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ADDED --> (1) "Early Years" section, (2) "2019-Present: Solo Career" section. EDITED --> (3) "Degraw Fest" section. MINOR EDITS --> (4) Infobox: "Websites" (Added two more websites / changed names for clarity), (5) Discography section: Added "Valerie June / Little Wings" album (2019)
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* Blackbells
* Blackbells
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| website = {{URL|www.benriceproductions.com}}
| website = {{URL|www.benriceproductions.com|Ben Rice Productions}}<br />{{URL|www.benricemusic.com|Ben Rice Music}}<br />{{URL|www.degrawsound.com|Degraw Sound}}
}}
}}


'''Ben Rice''' is an American record producer, [[audio engineer|sound engineer]], [[mixing engineer|mixer]], songwriter, and musician. Rice owns Degraw Sound – a recording studio in [[Brooklyn]], [[New York (state)|New York]]. He is best known for his professional collaborations with musical artists [[Norah Jones]], [[The Candles]], [[Aoife O'Donovan]], Silya and the Sailors, and The Skins, as well as record producers [[Eddie Kramer]], [[Gus Van Go]], and Werner F.
'''Ben Rice''' is an American record producer, [[audio engineer|sound engineer]], [[mixing engineer|mixer]], songwriter, and musician. Rice owns Degraw Sound – a recording studio in [[Brooklyn]], [[New York (state)|New York]]. He is best known for his professional collaborations with musical artists [[Norah Jones]], [[The Candles]], [[Aoife O'Donovan]], Silya and the Sailors, [[Valerie June]], and The Skins, as well as record producers [[Eddie Kramer]], [[Gus Van Go]], and Werner F.

== Early Years ==
Fascinated by recording and songwriting, Rice began making 4-track recordings when he was twelve and landed his first studio job at the age of sixteen.<ref name="RiceBackground_1">{{cite web|last=H |first=Tom |url=https://www.soundthread.net/single-post/2018/08/05/Ben-Rice-on-The-Getaway-new-single |title=Ben Rice on Degraw Fest 2018 and new single 'The Getaway' |publisher=Sound Thread |date=August 6, 2018|accessdate=July 30, 2019}}</ref>


== Musical career ==
== Musical career ==
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Like Blackbells first release, this EP was a commercial success with musical features in USA Network's [[Necessary Roughness (TV series)|''Necessary Roughness'']] television drama (episode #308)<ref>{{cite web|url=https://fieldhouse-music.com/2013/08/05/blackbells-placement-in-necessary-roughness/|title= Blackbells Placement in Necessary Roughness |publisher=Fieldhouse |date= August 5, 2013 |accessdate=January 9, 2018}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.songonlyrics.net/soundtracks/necessary-roughness-season-3-soundtrack-list-2013.html |title= Necessary Roughness Season 3 Soundtrack List (2013) |publisher=Song on Lyrics|date= August 7, 2013 |accessdate=January 9, 2018}}</ref> and in the premier season of HBO's '''24/7''' sports show (episodes #1–2).<ref>{{cite web|url=https://fieldhouse-music.com/2012/09/07/blackbells-placement-in-247-chavez-jrmartinez-2/ |title= Blackbells Placement in 24/7 Chavez Jr/Martinez No. 2 |publisher=Fieldhouse |date= September 7, 2012 |accessdate=January 9, 2018}}</ref> Blackbells songs "''Bad Bones''" and "''Testify''" were featured in theses HBO and USA Network TV shows.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://showmusic.ml/?id=11875&Necessary-Roughness-S03E08-song-list-soundtrack-The-Game-s-Afoot |title= Necessary Roughness S03E08 Season 3 Episode 8 |publisher=Song on Lyrics|date= August 7, 2013 |accessdate=January 9, 2018}}</ref> Later, Rice and his other Blackbells bandmates appeared at the DeLuna Music Festival.<ref name=Degraw_0 /><ref name="Deli_1">{{cite web|url=http://nyc.thedelimagazine.com/7111/blackbells-releases-video-plays-deluna-music-festival-florida |title=Blackbells releases video + plays DeLuna Music Festival in Florida|work=The Deli Magazine |date=September 14, 2011|accessdate=January 9, 2018}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.pastemagazine.com/articles/2011/05/deluna-fest-announces-2011-lineup.html |title= DeLuna Fest Announces 2011 Lineup |work=In Weekly |date=May 31, 2011|accessdate=January 9, 2018}}</ref>
Like Blackbells first release, this EP was a commercial success with musical features in USA Network's [[Necessary Roughness (TV series)|''Necessary Roughness'']] television drama (episode #308)<ref>{{cite web|url=https://fieldhouse-music.com/2013/08/05/blackbells-placement-in-necessary-roughness/|title= Blackbells Placement in Necessary Roughness |publisher=Fieldhouse |date= August 5, 2013 |accessdate=January 9, 2018}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.songonlyrics.net/soundtracks/necessary-roughness-season-3-soundtrack-list-2013.html |title= Necessary Roughness Season 3 Soundtrack List (2013) |publisher=Song on Lyrics|date= August 7, 2013 |accessdate=January 9, 2018}}</ref> and in the premier season of HBO's '''24/7''' sports show (episodes #1–2).<ref>{{cite web|url=https://fieldhouse-music.com/2012/09/07/blackbells-placement-in-247-chavez-jrmartinez-2/ |title= Blackbells Placement in 24/7 Chavez Jr/Martinez No. 2 |publisher=Fieldhouse |date= September 7, 2012 |accessdate=January 9, 2018}}</ref> Blackbells songs "''Bad Bones''" and "''Testify''" were featured in theses HBO and USA Network TV shows.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://showmusic.ml/?id=11875&Necessary-Roughness-S03E08-song-list-soundtrack-The-Game-s-Afoot |title= Necessary Roughness S03E08 Season 3 Episode 8 |publisher=Song on Lyrics|date= August 7, 2013 |accessdate=January 9, 2018}}</ref> Later, Rice and his other Blackbells bandmates appeared at the DeLuna Music Festival.<ref name=Degraw_0 /><ref name="Deli_1">{{cite web|url=http://nyc.thedelimagazine.com/7111/blackbells-releases-video-plays-deluna-music-festival-florida |title=Blackbells releases video + plays DeLuna Music Festival in Florida|work=The Deli Magazine |date=September 14, 2011|accessdate=January 9, 2018}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.pastemagazine.com/articles/2011/05/deluna-fest-announces-2011-lineup.html |title= DeLuna Fest Announces 2011 Lineup |work=In Weekly |date=May 31, 2011|accessdate=January 9, 2018}}</ref>


