Mixing the Cultural Pot
Ben Jamn has spent over two decades crafting a sound that blends his love for 1980s rock and 1990s hip-hop with the reality of living in Appalachia. Being a white rapper from West Virginia brings unique challenges, especially when you factor in a thick accent that often gets scrutinized on social media. He embraces his roots by mixing traditional elements like banjos with modern 808 beats to create something that feels truly cultural. Ben explains that every place in America has its own version of a “hood,” even if people outside the state do not believe those areas exist in his home state.
“I don’t properly label myself as just a rapper anymore because I love doing all types of music.”
From Dial-Up to YouTube University
The road to professional musicianship was not easy, starting back in the days of dial-up internet and Limewire. In the early 2000s, Ben would record his tracks by playing a beat over old monitors and rapping into a live microphone while connected to AOL. He is largely self taught, having used what he calls “YouTube University” to master the technical side of mixing and mastering his own tracks. Over the years, he has produced thousands of songs, ranging from quick ideas jotted in his phone to deep dives into local history. He focuses on staying lyrical and on topic, which helps him manage his creative process.
“I used to always hit record on dial up AOL and play the beat over the old monitors and just rap over the beat playing live.”
Keeping it Real Through the Struggles
For Mr. Jamn, music is about addressing both the highs and the lows of his home state, including the opioid crisis and the water crisis. He is particularly careful when writing about tragedies like the Upper Big Branch coal mining disaster because he wants to pay homage to the lives lost rather than just making a song. His perspective on life changed significantly after a thirty foot fall from a ladder ended his twenty year career in construction. Now, he balances his music career with help from his new wife, who handles the business and paperwork side that he tends to dislike. He continues to perform at local venues and events like the Redneck Rave, aiming to eventually make music his full-time profession.
“I personally will always open the eyes and the ears to all of the highs and all of the lows that West Virginia has to deal with.”
Ready to hear the “Devil’s Banjo” for yourself and see Ben Jamn in action? Check out the full video interview to see the heart behind the music and catch an exclusive look at his latest work!
