Divine is thrilled to have been able to interview up and coming singer-songwriter Ben Hazlewood recently. Ben is an Australian-based artist, who recently paired his song “Darkest Hour” with a touching video full of different clippings from recent events in celebration of the LGBT community. It really sheds light on how love prevails.
Photo by Nigel Barker
As is the usual thing, we asked Ben some revealingly personal questions about himself before getting onto the big ones. This is what Ben had to say.
What’s your favourite pizza topping?
Pepperoni!
What is your most essential appliance?
Hair dryer (we know a lot of people who would feel the same on this one)
If you could ask your future self one question, what would it be?
I would apologise to my future self for all the stupid shit I did.
Do you love or loathe Harry Potter?
Love Harry Potter!
Which are cooler? Dinosaurs or Dragons?
Dragons
What song would you say best sums you up?
At the moment, the soundtrack to my life is “See Her Out (That’s just life)” – Francis and the Lights…
PS This could change tomorrow…
Now onto the serious stuff.
You first became noticed on New Zealand Idol in 2006, as we understand it you were 17 years old. How did you find being in the public eye at such a young age? Were there any lessons you learned back then you’d like to impart to other young people doing the same thing?
I learnt that shows like that are TV shows and meant to be entertaining for that purpose. They are not the be all and end all of your career, it’s just another stepping stone. Take the opportunity and use it to learn and grow as much as you can as an artist / performer.
Following your appearance on NZ Idol you then went on to compete in The Voice Australia, 2012. What differences did you find between the shows in terms of coaching, support and publicity?
I swore I would never do another reality singing show but after I met the team on The Voice they helped change my mind. The approach they had was a more inclusive, collaborative process rather than you simply being just another contestant.
I learnt a lot from the music team and my mentor, Joel Madden. It was a great platform for me to launch myself as an artist and I had great support throughout the whole process.
I think The Voice AU was definitely on a higher level than NZ Idol and being that it was the first season in Australia, there was a lot of hype and excitement based around it which led to some great opportunities after it finished.
You have recently released the video for “Darkest Hour” which actively supports the LGBT community and of course, your performance at the 2nd annual Australia LGBT Awards. You said
“This song is a reminder that through the darkness there is still light and strength within you to keep the fight alive. The video is a celebration of the LGBT community and everything that’s been achieved throughout the years working together to support each other as a community. A tribute to all the people that have paved the way for the future generations to grow and live with more love, understanding and acceptance.”
With you being so active within the LGBT community how else do you believe we can get this message across to today’s generation that tolerance and diversity is to be applauded?
At this point, all I can do is use my voice and music to support those who need inspiration and hope. One voice can be a powerful thing but many voices is a force to be reckoned with. If we stand together in the name of peace, love and acceptance then that can change a whole lot in this world.
You represented Australia at the International Music Festival in Spain last year with your and Mali Koa Hood’s duet “Paint Me Black”. How did it feel to be chosen to represent Australia and to then go on to win the competition?
Of course, any acknowledgement of my music is amazing. Its why I write music— to share with the world so it’s awesome that this song was received so well.
It was such a good time working with my friend Mali Hood on this track. We had such a great vibe creating this song and expressing the emotion behind it, so I am really glad to see that it translated to so many people.
Thanks to all who voted!!
Are there any words of wisdom you’ve give someone imparting on the same journey as you, trying to make it in the music industry?
Make sure you nurture, develop and harness your skills. It needs dedication and hard work. If your following your passion be persistent, be patient, be humble and make sure you enjoy the ride.
Finally, for our readers (myself included) who would love to see you perform live, where and when can we look out for you?
The main reason I do this is to perform live. It is the best high for me and why I create music. My team is currently working on a new touring schedule so hoping to announce that in the coming months.
Thanks so much, Ben, for answering these questions and we hope your career continues to snowball and you achiever everything you want for yourself.
Divine featured Ben in an earlier promotional post and you can check it out here.
https://divinemagazine.biz//ben-hazlewood-new-ep-eos-out-now/
Divine Magazine Music Review – Ben Hazlewood
Ben Hazlewood of Australia is making some serious waves with both his voice and dedication to the LGBT community. His latest track and video are a true testament to standing together no matter your creed or colour. ‘Darkest Hour’ is a truly inspirational mix of melody and vocals. The video, which features footage from the recent 2nd LGBT Awards ceremony march in Australia, is both heart-warming and just upbeat enough to encourage those to fight for what they believe in and who they are at heart. This artist is not new but up and coming, winning The Voice Australia and releasing a previous album called ‘Loveless’. He provides us with fresh, determined music which I admire from any artist for keeping up that effort in every musical bar.
