Singer-songwriter
Benjamin Clementine is a fascinating presence; like a
clochard he takes his place behind the grand piano barefoot, to play like an angel subsequently. His music is a remarkable mix of raw groove, like Nina Simone’s, with the theatrics of early David Bowie shows. Clementine has his roots in Ghana and grew up in north London. One day he exchanged rainy London for an existence as a street musician in Paris. In a metro station, where he blew away all passers-by, he was subsequently discovered by a French record label. The Behind label released his EP
Cornerstone and since that time his name has been buzzing all over the place. BBC presenter and fellow pianist Jools Holland declared himself a fan and gave him a spot on his show. After that, a shower of compliments was his due, including one from Paul McCartney who encouraged him to pursue his musical career by all means.