Throughout the years with Blackbells and Surefire, Rice was often the [[lead vocalist|front-man]] featured in [[news media|news and entertainment media]], including interviews with [[Quiksilver]],<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BJt4-B3SaDk |title= Blackbells Interview |publisher=Quiksilver |date=September 3, 2011| accessdate=January 9, 2018}}</ref> a retail sporting company, and [[Last Call with Carson Daly]] – a [[late-night talk show]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://inweekly.net/wordpress/?p=7694 |title= NBC's Last Call with Carson Daly from DeLuna Fest Airing This Week |work=In Weekly |date=September 14, 2011|accessdate=January 9, 2018}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.nbc.com/last-call-with-carson-daly/video/blackbells/n4334 |title= BLACKBELLS: 11/4/11 |publisher= NBC |date=September 4, 2011|accessdate=January 9, 2018}}</ref> Rice established Degraw Sound, following Blackbells disbandment in 2011.<ref name="Degraw_0" />
Throughout the years with Blackbells and Surefire, Rice was often the [[lead vocalist|front-man]] featured in [[news media|news and entertainment media]], including interviews with [[Quiksilver]],<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BJt4-B3SaDk |title= Blackbells Interview |publisher=Quiksilver |date=September 3, 2011| accessdate=January 9, 2018}}</ref> a retail sporting company, and [[Last Call with Carson Daly]] – a [[late-night talk show]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://inweekly.net/wordpress/?p=7694 |title= NBC's Last Call with Carson Daly from DeLuna Fest Airing This Week |work=In Weekly |date=September 14, 2011|accessdate=January 9, 2018}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.nbc.com/last-call-with-carson-daly/video/blackbells/n4334 |title= BLACKBELLS: 11/4/11 |publisher= NBC |date=September 4, 2011|accessdate=January 9, 2018}}</ref> Rice established Degraw Sound, a recording studio, following Blackbells disbandment in 2011.<ref name="Degraw_0" />

