ARTIST BIO

Ben Freeman's music is for people who write long letters, and people who keep them. Curating memory, feeling, and sound, the queer, Brooklyn-based singer-songwriter writes slow-burning, harmonically inventive songs at the intersection of folk, soul, and pop, with a touch of drama and a lot of care. Think Joni Mitchell at a dive bar, with Stevie Wonder's vocal stylings and a tarot deck on hand. Find him somewhere between a whisper and a wail.

The 2024 recipient of an annual prize from the New York Songwriters’ Circle, in 2023 Freeman rolled out a set of retro-inspired alternative R&B/soul singles, produced by Jackson Hoffman. These songs, “Baby Mine,” “Curiosity,” and “Long Distance” (a duet with fellow indie artist Nora Rothman), evolved Freeman’s sound in a pop-focused direction while retaining the intimate and introspective quality that is his signature. Recent years have also seen Freeman focus on his live set, including shows at Pete’s Candy Store, The Bitter End, Sofar Sounds, Rockwood Music Hall, and a CreativeMornings event at the National Arts Club in Gramercy Park. Freeman also sold out a set of one-of-a-kind vinyl singles recorded live in the studio at Leesta Vall Sound Recordings in Brooklyn.

This summer he's releasing a reimagined and completely re-recorded tenth anniversary edition of his debut EP, Providence. Same songs, more lived-in voice and sense of self. He plans to release his second full-length album next year. A theater artist, ritual leader, and facilitator outside of his music practice, Freeman brings a sense of ceremony and community participation to his shows.