From Tolosa to the World: Dren Zabala’s Rise Through Resilience and Sound
It’s rare to meet an artist whose journey feels like a handwritten letter to everyone who ever dared to dream in silence.
A Musical Odyssey
Benet's initiation into music began in 2013, a gift of opportunity from a friend and a MacBook, spiraling into a fervent quest for sound mastery. His college years in the Bay Area, devoted to audio engineering, sound design, producing, and directing, culminated in a Bachelor of Science in Sound Arts. This educational groundwork laid the foundation for Benet's first album and the establishment of a recording studio with his band, The Whoadees. The studio quickly became a beacon for artists such as Nef The Pharaoh and Mani Draper, among others, highlighting Benet's influence in the industry.
Inspirational Muses and Musical Style
Tyler the Creator's "Bastard" was a turning point for Benet, reshaping his musical vision alongside influences from Childish Gambino, Tame Impala, and Kid Cudi. This rich tapestry of inspirations informs Benet's eclectic musical style, a heartfelt reflection of his life experiences, from triumphant love anthems to introspective 'Sad Boy' narratives.
The Art of Songwriting and Visuals
Benet's songwriting process is a dance between intuition and sound, allowing the instrumental to guide his lyrical journey. His visual artistry in music videos, influenced by cinematic giants like Wes Anderson and Quentin Tarantino, showcases his multifaceted creativity. Directing and shooting his own music videos, Benet encapsulates his musical essence through a visual medium, adding layers to his artistic expression.
Collaborations and Artistic Growth
The recent EP collaboration with Bay Area legend Mani Draper exemplifies Benet's versatility and commitment to growth. The project, inspired by hits like Pharrell and Jay- Z's "Frontin," underlines his ethos of musical exploration and breaking creative confines. Benet champions the idea of growth, pushing boundaries beyond the expected, driven by diverse musical tastes and the pursuit of innovation.
Live Performances and Connecting with Fans
Benet's love for live performances, including memorable shows at the Oakland Museum of California, embodies his connection with his audience. Performing in front of inspirations like Ryan Coogler, Benet treasures the mutual energy exchange with his fans, driving him to deliver impassioned performances that resonate deeply with audiences.
Conclusion
Benet's journey is a testament to the power of passion, creativity, and the relentless pursuit of artistic growth. Bridging genres and defying expectations, his work with The Whoadees and beyond illustrates a commitment to not just making music, but creating experiences that resonate with a broad spectrum of listeners. As he continues to evolve and inspire, Benet's message to his fans remains clear: Keep creating, embrace your uniqueness, and let creativity be your guide to happiness.