=== 2018–Present: Solo Career ===

As a solo artist, Rice has released two singles - “''The Getaway''” and “''Autumn Days''” - to favorable reviews, drawing musical comparisons to [[Tom Petty]] <ref name="DegrawSolo_1">{{cite web|last= |first= |url=https://kingsofar.com/2018/08/20/ben-rice-the-getaway/ |title=Ben Rice: 'The Getaway' |publisher=KingsofA&R |date=August 20, 2018|accessdate=July 30, 2019}}</ref>, [[Ray Lamontagne]]<ref name="DegrawSolo_2">{{cite web|last=Donnelly |first=Jason |url=http://www.fouroverfour.jukely.com/playlists/new-music-friday-ears-beholder/ |title= New Music Friday Is In The Ears Of The Beholder |publisher=FourOverFour |date=September 21, 2018|accessdate=July 30, 2019}}</ref><ref name="RiceBackground_1">{{cite web|last=H |first=Tom |url=https://www.soundthread.net/single-post/2018/08/05/Ben-Rice-on-The-Getaway-new-single |title=Ben Rice on Degraw Fest 2018 and new single 'The Getaway' |publisher=Sound Thread |date=August 6, 2018|accessdate=July 30, 2019}}</ref>, [[Bon Iver]], and [[Iron and Wine]]<ref>{{cite web|last=Glenn|first=Jamie |url=http://www.elicitmagazine.com/ben-rice-the-getaway/ |title=Ben Rice Delivers Feel Good Love Track “The Getaway” |publisher= Elicit Magazine |date=August 2, 2018|accessdate=July 30, 2019}}</ref>. These singles focus on change - whether it happens externally in Central Park or internally within the artist.<ref>{{cite web|last=Frometa|first=RJ|url=https://ventsmagazine.com/2018/08/02/ben-rice-drops-new-single/ |title=Ben Rice Drops New Single |publisher= Vents Magazine |date=August 2, 2018 |accessdate=July 30, 2019}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last= |first= |url=https://glamglare.com/music/2018/09/21/song-premiere-ben-rice-autumn-days/ |title=SONG PREMIERE: Ben Rice – Autumn Days |publisher=Glam Glare |date=September 21, 2018|accessdate=July 30, 2019}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last= |first= |url=https://skopemag.com/2018/09/23/ben-rice-releases-single-autumn-days-out-now |title=Ben Rice Releases Single “Autumn Days” Out Now |publisher=Skope Magazine |date=September 23, 2018|accessdate=July 30, 2019}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last=Frometa |first=RJ |url=https://ventsmagazine.com/2018/09/24/brooklyn-based-producer-musician-ben-rice-releases-single-autumn-days/ |title=Brooklyn Based Producer/ Musician Ben Rice Releases Single “Autumn Days” |publisher=Vents Magazine |date=September 24, 2018|accessdate=July 30, 2019}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last=Rincon|first=Alessandra |url=https://www.thewildhoneypie.com/buzzing-daily/autumn-days-ben-rice/p37 |title=Autumn Days - Ben Rice |publisher=The Wild Honeypie |date=September 24, 2018|accessdate=July 30, 2019}}</ref>.


