A veteran of the contemporary AAA /roots music scene, Ben has long fought for the recognition he deserves in the Canadian music industry. His 2005 award in the prestigious John Lennon Songwriting Competition, for his song Any Precious Girl, is evidence of his genius, his originality, and his tenacious ability to flawlessly pick his way to the top of the guitar heap while telling an absorbing story in words that only the craftiest of lyricists could pen. Raised in Western Canada, Ben began playing guitar in high school, and has been writing and performing ever since, touring festivals, small venues and living rooms across Canada. Ben performs live with his talented bass player/back up vocalist, Shantel Koening and often, while on the road pieces bands together from every town he visits. Often featured on te Canadian Broadcasting Corporation, Ben’s performances are energetic and humourous, and whatever the venue, he manages to connect with his audiences with a seldom duplicated sense of intimacy that draws the listener inextricably into the folds of his melodic story telling. While Ben's voice has been compared to Paul Simon, and his songwriting has been compared to Sarah Harmer and Greg Brown, his originality has truly made him a brilliant and outstanding gem in the diamond mine of the Canadian music scene. Ben has four cds available through Spirit River Distribution, and on his website at www.bensures.com . Now a well respected musician within the industry, he also appears on several compilation albums. If you have the opportunity to experience this unique performer, it should not be overlooked. And, if you’re unable to get out and see him, you’ll be astounded to know that he also makes house calls. If you ask Ben to play in your living room, he will deliver an unforgettable and intimate evening of story and song - and you don’t even have to change out of your pyjamas.