Ben Westwood

Today Nick & Sue are joined by Sussex singer-songwriter Ben Westwood is back with his first new music in several years. His new single, soulful ballad Step Into The Light, is produced by Mark Edwards, and taken from Ben’s upcoming album We Are Human.

Filmed on the seafront of Ben Westwood’s hometown Eastbourne, Step Into The Light’s video reflects the song’s message of hope and optimism, featuring Ukrainian refugee and now Eastbourne resident, Pilates instructor Olga Litvinova.

Ben Westwood's entirely self-penned 11-track album showcases a unique style, blending soul and folk roots with blues and alternative rock - as if Leonard Cohen and Marvin Gaye had recorded an album together, according to Ben. His distinctive voice draws on classic influences - from the Beatles and 1960's folk to Motown soul.

The album combines love songs Step Into The Light and Save The Best For You with upbeat soul on When You’re Gone, and more reflective material such as the title track, We Are Human, which examines fears over the growth of AI, and gospel-style protest song, We Will Have Our Freedom.

Ben previously had success before the pandemic with his album Sing Like Your Life Depends On It, which dealt with his struggles through grief as a widowed single father, including songs such as Falling and Time Heal Me. A remastered version of Time Heal Me is included on the new album.

Ben has been writing songs since the age of 14 and studied music in London with respected artists Tom Baxter and Ben Cullum, brother of Jamie. He has played at venues including the Brighton Dome and Ronnie Scott's, and received airplay on BBC radio. Outside music, Ben is a college lecturer, published author and former journalist, appearing regularly on TV and radio.

“Straight from the heart #nofilter, this is music that is honest and unafraid.” – Camilla Lake, East Sussex Newspapers

INTERESTING FACTS ABOUT BEN WESTWOOD

• He was once arrested for robbery in London on a case of mistaken identity. He was released without charge (that’s his story anyway).
• He once sang in a gospel choir at Prince Charles’s Highgrove house. A picture of him meeting the Prince hangs in his parents’ toilet.
• He went to the same school as comedian Eddie Izzard but has never worn high heels. There’s a first time for everything though.
• He once got paid by mistake for an article written by the other Ben Westwood, erotic photographer and son of fashion designer Vivienne. He has yet to pay him back.
• He appeared on BBC talk show Kilroy to discuss drunken Brits in Greece, after reporting for the Daily Telegraph. He rarely drinks these days.
• He shook Tony Blair’s hand before he was Prime Minister. No matter how he tries, it just won’t wash off.
• He is an award-winning novelist and travel writer.