== Professional work, notable collaborations, and select discography ==
== Professional work, notable collaborations, and select discography ==
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His professional credits include [[Record producer|record production]], [[Audio engineer|engineering]], and [[Mixing engineer|mixing sessions]] for a variety of artists – with a focus on [[indie rock]], [[indie pop]], and [[Americana (music)|Americana]]. Some of his most notable work includes collaborations with artists [[The Candles]] (feat. [[Norah Jones]]), [[Aoife O'Donovan]],<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aUfiJK-ONJw |title= Aoife O'Donovan – "Fire Engine" live recording @ Degraw Sound |publisher= Youtube: Aoife O'Donovan |date=July 22, 2013 |accessdate=January 9, 2018}}</ref> [[The Districts]],<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.thewildhoneypie.com/videos/the-districts |title= Buzzsession: The Districts |publisher= The Wild Honey Pie |date=August 19, 2014 |accessdate=January 9, 2018}}</ref> the Skins,<ref name="Skins_1" /> Silya & The Sailors,<ref name="Degraw_3" /> Goldkey,<ref>{{cite web|last=Frometa |first=RJ |url=http://ventsmagazine.com/2017/03/08/interview-goldkey/|title= Goldkey Interview |work=Vents Magazine |date=March 8, 2017 |accessdate=January 9, 2018}}</ref> Reckless Sons,<ref>{{cite web|url=https://besttuna.blogspot.is/2009/02/?view=classic/|title= Album Review: Reckless Sons (Ben Rice, producer) |publisher=Best Tuna |date=February 27, 2012 |accessdate=January 9, 2018}}</ref> and [[The Jezabels]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.thewildhoneypie.com/videos/the-jezabels |title= Buzzsession: The Jezabels |publisher= The Wild Honey Pie |date=January 25, 2014 |accessdate=January 9, 2018}}</ref>
His professional credits include [[Record producer|record production]], [[Audio engineer|engineering]], and [[Mixing engineer|mixing sessions]] for a variety of artists – with a focus on [[indie rock]], [[indie pop]], and [[Americana (music)|Americana]]. Some of his most notable work includes collaborations with artists [[The Candles]] (feat. [[Norah Jones]]), [[Aoife O'Donovan]],<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aUfiJK-ONJw |title= Aoife O'Donovan – "Fire Engine" live recording @ Degraw Sound |publisher= Youtube: Aoife O'Donovan |date=July 22, 2013 |accessdate=January 9, 2018}}</ref> [[The Districts]],<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.thewildhoneypie.com/videos/the-districts |title= Buzzsession: The Districts |publisher= The Wild Honey Pie |date=August 19, 2014 |accessdate=January 9, 2018}}</ref> the Skins,<ref name="Skins_1" /> Silya & The Sailors,<ref name="Degraw_3" /> Goldkey,<ref>{{cite web|last=Frometa |first=RJ |url=http://ventsmagazine.com/2017/03/08/interview-goldkey/|title= Goldkey Interview |work=Vents Magazine |date=March 8, 2017 |accessdate=January 9, 2018}}</ref> Reckless Sons,<ref>{{cite web|url=https://besttuna.blogspot.is/2009/02/?view=classic/|title= Album Review: Reckless Sons (Ben Rice, producer) |publisher=Best Tuna |date=February 27, 2012 |accessdate=January 9, 2018}}</ref> and [[The Jezabels]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.thewildhoneypie.com/videos/the-jezabels |title= Buzzsession: The Jezabels |publisher= The Wild Honey Pie |date=January 25, 2014 |accessdate=January 9, 2018}}</ref>


