Bentley's a rhythm ace - borough music maestro mingles with the stars - The Solihull Observer

Bentley's a rhythm ace - borough music maestro mingles with the stars

Solihull Editorial 20th Aug, 2015 Updated: 21st Oct, 2016   0

HE’S WORKED with the likes of Madonna, will.i.am and Ariana Grande, re-mixing their work to critical acclaim.

But now Solihull music artist Bentley Jones is ready to take the plunge into the British music industry with his solo work.

The 30-year-old is already a massive superstar in Japan, where he even has paparazzi following him, checking his every move.

But he can still walk down Solihull High Street un-noticed, as his fame is so far just his name in the UK.




All of that could be about to change for the 30-year-old, who has made that name operating out of a studio in his garage, as he releases his debut UK album later this year.

After quitting college at the age of 17, Bentley used his grandfather’s – who sadly passed away when Bentley was only 19 – inheritence to convert his mum’s garage into a full time music studio.


Speaking to the Observer this week, Bentley talked about how he started off in the industry, how he got his breaks and about his inspirations and aspirations.

He said: “I left college when I was 17, though to be honest I’m not the best at remembering dates from when I was younger, and got my first contract within a year.

“I started by remixing music and sending my work to companies in the hope to hear back from them.

“Then a promotional company based in London got in touch and offered me a contract to produce remixes for them.

“I was using this to help promote famous artists albums.

“I’ve worked for the likes of Katy Perry, Iggy Azalea and Rita Ora, though I’ve not personally met them I have hung out with Pharell Williams in Japan which was pretty cool.”

Despite being relatively unknown in his home country, Bentley is treated like a rock star in Japan by the fans who adore his remix work.

He has frequently been in the Japanese charts and is even treated like a celebrity in the country.

He added: “I started collaborating with Japanease artists in 2008, I loved it and really appreciated the opportunities I was given.

“Whenever I go to Japan I’m stopped by people in the street asking for photos – the local press even followed me around and noted down what restaurants I ate at, what karaoke bars I went to – it was very surreal but I’m used to it now.”

Speaking about his UK solo career and new album release Bentley said it’s hard to predict the future but does appreciate how lucky he is.

He added: “I’ve had some crazy experiences and an amazing journey throughout my career so far.

“My good friends and amazing family have been very supportive and I can’t wait for this year as they will finally be able to see my work for themselves.

“I’ve already received a lot of press attention so it’s nice for my family to see my work in the flesh and not over the internet.”

Bentley’s debut UK album – The Prequel – will be released later this year.

To find out more visit www.bentleyjones.com

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