Scott Benjamin

Scott Christopher Jensen, aka Scott Benjamin, was first exposed to the culture of roots reggae music during a visit to Jamaica in 1986. Already inspired by reggae greats like Bob Marley, Ras Michael, and Dennis Emmanuel Brown prior to his visit, spending time on the island further sparked his interest in the culture, particularly in the Rastafarian movement.An accomplished guitarist – he's been playing since age 9, and could read music and play bass, as well – his exposure to roots artists, and to the vibe of the islands, began the journey that would eventually lead him to become a reggae recording artist, himself.
A trained instrumentalist, having graduated with a Professional Musicians Degree from the Musicians Institute in Hollywood, California, Scott has performed with a number of renowned artists. He has graced the stage with Ras Michael, Haile Israel, Sangie Davis, Jah Faith, Jah Mali, Jah Mel, Bongo Hermon and has opened for Eek and Mouse and Frankie Paul, amongst others. Both as a musician and singer with the 12 Tribes of Israel Band in California, and as a solo artist, Scott has performed at various stage shows, the Hard Rock Café in Newport Beach, the Dub Club in Los Angeles, and The Drink in Ventura.
Scott’s first album release, We are Jah People, features some of the greatest artists in reggae history. From the legendary Dean Fraser, Earl Chinna Smith, and Sly Dunbar, to Horsemouth Wallace, Albert Malawi, Axeman, Cliff Bond, O'zoune, Bopee, Dalton Browne, Glen Browne, Sangie Davis, Chris Meredith, Bagga"Judah"Walker, Robbie Lyn, and the Daffodil's, the smooth melodies and rich rhythms are sure to delight even the pickiest reggae connoisseur.
His conscious lyrics pertaining to his faith as a Rastafarian and member of the 12 Tribes of Israel, and his personal experience in reading the Bible, developed songs like the title track We are Jah People, All Day Long, and I see A Vision. The single All Day Long was released in May of 2006, followed by Praise Jah Some More in July of 2006, and Livity in January of 2008 on the Orthodox Muzik label, the international label of the 12 Tribes of Israel organization. Scott explained: “Orthodox teachings are the roots of all the songs – read a chapter a day, and follow His Majesty’s teachings.”
Through his Smokin Scotty Dread Publishing and Smokin Scotty Dread Music, Scott has served as an executive producer for the up and coming We Are Jah People. A remarkably well-rounded artist, he also wrote the lyrics to every track and arranged his own instrumentals. We Are Jah People is being recorded in Jamaica at Harry J's studio and TuffGong also produced by Sangie Davis.
This multitalented orthodox roots reggae artist is one to be on the lookout for. With his smooth style and conscious lyrics, coupled with the legendary talent joining him in the feat, Scott Christopher Jensen’s first LP release will prove to be a historic experience.