=== Degraw Fest ===
In 2017, Rice hosted '''Degraw Fest''' – a music festival; the festival's lineup featured artists:<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.littlefieldnyc.com/event/1467737-degraw-fest-brooklyn/ |title= Degraw Fest |publisher= Little Field NYC |date=May 1, 2017|accessdate=January 9, 2018}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://bklyner.com/weekend-art-events-june-1-4-festivals-galore/ |title= Weekend Art Events: June 1 – 4: Degraw Fest |publisher= bklyner. |date=June 1, 2017|accessdate=January 9, 2018}}</ref>
Rice founded '''Degraw Fest''' in 2017 - a music festival which features artists who record at his studio: Degraw Sound<ref name="DegrawFest_1">{{cite web|url=https://www.littlefieldnyc.com/event/1467737-degraw-fest-brooklyn/ |title= Degraw Fest |publisher= Little Field NYC |date=May 1, 2017|accessdate=January 9, 2018}}</ref><ref name="DegrawFest_2">{{cite web|url=https://bklyner.com/weekend-art-events-june-1-4-festivals-galore/ |title= Weekend Art Events: June 1 – 4: Degraw Fest |publisher= bklyner. |date=June 1, 2017|accessdate=January 9, 2018}}</ref><ref name="DegrawFest_3">{{cite web|url=https://us.blastingnews.com/lifestyle/2018/07/degraw-fest-interview-with-event-organizer-ben-rice-002674263.html |title= Degraw Fest: Interview with event organizer Ben Rice |publisher= Blasting News |date=July 31, 2018|accessdate=July 30, 2019}}</ref>. The 2018 festival was featured in the [[New York Times]] - as a must see event.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.nytimes.com/2018/08/03/nyregion/new-york-today-best-picnics.html |title= New York Today: A Picnic Packing List |publisher= The New York Times |date=August 3, 2018|accessdate=July 30, 2019}}</ref><ref name="DegrawFest_6">{{cite web|last=Lello |first=Michael |url=http://highway81revisited.com/degraw-fest-year-two-brings-brooklyn-musicians-fans-together/ |title= Degraw Fest: In Year Two, Brings Brooklyn Musicians And Fans Together |publisher= Highway 81 Revisited |date=August 1, 2018|accessdate=July 30, 2019}}</ref>. Building on its prior success, the 2019 festival featured a series of performances at the [[Brooklyn Bridge Park]] (BBP) - hosted in partnership with the BBP Conservancy and Degraw Sound<ref name="DegrawFest_4">{{cite web|last=Wong |first=Pamela |url=https://bklyner.com/brooklyn-bridge-park-announces-20th-spring-summer-lineup/ |title= Brooklyn Bridge Park Announces 20th Spring/Summer Lineup |publisher= Bklyner |date=April 15, 2019 |accessdate=July 30, 2019}}</ref>. The Degraw Fest 2019 music series coincided with the park's 20th anniversary of hosting free programs. Over the years the Degraw music festival has featured artists including: AMFM, Bell the Band, Ben Rice, Common Jack, Eighty Ninety, Elliot and The Ghost, Fiama, Goldkey, GRITS, Kevin Daniel, Pearla, Queue, Sophie Colette, and Yella Belly<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.littlefieldnyc.com/event/1467737-degraw-fest-brooklyn/ |title= Degraw Fest |publisher= Little Field NYC |date=May 1, 2017|accessdate=January 9, 2018}}</ref><ref name="DegrawFest_2">{{cite web|url=https://bklyner.com/weekend-art-events-june-1-4-festivals-galore/ |title= Weekend Art Events: June 1 – 4: Degraw Fest |publisher= bklyner. |date=June 1, 2017|accessdate=January 9, 2018}}</ref><ref name="DegrawFest_3">{{cite web|url=https://us.blastingnews.com/lifestyle/2018/07/degraw-fest-interview-with-event-organizer-ben-rice-002674263.html |title= Degraw Fest: Interview with event organizer Ben Rice |publisher= Blasting News |date=July 31, 2018|accessdate=July 30, 2019}}</ref><ref name="DegrawFest_5">{{cite web|url=https://donyc.com/degrawfest |title= Degraw Fest: Elliot And The Ghost, Eighty Ninety, Queue, And More |publisher= Do NYC |date=June 3, 2017|accessdate=July 30, 2019}}</ref><ref name="DegrawFest_6">{{cite web|last=Lello |first=Michael |url=http://highway81revisited.com/degraw-fest-year-two-brings-brooklyn-musicians-fans-together/ |title= Degraw Fest: In Year Two, Brings Brooklyn Musicians And Fans Together |publisher= Highway 81 Revisited |date=August 1, 2018|accessdate=July 30, 2019}}</ref><ref name="DegrawFest_7">{{cite web|last= |first= |url=http://www.queensexaminer.com/view/full_story/27587989/article-Degraw-Fest-kicks-off-for-second-consecutive-year?instance=most_viewed |title= Degraw Fest kicks off for second consecutive year |publisher= Queens Examiner |date=August 1, 2018|accessdate=July 30, 2019}}</ref>.
*Elliot and The Ghost,
*Eighty Ninety,
*Queue,
*Bell the Band,
*Fiama,
*AMFM,
*Goldkey,
*Common Jack,
*Sophie Colette.


