The Ben

Benjamin Mugisha, known professionally as The Ben, is a Rwandan singer-songwriter born on January 9, 1987. He rose to prominence for his smooth vocals and soulful Afrobeat– and R&B-influenced sound. In 2010, The Ben moved to the United States, where he began expanding his international reach by collaborating with Detroit-based hip-hop artist Mike-E Ellison. His growing influence led to an invitation to perform at the United Nations headquarters. In October 2012, he released the hit single “I’m in Love,” which was so impactful in Rwanda that it prompted the introduction of a new category at the Salax Music Awards—Best Music Artist in the Diaspora—making him the first-ever recipient of the honor. In 2021, The Ben continued to build on his continental presence by teaming up with Tanzanian superstar Diamond Platnumz for the song “Why,” which was directed by renowned Rwandan music video director Julien Bmjizzo. Through his heartfelt music and international collaborations, The Ben has established himself as a major figure in East African music.