His last album Vanta is a true masterpiece which echoes, in my opinion, the music of early Savage Garden’s Darren Hayes and Maroon 5’s Adam Levine. I may be biased in this opinion as Savage Garden were the first album I ever bought and owned and still features heavily in my own mixtapes.
The best track to experience this Maroon 5 and Savage Garden Mashup (Hazle Savage 5 if you will) is ‘Hideaway’ one that will get you to Car-eoke all over town. His voice is strong and uncompromising throughout the album with great backing tracks not in competition with his amazing voice but working with it to show this guy’s unrestrained potential. As a fan of many male vocal artists ranging from Alex Clare to Paolo Nutini I can be quite a hard customer to impress and Ben Hazlewood has certainly impressed me with the mixture of all my favourite artists in one clear cut voice and the music production is on point. One of his top tracks ‘Wanted’ is sure to get your heartbeat into cardiac arrest (In a good way!). The album is smooth and transitions from one song to another effortlessly, and remains consistent in the strength of voice and presence in your soul. I don’t want to give too much away about the album and what to expect as I feel you will need to find out for yourself through the many online profiles and channels such as Facebook, Twitter, Soundcloud and Spotify. This album is definitely worth the purchase. Also check out his website, benhazlewood.com for stunning merchandise along with the amazing artwork which is just a bonus with any musical purchase. Just look at that front cover. I hope to see Ben in the top charts in the UK very soon as he clearly deserves it.
G4mble
Music Reviewer – Divine Magazine
Here’s where you can find Ben
https://twitter.com/BenHazlewood
https://www.facebook.com/benhazlewood
https://www.instagram.com/benhazlewood
https://www.youtube.com/benhazlewood
Article courtesy of Ben and http://www.totalassault.com/
https://www.facebook.com/totalassault/
https://twitter.com/TotalAssault
image sources
- chitaliving: CHITA LIVING’s New Sofa Collection Brings Comfort and Style to Every Home
- Ella-Rosa’s-New-Single-FUN: Artwork by Hannah DeVries
- Amelie Lens: Photo Credit: Sam Neill
- Better Man: Jonno Davies and Robbie Williams as "Robbie Williams" in Better Man from Paramount Pictures.
- Kate-Hull: Photo courtesy of Andrea Costrino & Co. Portrait Photography
- milanis clark: Photo Credit: Zachariah Schmitt
- typify-demo03-23: AI chip artificial intelligence, future technology innovation
About the author
Things any business should know about the importance of team building
There are many different factors to consider for those who wish to manage a successful business. Quite often it can be what works best as rarely are two organisations identical. Having a strong infrastructure is certainly necessary which will include the best management of the finances, whether done by an in-house team or if bookkeeping and accountancy are outsourced. Expert departments with skills in digital marketing can give a business a cutting edge over its competitors if carried out correctly and in a cost-effective manner. Being in an ideal location can create the right impression when trying to attract customers and instill confidence in clients that the business is serious about its image and intends to take advantage of it. Then of course, its recruitment is vital as employees are the ones who can make all the difference, especially if […]
Melissa Furlotte Landscape Press Photo by Scratch Takes Productions / Editing by Sarah Thompson
Meet Melissa Furlotte
With roots in the enchanting landscapes of Gaspésie, her journey from piano lessons to creating soulful tunes is a testament to the power of following your passions. As you examine into her story, you'll find inspiration in her unique blend of fine folk music that captures the essence of her experiences. Get ready to be captivated by her artistry and the exciting projects she has in store for you! Early life and musical influences There's something magical about growing up in the picturesque region of Gaspésie. In her childhood town of Murdochville, Quebec, Melissa Furlotte found her musical footing playing piano and singing, captivated by a rich tapestry of popular, folk, country, and jazz music that shaped her early artistic identity. The landscapes and stories of her youth continue to inspire her as a songwriter today. Education and transition to […]