=== Notable collaborations and appearances ===
=== Notable collaborations and appearances ===
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* '''Release Date:''' September 9, 2005
* '''Release Date:''' September 9, 2005
* '''Record Label:''' Independiente
* '''Record Label:''' Independiente
* '''Rice Credits:''' [[Musician|Primary Artist]], songwriter, Guitar, Vocals, [[audio engineer|Engineer]]
* '''Credits:''' [[Musician|Primary Artist]], songwriter, Guitar, Vocals, [[audio engineer|Engineer]]
|-
|-
|'''2009'''
|'''2009'''
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* '''Release Date:''' April 28, 2009
* '''Release Date:''' April 28, 2009
* '''Record Label:''' Newkirk Records
* '''Record Label:''' Newkirk Records
* '''Rice Credits:''' [[Musician|Primary Artist]], songwriter, Guitar, Vocals, producer, [[audio engineer|Engineer]]
* '''Credits:''' [[Musician|Primary Artist]], songwriter, Guitar, Vocals, producer, [[audio engineer|Engineer]]
|-
|-
|'''2010'''
|'''2010'''
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* '''Release Date:''' February 9, 2010
* '''Release Date:''' February 9, 2010
* '''Record Label:''' Electric Western Records
* '''Record Label:''' Electric Western Records
* '''Rice Credits:''' Producer, [[audio engineer|Engineer]], Guitar, Vocals, ([[Customer|client, Degraw Sound]])
* '''Credits:''' Producer, [[audio engineer|Engineer]], Guitar, Vocals, ([[Customer|client, Degraw Sound]])
|-
|-
|-
|-
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* '''Release Date:''' February 1, 2010
* '''Release Date:''' February 1, 2010
* '''Record Label:''' [[independent music|Independent, self-released album]] [[Unsigned artist|(unsigned-artist)]]
* '''Record Label:''' [[independent music|Independent, self-released album]] [[Unsigned artist|(unsigned-artist)]]
* '''Rice Credits:''' [[Musician|Primary Artist]], songwriter, Guitar, Vocals, producer, [[audio engineer|Engineer]]
* '''Credits:''' [[Musician|Primary Artist]], songwriter, Guitar, Vocals, producer, [[audio engineer|Engineer]]
|-
|-
|'''2011'''
|'''2011'''
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* '''Release Date:''' October 11, 2011
* '''Release Date:''' October 11, 2011
* '''Record Label:''' [[independent music|Independent, self-released album]] [[Unsigned artist|(unsigned-artist)]]
* '''Record Label:''' [[independent music|Independent, self-released album]] [[Unsigned artist|(unsigned-artist)]]
* '''Rice Credits:''' [[Musician|Primary Artist]], songwriter, Guitar, Vocals, producer, [[audio engineer|Engineer]]
* '''Credits:''' [[Musician|Primary Artist]], songwriter, Guitar, Vocals, producer, [[audio engineer|Engineer]]
|-
|-
|'''2012'''
|'''2012'''
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* '''Release Date:''' February 27, 2012
* '''Release Date:''' February 27, 2012
* '''Record Label:''' [[independent music|Independent, self-released album]] [[Unsigned artist|(unsigned-artist)]]
* '''Record Label:''' [[independent music|Independent, self-released album]] [[Unsigned artist|(unsigned-artist)]]
* '''Rice Credits:''' [[audio engineer|Engineer]], [[Mixing engineer|Mixer]], ([[Customer|client, Degraw Sound]])
* '''Credits:''' [[audio engineer|Engineer]], [[Mixing engineer|Mixer]], ([[Customer|client, Degraw Sound]])
|-
|-
|'''2014'''
|'''2014'''
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* '''Release Date:''' May 13, 2014
* '''Release Date:''' May 13, 2014
* '''Record Label:''' Sony Records
* '''Record Label:''' Sony Records
* '''Rice Credits:''' Producer, [[audio engineer|Engineer]], [[Mixing engineer|Mixer]], ([[Customer|client, Degraw Sound]])
* '''Credits:''' Producer, [[audio engineer|Engineer]], [[Mixing engineer|Mixer]], ([[Customer|client, Degraw Sound]])
|-
|-
|'''2016'''
|'''2016'''
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* '''Release Date:''' December 16, 2016
* '''Release Date:''' December 16, 2016
* '''Record Label:''' The End / The End Is Here
* '''Record Label:''' The End / The End Is Here
* '''Rice Credits:''' Producer, [[audio engineer|Engineer]], [[Mixing engineer|Mixer]], ([[Customer|client, Degraw Sound]])
* '''Credits:''' Producer, [[audio engineer|Engineer]], [[Mixing engineer|Mixer]], ([[Customer|client, Degraw Sound]])
|-
|'''2019'''
|
'''[[Valerie June]]'''
|
* '''Album:''' ''Little Wing''
* '''Genre:''' [[Americana]]
* '''Release Date:''' April 12, 2019
* '''Record Label:''' June Tunes / Fantast / Concord
* '''Credits:''' [[audio engineer|Engineer]], [[Mixing engineer|Mixer]], ([[Customer|client, Degraw Sound]])
|-
|-
|}
|}

Revision as of 03:55, 31 July 2019

Ben Rice
Rice at Degraw Sound, Brooklyn, NY 2016
Rice at Degraw Sound, Brooklyn, NY 2016
Background information
BornBrooklyn, New York, United States
Genres
Occupations
Instruments
  • Guitar
  • bass
  • vocals
Years active2006–present
Labels
WebsiteBen Rice Productions
Ben Rice Music
Degraw Sound

Ben Rice is an American record producer, sound engineer, mixer, songwriter, and musician. Rice owns Degraw Sound – a recording studio in Brooklyn, New York. He is best known for his professional collaborations with musical artists Norah Jones, The Candles, Aoife O'Donovan, Silya and the Sailors, Valerie June, and The Skins, as well as record producers Eddie Kramer, Gus Van Go, and Werner F.

Early Years

Fascinated by recording and songwriting, Rice began making 4-track recordings when he was twelve and landed his first studio job at the age of sixteen.[1]

Musical career

2003–2009: Surefire

Rice formed the band Surefire with his childhood friends: Nicolas Panken (guitar), Jacob Sloan (bass), and Justin Aaronson (drums); he served as the band's lead vocalist, guitarist, and songwriter from 2003 to 2009.[2]

Early success

Fueled by their live shows, Rice's band built a cult-following on Myspace.

