Today, we’d like to introduce you to Ben McEntire. Ben was introduced to us by the brilliant and talented Ceylin (Balkon Pokes).
Ben, can you walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
I grew up singing and acting as a child. I played trombone, percussion and a bit of piano throughout school, which really opened up my exploration of musical styles across the world. I have so many people to thank for teaching me the value of expressing yourself through art, whether you’re performing on a stage or writing on a piece of paper at home. Art is a means of exploring and communicating with yourself as well as your surroundings.
The artists that I learned from throughout my life shaped how I approach performing and creating music. My uncle Graham Smith, an actor and musician, showed me what it looked like to fully immerse in one’s artistic pursuit. While playing, I often find myself mentally preparing for the next moment or reflecting on what was just played. But, being present for every moment and letting my mind go is when I reach the most fulfilling state of being. It’s meditative and surreal. I see similarities between my musical experience and the art of tattooing with balkon.pokes because both capture a lived sensory engagement.
Please talk to us about your music.
My most recent projects are with the band ‘Frute’ (Atlanta) and Rachel Despard (NYC). I am currently working on new albums with both artists that will be released on Spotify in spring 2024. I’m gradually working on a debut solo record and I have been enjoying working on singles with a variety of songwriters in Atlanta and Los Angeles as well.
I will be on tour with Frute this fall (NC, SC, GA, AL, LA, TX) and will be playing a musical theatre showcase for actress Noelle Cornelius in October (NYC).
I have started making short drumming videos on Instagram on TikTok, but my heart is in recording and performing new music. It’s a special feeling even if it’s just one person boogieing down to the music you’re playing. I’m grateful to be on any stage, even if there’s just one person out there. I’m glad they messing with yours truly.
Ceylin (Balkon Pokes) has been a great friend to us and I know you’ve got a great relationship as well. Maybe you can tell our audience a bit about Balkon and your experience with them.
I got my first balkon.pokes tattoo at a Melting Garments popup event in fall 2021. I got a matching tree with my brother Cam, who introduced me to Ceylin. Since then, I have gotten 4 other pieces and want at least 15 more. Once I hit 20, I think I’m going to ask to be paid per hour when I walk in public. I’m a walking balkon.pokes advertisement.
Getting tattoos from Ceylin has changed my perspective on body art and really made me appreciate the experience just as much as the piece itself. The relationship you have with the artist, or even just the interaction you have in that moment, makes that tattoo a time stamp and a memory that you hang on to forever. The reason why my balkon.pokes tattoos are my favorites are 1. Because they’re unique and beautifully made 2. Because she creates a memorable ambiance through her choice of good music, candles and incense, and natural lighting, as well as welcoming new friends that come by to hang out. She treats every tattoo with the same patience, care and focus that make each piece her very best work. Ceylin makes the experience a piece of art in itself and that’s very special to have a snapshot of that moment. That’s kinfolk right there.
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ben_mcentire/
Image Credits
Lane Jackman (@lanejackman) Everett Zuraw (@thatezguy) Allie Andrews (@AlliesgatorPhotography) Jake Vanaman (@playthatjazz)