Kat Velasco Shares Fiery New Single “Burning Man”
Nashville-based Western pop artist Kat Velasco has released her powerful new single, “Burning Man,” a song that digs deep into themes of transformation, personal growth, and resilience. Inspired by the famed festival of the same name, Velasco’s latest track is a bold artistic evolution, fusing raw emotional energy with her signature mix of country and pop. “Burning Man” is now available on all streaming platforms. Produced in Nashville by Danny Zee and Cooper Galyon at Broken Door Studios, the song is as much a personal reflection as it is an anthem for anyone who has faced hardship and emerged stronger. The track is built around the metaphor of “burning” one’s past self to make way for new growth—a theme echoed in the radical self-expression of the Burning Man festival. Velasco opens up about the personal struggles and triumphs that inspired […]
Investment Property Insurance 101: The Coverage Options Every Real Estate Investor Should Know
Although real estate is a wise investment, it is also risky. Unexpected events can cause significant financial losses in any kind of natural disaster, accident, or tenant conflict. Investment property insurance then becomes really important. Protecting assets and long-term profitability depends on investors having appropriate insurance coverage. This article will break down the basics of investment property insurance, the different types of coverage, and why each is a must-have for new and experienced investors. Knowing these options will help you between a minor setback and a financial disaster. Why Investment Property Insurance Matters? Having investment properties is different from having a primary residence. When tenants occupy a property, the risk of damage, liability, and legal issues increases. Without enough insurance, landlords can incur big fees that eat into their profits or, in extreme cases, go bankrupt. According to an Insurance […]
Ian Abel Band’s “Stay Here” Explores Heartache and Hope
Ian Abel Band, led by internationally recognized guitarist Ian Abel, is making waves again with their newest single, "Stay Here," a bilingual Southern rock track that seamlessly weaves English and Portuguese lyrics. With a unique blend of classic rock’s raw power and Americana’s soulful storytelling, "Stay Here" captures the bittersweet emotions of love and loss. Inspired by Abel’s short but meaningful romance with a Brazilian woman, the song speaks to the longing that comes from separation. The heartfelt line, “Coitadinho de mim, afogando a saudade,” which translates to "poor me, I'm drowning in the sorrow of missing you," encapsulates the song's emotional core. This poignant reflection is matched by the song’s samba-infused melodies, giving "Stay Here" a cross-cultural flavor that sets it apart in the rock genre. Reflecting on the song’s origins, Abel shares, "It started out with a short […]
Comfort Meets Style: The Ultimate Guide to Choosing Guest Room Beds
With a wide array of options ranging from sofa beds and day beds to futons and murphy beds, each style offers unique benefits tailored to your space and guest needs. In this guide, you'll discover how to blend comfort and style, ensuring your guests enjoy a restful night while complementing your home's aesthetic. Let's explore the best choices for your guest room, so you can make informed decisions that enhance the overall ambiance. Key Takeaways: Space Efficiency: Consider beds that maximize space, like Murphy Beds or Fold-Out Beds, to create a functional guest room. Versatility: Opt for options like Sofa Beds and Futons that can serve multiple purposes, enhancing both comfort and style. Comfort Levels: Prioritize comfort with choices such as Air Mattresses and Day Beds that cater to different sleeping preferences. Understanding Guest Room Needs For creating a welcoming […]
Related
Jonno Davies and Robbie Williams as "Robbie Williams" in Better Man from Paramount Pictures.