This led to notable press in publications, including the New York magazine.[3] Rice leveraged this publicity to secure a series of gigs with the Arctic Monkeys, The Bravery, Brendan Benson, Mando Diao, The Shore, The Sights, and The Subways.[4][5][6][7]

Surefire's sound was often compared to the music of Tom Petty;[3] however, Rice fused contemporary indie rock, 1960's blues rock,[8] and 1970s psychedelic rock[9] to produce his own unique, style of music. One music-critic noted that Rice's compositions were "quite distinctive...a purely personal musical reflection" of the eras,[10]; this musical review was echoed by other media outlets that often compared his musical-style to Petty, Coldplay, and even Cream.[11][12]

Rice's creative songwriting and compositions helped propel Surefire to stardom; before they were signed, the band was regularly selling-out shows at concert venues – including the Bowery Ballroom.[9][3][13]

Rice in studio with Eddie Kramer

Lizard King Records / Warner Music Group

Surefire's early success afforded them an opportunity to record a series of demos with renown, record producers Gus Van Go and Werner F.[14]

Impressed by these demos, Surefire's growing fandom, and their ability to sell-out venues, Lizard King Records founder and CEO Martin Heath signed Rice and the band to his label in early 2006, which already represented artists like The Killers, The Pierces, and Santigold.[15][16]

Shortly thereafter, the band again had the opportunity to record with the Gus Van Go / Werner F. team – creating an untitled-EP for Lizard King Records / Warner Music Group. Unfortunately, this EP was shelved by the record label and ultimately never released.[17]

Led by Rice, Surefire later recorded the track "Surrender" for the 2005 War Child (charity) compilation album: Help!: A Day in the Life. Other artists featured on this album included Coldplay, Gorillaz, Radiohead, Keane, and Damien Rice.[18]

Surfire LP and later years

Citing a difference in musical vision, Surefire left Lizard King Records in 2007 to independently record and release their first, full-length album.[15][11] Rice co-produced this self-titled album with legendary, record producer Eddie Kramer.[19][20][21] With the release of the record: Surefire, the band continued to tour until their disbandment in late 2009.[22]

2009–2011: Blackbells

Rice live with Blackbells

After Surefire, Rice fronted the indie rock band: Blackbells, whose sound was compared to British artists: The Verve and Oasis.[15] Rice produced two EPs with this group, and witnessed commercial success with musical features on CMJ College Radio, HBO TV, and the USA Network.

Blackbells EP

Rice produced the 2010 self-titled Blackbells EP.[15] This album quickly climbed the charts to reach No. 18 on the CMJ College Radio chart.[23]

During this time, Blackbells toured the United States and Canada and performed with artists Alberta Cross, Band of Skulls, Crash Kings, The Greenhornes, J Mascis, and Marcy Playground.[14][15][24] With the band, Rice made appearances at the 2010/2011 SXSW music festival,[25][26] showcased at Brooklyn-Vegan's 2010 "CMJ Showcase" (a music festival),[27] and played at the John Varvatos store in New York City.[28][29][30]

IxI EP

Later in 2011, Rice also produced Blackbells sophomore release: IxI EP.[24][31][32]

Like Blackbells first release, this EP was a commercial success with musical features in USA Network's Necessary Roughness television drama (episode #308)[33][34] and in the premier season of HBO's 24/7 sports show (episodes #1–2).[35] Blackbells songs "Bad Bones" and "Testify" were featured in theses HBO and USA Network TV shows.[36] Later, Rice and his other Blackbells bandmates appeared at the DeLuna Music Festival.[14][37][38]

Throughout the years with Blackbells and Surefire, Rice was often the front-man featured in news and entertainment media, including interviews with Quiksilver,[39] a retail sporting company, and Last Call with Carson Daly – a late-night talk show.[40][41] Rice established Degraw Sound, a recording studio, following Blackbells disbandment in 2011.[14]

2018–Present: Solo Career

As a solo artist, Rice has released two singles - “The Getaway” and “Autumn Days” - to favorable reviews, drawing musical comparisons to Tom Petty [42], Ray Lamontagne[43][1], Bon Iver, and Iron and Wine[44]. These singles focus on change - whether it happens externally in Central Park or internally within the artist.[45][46][47][48][49].

