressive performances that some compare to Stokely, H.E.R., Thundercat, Snarky Puppy, Ari Lennox, etc. After graduating from Berklee College of Music, Benn relocated to Los Angeles, where she quickly established himself as a go-to session musician and ghost writer. Worked on numerous R&B, rap, rock, and pop projects, and also began producing her own music 

Formed a production team with Berklee Alumni Boon T to produce beats, arrangements, and ghost writing for numerous artists, sessions, and record labels at Rusk Studios including Herbie Luv Bug, Paramount (music) and Solar recording studios 

Began touring with a Baltimore group called “Nuance,” who garnered a ton of backing and buzz from several big name production companies 

“Nuance” opened for Wyclef Jean, Busta Rhymes, Jaguar Wright, Chuck Brown, and various other national acts in numerous tours Nationally and Internationally 

Continued to garner consistent music production, remixing, music consultation, and clinic work Released two beat cds “BBX WORLDWIDE & DB XXL PRESENT: 808 EDITION VOL. 1” and VOL. 2 of the 808 EDITION in 2012. 

Remixed for International PopStar, Ian Guerin 

Worked with on numerous dance, hip hop remixes released worldwide 

Been an active member of ASCAP performing rights organization 

She is a passionate advocate for social justice. 

She is a political expert and consultant as well as a musical expert and consultant responsible for drafting legislative policy, helping to pass important legislative bills in Maryland She is an inspiration to many. 

Ultimately, my brand is built on energy and enjoying life to the fullest—this is the narrative of my life.

The future: SMB Music Group Contemporary Music Conference/Concert that is coming up February 23, and 24, 2024!! May it help all aspiring musicians in and outside of my region. Sponsors stand up!!!! 

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.

Day 1: Baltimore Vibes 

Morning: Start at Soul & Krab House in Baltimore for the best crab and cheesecake, supporting a Black and woman-owned business. 

Afternoon: Wayback burger at Festival Park Bel Air, MD for a solid burger and shake. Evening: Explore R House for a diverse culinary experience and enjoy great music. 

Day 2: Cultural Exploration 

Morning: Head to Island Cuisine in Towson for a taste of Jamaican flavors. Afternoon: Dive into the Land of Kush for a vegan culinary experience. 

Evening: Indulge in Connie’s Chicken and Waffles, followed by more delights at R House. Day 3: Jazz and Rock 

Morning: Explore local historical attractions and shops in the area. 

Early Evening: Todd Barkan’s Keystone Korner for contemporary or traditional jazz for an early evening set or two. 

Evening: Cap off the day at The State Theater for live music like the “Benn Experience” www.smbmusicgroup.co or https://smbmusicgroup1.wixsite.com/thebennexperience 

Day 4: Casino and Entertainment 

Morning/Afternoon: Optional visit to casinos in Baltimore or Perryville for some entertainment. Evening: Preserve your coins and opt for Arundel Mills to catch an exciting MMA match. 

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?

I want to dedicate my shoutout to my mothers, Grace and Jean, one who birthed me and the other who was part of the village who raised me to be strong-willed and focused. They blessed me everyday with their wisdom and grace. 

I would also like to extend my appreciation to my entire Bishop family, including uncles and aunts, who played a vital role in raising me. Additionally, credit goes to the African American music community, encompassing the Motown Movement, the Blues movement, Jimi Hendrix, and the diverse sounds from the New York music scene, spanning funk, disco, R&B, and hip hop, creating an artistic legacy that will endure for centuries. 

Shoutout to the SMB Music Group Contemporary Music Conference/Concert that is coming up February 23, and 24, 2024!! May it be a success and a help to all aspiring musicians in and outside of my region. Sponsors stand up!!!! And all the many future endeavors to come. We are about to push the Maryland music scene forward for contemporary music. 

Website: https://www.smbmusicgroup.co/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/SMBMusicGroup1

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dbxxl-benn-432aa644/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/SmBMusicGroup2

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SMBMusicGroup

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCtERn7F-uIHHd1oUdRQlB2g

Image Credits
Photo 1 Pat Venturino Photo 2 SMB Enterprises LLC, media division (Benn) Photo 3 Damian Hunt Photography Photo 4 Pat Venturino PHoto 5 SMB Enterprises LLC, media division (Benn) Photo 6 SMB Enterprises LLC, media division (Benn) Photo 7 SMB Enterprises LLC, media division (Benn) Photo 8 SMB Enterprises LLC, media division (Benn)