Better Man | Teaser Trailer & Featurette Available Now
Directed by Michael Gracey, this cinematic portrayal explores Williams' extraordinary rise, fall, and resurgence in the music industry. With a focus on his unique perspective, you will discover the wit and resilience that have defined his career. Prepare to be enthralled as this film promises to deliver an intimate look at one of music's greatest entertainers. Michael Gracey directs Raechelle Banno on the set of Paramount Pictures’ BETTER MAN. Key Players Involved An exceptional team has come together for the film "Better Man," showcasing the talents of director Michael Gracey, known for his work on "The Greatest Showman." With a screenplay by Simon Gleeson, Oliver Cole, and Gracey, the project brings to life the story of pop superstar Robbie Williams. The executive producers include notable figures such as Robbie Williams himself, along with Paul Currie and Coco Xiaolu Ma, ensuring […]
Photo courtesy of Andrea Costrino & Co. Portrait Photography
Interview with Kate Hull, Stylist and Founder of Share Joy
Kate Hull is a sought-after expert, stylist and founder of Share Joy. Kate Hull and Share Joy are featured in national media. Her styling includes floral design, and her installations enhance and compliment any space. Her beautiful floral arrangements and designs have been showcased with the entertainment industry, corporations, nonprofits, weddings, events and more. We caught up with Kate Hull to discuss being an expert in the industry, her new creations, her brand Share Joy and more. Photo courtesy of Kate Hull You have experience creating stunning, unique flower arrangements and designs for clients in all industries. How did you know you were great at doing this? I have always had an appreciation for fresh flowers. The colors and simple beauty of what can be created with them have always been an extension of my soul. I started out creating […]
Unveiling the Woman Behind The Dinah: An Exclusive Interview with Mariah Hanson
It's not just a party; it's a movement if you've ever been to The Dinah, the biggest and longest-running LGBTQ+ event and music festival for queer women worldwide. And leading this ground-breaking event is none other than Mariah Hanson, the creative creator and producer who has spent the last thirty years reshaping the gay women's entertainment landscape. Discovering what makes Mariah Hanson such a groundbreaking influence in the LGBTQ+ community, we dig into the lady behind The Dinah in an exclusive conversation. With The Dinah, Mariah Hanson has genuinely created an empire, having started off modestly with a one-night event at a Palm Springs museum and now booking opulent venues at upscale hotels for over 15,000 guests. Katy Perry, Uh Huh Her & Mariah Hanson But Mariah is a visionary as much as a prosperous gay female businesswoman. Her instinctive […]
Photo Credit: Zachariah Schmitt
Broadway, TV, POP! Milanis Clark Making Waves Across Multiple Media
Milanis lights up the Broadway stage in popular musicals like a star. Both critics and fans give her great reviews for her amazing performances and strong vocals. Milanis has unbounded ability, whether she's showcasing her dancing skills or belting out show-stopping melodies. But Milanis doesn't stop there; she's also becoming well-known on the little screen. She is demonstrating that she is a force to be reckoned with in the television industry with appearances on well-known TV series and guest stints on talk shows. Watchers are drawn in and kept interested episode after episode by her charm and charisma, which light up the screen. Engaging multi threat entertainer Milanis Clark is already making rippling waves across the entertainment world. At just thirteen, Milanis is currently on tour internationally as one of the youngest background vocalists for a major icon ever, the incomparable Lisa […]
The Most Epic Party for Gay Women in Wonderland, Florida, Girls in Wonderland, Celebrates its 23rd Anniversary.
Girls in Wonderland, the biggest LGBTQ festivals in Florida, is returning to Orlando for its 23rd anniversary. The iconic event will take place at a brand-new location, TownePlace Suites Orlando/ SpringHill Suites by Marriott, May 30 through June 3rd, 2024. This year marks the 23rd Anniversary of the coveted event - a weekend long live music, performance and comedy experience celebrating the LGBTQ+ community and creating a safe space for all to enjoy and connect. Girls in Wonderland was founded in 2000 by the trio Amy Alonso, Alison Burgos and Yesenia Leon, the women behind Pandora Events. This powerhouse lesbian event production company from South Beach have created and produced some of the hottest LGBTQ+ soirées and music festival in the US including Girls in Wonderland (Orlando, FL), Shedonism (Las Vegas, NV), Aqua Girl (Miami, FL) among others. In a little over two […]
AI chip artificial intelligence, future technology innovation
Mars Attackers – the new movie out now
In a landmark development, the tech industry has unveiled an innovative solution that promises to revolutionize the way businesses operate. The breakthrough, dubbed "SyncPro", is a cutting-edge software platform designed to streamline communication and enhance productivity in the workplace. The innovation is here "We believe SyncPro will redefine the future of work" says John Doe, CEO of Tech Innovations Inc. "By leveraging advanced technologies, we're empowering businesses to adapt and thrive in an increasingly competitive landscape." SyncPro harnesses the power of artificial intelligence and machine learning to optimize workflows and automate routine tasks. Its intuitive interface integrates seamlessly with existing systems, allowing for effortless data synchronization across departments and devices. This enables real-time collaboration and decision-making, fostering a more agile and responsive business environment. The Code behind the innovation // This is an example code /* =================================== */ Additional functionalities […]
