Ben Harper’s music has not only touched countless
fans, but it has taken him around the world numerous
times. The effect of visiting different countries and
experiencing new cultures is evident in Harper’s
music, as it has evolved in his more than a decade of
recording.
Harper’s musical influences – folk, soul,
R&B, and reggae – are evident in his music.
As with most musicians, Harper’s love of music
began early. As a child, he learned the guitar and was
soon performing for audiences on a regular basis. Once
he had mastered the guitar, Harper set his sights on
the acoustic slide guitar; he would later become known
for the smooth music he created with his acoustic slide
guitar.
The Californian’s big break came in 1992 when
he signed a record deal with Virgin Records. It was
until two years later in 1994, however, that Harper’s
debut album hit store shelves. “Welcome to the
Cruel World” garnered plenty of critical claim
which was followed in 1995 with “Fight for Your
Mind.” Harper’s political beliefs were evident
in the album, and the album, like “Welcome to
the Cruel World,” received a warm reception from
critics and fans.
After his sophomore album, Harper brought a backup
band, the Innocent Criminals – Juan Nelson, Dean
Butterworth, and David Leach – into his fold,
and from then on, they would tour and record with Harper.
In 1997, “The Will To Live,” Harper’s
third album, became a hit with both college students
and the alternative crowd. In addition to recording
his own music, Harper appeared on the albums of such
prominent musicians as John Lee Hooker.
“Burn To Shine” was released in 1999, and
Harper officially hit the big time with such hit singles
as “Suzie Blue,” and “Steal My Kisses.”
Harper and the Innocent Criminals followed the release
of “Burn To Shine” with a successful world
tour. Ben Harper concert tickets were at a premium the
world over, solidifying Harper’s status as a bona
fide star.
Harper’s follow-up was the double album “Live
From Mars” in 2001, and two years later, he returned
with “Diamonds in the Inside.” Harper and
the Innocent Criminals’ latest double album, “Both
Sides of the Gun,” was released in early 2006.
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