Professional work, notable collaborations, and select discography

Degraw Sound

Rice owns Degraw Sound – a recording studio in Brooklyn, NY.[50][51][52]

According to an interview by Mix magazine, Rice credits the success of his business to hard-work, long-hours, and advice given by his former-producer and manager Gus Van Go, who encouraged Rice to pursue a professional career in sound-production and studio-recording.[14]

At Degraw Sound, Rice is known to produce unique compositions by collaborating with the artist, rather than directing their musical-style.[53]

"Every artist and band is different. I don't come at anything from a ‘This is my production style’ approach. That only makes things boring, and even though it may save some time, it can actually sabotage a project," says Rice. "Because every project has its own quirks, you have to be willing to change accordingly and pick up on what the artist or band needs. Some will come into the studio with very specific ideas, and some will say they know what they want to make a record but don't know the extent of what they need in order to reach their goals. It's my job to get to know the client, figure out what's needed, and be willing to jump in and offer creative input to benefit the project."

— Ben Rice, Mix magazine (interview)

His professional credits include record production, engineering, and mixing sessions for a variety of artists – with a focus on indie rock, indie pop, and Americana. Some of his most notable work includes collaborations with artists The Candles (feat. Norah Jones), Aoife O'Donovan,[54] The Districts,[55] the Skins,[56] Silya & The Sailors,[51] Goldkey,[57] Reckless Sons,[58] and The Jezabels.[59]

Degraw Fest

Rice founded Degraw Fest in 2017 - a music festival which features artists who record at his studio: Degraw Sound[60][61][62]. The 2018 festival was featured in the New York Times - as a must see event.[63][64]. Building on its prior success, the 2019 festival featured a series of performances at the Brooklyn Bridge Park (BBP) - hosted in partnership with the BBP Conservancy and Degraw Sound[65]. The Degraw Fest 2019 music series coincided with the park's 20th anniversary of hosting free programs. Over the years the Degraw music festival has featured artists including: AMFM, Bell the Band, Ben Rice, Common Jack, Eighty Ninety, Elliot and The Ghost, Fiama, Goldkey, GRITS, Kevin Daniel, Pearla, Queue, Sophie Colette, and Yella Belly[66][61][62][67][64][68].

Notable collaborations and appearances

After producing Reno Bo's album: Happenings and Other Things (2009), Rice briefly toured with the Nashville-based rocker to promote the new record; this collaboration marked the first time that Rice produced an album, where he was not the primary artist.[69]

Rice also produced, engineered, and mixed The Skins debut EP.[56] Later, he engineered The Skins' single, Rude Girl, which was produced by Michael Einziger and Chad Hugo, as part of an album distributed by Republic Records.[70][71] In 2014: Rice produced, engineered, and mixed the full-length album Unanchored' (Sony/RCA) for Norwegian artist: Silya & the Sailors. Silya's single, Sucka, charted at #1 on iTunes in Norway.[51][72]

Later, Rice produced The Candles: 2016 Matter + Spirit album, which featured the guest vocals of singer/songwriter Norah Jones.[51][73][74][75]

Select discography

Year Artist Name Release Details
2005

Surefire + Various Artists

  • Album: Help!: A Day in the Life
  • Genre: Indie Rock
  • Release Date: September 9, 2005
  • Record Label: Independiente
  • Credits: Primary Artist, songwriter, Guitar, Vocals, Engineer
2009

Surefire

  • Album: Surefire
  • Genre: Indie Rock
  • Release Date: April 28, 2009
  • Record Label: Newkirk Records
  • Credits: Primary Artist, songwriter, Guitar, Vocals, producer, Engineer
2010

Reno Bo

  • Album: Happenings and Other Things
  • Genre: Pop Rock
  • Release Date: February 9, 2010
  • Record Label: Electric Western Records
  • Credits: Producer, Engineer, Guitar, Vocals, (client, Degraw Sound)
2010

Blackbells

2011

Blackbells

2012

The Skins

2014

Silya & The Sailors

2016

The Candles, feat. Norah Jones

2019

Valerie June

References

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  3. ^ a b c Bernard, Sarah (2003). "Because at Least One Person on This Page Will Be Justly Famous by 2010 (#4 – Ben Stapelman, 19, rock singer)". New York. Retrieved January 9, 2018.
  4. ^ "Surefire, biography". Last.fm. April 2, 2012. Retrieved January 9, 2018.
  5. ^ "Kapow! playing w/ Surefire/Arctic Monkeys". BrooklynVegan. November 15, 2005. Retrieved January 9, 2018.
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