Baton Rouge-native, OnlyBenton, reintroduces us to love, intention, and soothing conversations with his latest E.P. ‘Words Fall Short.’
He brings superb production and soothing vocal tones to his project. It’s worth a listen while he takes you on his journey of personal surrender.
Music has no sex, honestly. Plenty of songs are relatable regardless of what pronouns used or what body parts mentioned.
– OnlyBenton
Explain the title of your E.P.
The title of my E.P. “Words Fall Short,” came to me one night as I fell asleep. As much as I love writing and talking, I find it hard to articulate what’s needed in some conversations, especially the tough ones.
Sometimes my words fall short because of what I couldn’t say or be too afraid to say. So this project is my way to close those words that once fell short.
Who inspired your album?
I was inspired by the unconditional love that surrounds me. The intentional relationship(s) that I’ve built during my journey.
One relationship in particular that ‘Saved Me’ and allowed room for me also to save myself is the one with my fiancé. He was an inspiration during the process of this album.
Your E.P. is truly an R&B project. Why was it vital for you to reintroduce the world to this seemingly fading genre?
First, Thank YOUUUUUU! That means a lot! It was vital reintroducing R&B because it has been a style that has faded. Most singers want to be hard these days. Let’s be clear; there is nothing wrong with the infusion of R&B & Hip Hop.
I like a Lil jig every now and then myself. I’ve noticed no one talking about love anymore, and its an element that’s needed more than ever, especially NOW!
How has singing and growing up in the church influenced your musical style?
Singing and growing up in church influenced my musical style in many ways. It was where it all started for me. From understanding chords progressions to writing my first song and learning how to structure hooks, all begin in the church. The church is where the passion for music was discovered.
Dream Collaboration(s)?
Some of my dream collaborations:
- 1st would be Beyoncé, I mean because it’s freakin’ BEYONCE! That would be the ultimate for me.
- My next dream collaboration would be with H.E.R. She exudes such a richness in her tones. I would love to write with and complete a duo with her.
- Lastly, I would say Dreamville. This camp is excellence at its finest. I would collab with anyone at Dreamville.
Did you find it changing, creating R&B in such a heterosexual-dominated genre?
I didn’t find it challenging at all to create R&B in such a heterosexual-dominated genre. Music has no sex, honestly. Plenty of songs are relatable regardless of what pronouns used or what body parts mentioned. Also, the world is changing, and if anything, I’ve feel significant support from my LGBTQIA+ community. There is space for us all to share our gifts in this genre.
Chris Brown or Usher?
Damn, why you do that?!?! Ummm, I like them both, but since I have to choose, I’m going with Usher. That 8701 & Confessions album still slaps!!!
Luther Vandross or Freddy Jackson?
Luther all day. Both Luthers! L.O.L. That man can just flat out sing yo!
If you could go anywhere in the world to record your next project, where would you go?
If I could go anywhere in the world to record my next project, it would have to be Fiji. I would want to be on a private island (Laucala) with my producer and a few writers and vibe out for like two weeks. Being in such a space to take in the magnificent scenery and being in the present could influence some powerful musical creations.
What are your Top 5 R&B albums?
My Top Five R&B albums would be:
- Boyz II Men – II
- Usher – Confessions
- Floetry – Floetic
- Lauryn Hill – The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill
- Waiting To Exhale Soundtrack
I chose these R&B albums because each album helps me, encouraged me, and taught me something about myself or a situation during pivotal times. Listening to these albums is where I found healing and clarity. A song can play on any of these albums–reminds me of where I was and how I’ve grown.
LISTEN TO ‘WORDS FALL SHORT’
STAY SOCIAL WITH ONLYBENTON
www.onlybenton.com
IG: @onlybenton
Twitter: @onlybenton
Youtube: /onlybenton
Listen on Spotify
Listen on Apple Music
Feature image/Artwork: Photo: Jamison Harris | @jamisonoht
Promotional Image: Jamal Harrison
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