Ben Chase
From the shores of Prince Edward Island to stages across the country, Ben Chase has been steadily carving out his place in Canadian country music with a sound that's entirely his own. We caught up with Ben to talk about life on the road, musical influences, and the gear that helps him stay connected night after night.
O
ne of country music's exciting new voices, Ben blends honky-tonk grit with breezy coastal influences in a style he proudly calls "Tiki Tonk." Inspired by his East Coast roots and a love of traditional country storytelling, his music strikes a balance between laid-back island energy and the heart of modern country.
Whether he's playing festival stages, theatres, or intimate acoustic shows, Ben's passion for connecting with audiences shines through in every performance. Keep reading to learn more about him.
What initially inspired you to pursue a career in music?
Growing up in PEI, music was a big part of the culture out there.
Can you share a memorable moment from your musical journey that has had a significant impact on you?
I think the highlight of my career was at Calgary Stampede a few years back I had pulled my 82 year old grandpa Alphy on stage to perform a song in front of a crowd of nearly 10,000+ when we opened for Sam Hunt. That moment sure will be hard to ever top.
What influences have shaped your style of music?
Growing up on an island and chill back vibes definitely shaped the upcoming music. I feel like I am really figuring out my lane now, and PEI has for sure influenced that.
If you could create a soundtrack for any historical event, which one would it be and why?
I’d soundtrack the California Gold Rush. A bunch of people leaving home with a half packed bag, a wild dream, and no real promise it was gonna work out. Just chasing something better out west. That already feels like a country song to me... dirt roads, heartbreak, hope, a little whiskey, coastlines and probably a few decisions their mothers wouldn’t be proud of.
If you could teleport to any concert in history, which one would you attend and why?
I’d teleport to Jimmy Buffett at Miami Marine Stadium in 1985. Floating stage, boats pulled up everywhere, people in the bay, and Buffett jumping straight into the water at the end of the show. I mean come on. That’s the dream right there. Songs, boats, salt air, and just enough bad decisions to make it legendary.
If you could collaborate with any artist, living or deceased, who would it be and why?
Jimmy Buffett, he had such an art to his songwriting. The way he just enjoyed life to the fullest, and had so much fun and creativity about everything he did. I wish I could have met him.
What's the most memorable feedback or reaction you've received from a fan?
Honestly, anytime someone tells me one of my songs got them through something real. Streams and numbers are cool, but when somebody comes up after a show and says, “Man, that song helped me through a breakup,” or “That one reminds me of home,” that sticks with me way more.
That’s the whole point of doing this.
How did your collaboration with Plunge Audio begin?
I was living in Calgary before Nashville, and all the cool kids had Plunge, so I took the plunge in 2019, haven't turned back since.
What specific features do you look for when choosing IEMs for your performances?
Clarity for sure, as a vocalist just being able to achieve a good clean mix is always a win!
What advice would you give to other musicians who are considering using IEMs for the first time?
My biggest advice for trying IEMs is give yourself a few shows to get used to them. I started out in PEI playing shows where I was lucky to even have monitors, so hearing my voice that clearly in my ears took some adjusting.
Less is more. Start simple: vocal, rhythm, and only what you actually need. And if you can, add a little crowd or room sound so it still feels like a real show.
