Today we’d like to introduce you to Mike Benj.
Hi Mike, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
My journey is quite unique, but it serves as a powerful reminder that anything is possible with passion, persistence, and the right connections. My mother bought me my first drum kit when I was just three years old, and I’ve been playing ever since.
In my early years, I attended a program in Bridgeport, CT called Neighborhood Studios for the Arts. It was there that I met several key mentors who would have a lasting impact on my path — Frank Derico, Nate Barnes, and Marcus Allen. Their guidance was instrumental in helping me make the decision to apply to, and eventually attend, Berklee College of Music.
After graduating from Berklee, I made the move to Los Angeles in 2022 to pursue a career focused on touring, recording sessions, and music production. Not long after settling in, I had the opportunity to connect with the team at Sony Electronics and Sony 360 Reality Audio. Collaborating with the Sony family has been nothing short of incredible, and has opened doors I couldn’t have imagined.
As my career progressed, I began working with various record labels, including Red Bull Music, Position Music Group, UPMG, and Universal Music Group (UMG). One standout moment was contributing to a record with UPMG that was featured on NBA 2K23: Kobe Edition — an absolutely surreal experience and a personal highlight.
In terms of performance, I’ve had the privilege of playing drums for some incredible artists, including Grace VanderWaal, Blackway, and Gym Class Heroes — to name a few. Each experience has added depth and meaning to my journey as a musician.
If there’s one key factor I can credit for my growth in Los Angeles, it’s the power of networking. Understanding how to communicate effectively, recognizing the importance of meaningful conversations, consistently following up, and most importantly, offering value — these are the skills that have truly helped me build a career and community in this city.
These are the principles I attribute to any success I’ve had while living and working in Los Angeles.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It hasn’t all been smooth sailing. There were moments when I found myself asking, “Why am I really doing this? What’s my true purpose?”
Looking back, those moments of doubt were actually pivotal. They forced me to pause, reflect, and realign with my goals. They taught me the importance of staying the course, maintaining focus, and reaching out to mentors or peers who have walked a similar path. It’s often the challenges — the seasons of uncertainty — that truly prepare you for the unpredictable nature of this industry. When things don’t go your way, it’s your ability to adapt, to pivot with intention, that makes the difference.
Some of the struggles I encountered early on included adjusting to the physical landscape of a new city — understanding the rhythm of the scene, knowing where to be and when, and navigating how I fit into the broader music ecosystem here in Los Angeles. Finding that sense of place, both geographically and artistically, was a process that required patience, observation, and humility.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I’m a drummer and music producer with a deep passion for music creation. While I have roots in various styles, I intentionally avoid confining myself to a single genre. Music is vast, and I’ve always believed there’s value I can bring to any idea — regardless of its stylistic boundaries.
Although I may not be known for one specific sound or signature, what people tend to recognize me for is simply being a musician — someone who shows up, contributes authentically, and brings creative energy to every project.
One of my proudest accomplishments to date has been working with the Sony team. Since the very beginning, they’ve embraced me as part of their family. That relationship has not only elevated my career but also reminded me of the importance of meaningful, collaborative partnerships in this industry.
Can you share something surprising about yourself?
Something that often surprises people is my love for football. I played throughout high school and was seriously considering pursuing a collegiate career in the sport. For a while, it looked like that might be the path I’d follow. But ultimately, music pulled me in a different direction, and I chose to attend Berklee instead.
Though I didn’t pursue football professionally, the discipline, teamwork, and competitive mindset I developed on the field have absolutely carried over into my music career. It’s a part of my background that continues to influence how I approach collaboration, performance, and the drive to keep pushing forward.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mikebenjmusic/?next=%2F
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mike-benj-b6352a57/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@MikeBenjMusic
- Soundcloud: https://soundcloud.com/mike-benj
