Ben Tankard - The Minstrel

Ben Tankard is far more than a great jazz keyboardist. As the first prominentinstrumentalist to marry the inspiration of Gospel with the freedom of jazz, he is one of the few figures in popular music who can truly be called an innovator. Over 10 years and as many albums, Ben has explored a broad and exciting expanse of musical terrain. And on his latest release, “The Minstrel,” Ben draws on the best of his decade of musical adventure to create the album of a lifetime.

“This record takes me home to my roots … instrumental Gospel/jazz,” says Ben. “It's what I'm known for and do best. I feel like I’m at peace with myself that only comes with experience and maturity -- spiritually and musically. I played only what I believed God gave me to play … nothing more, nothing less.”

“The Minstrel” finds Ben weaving a rich tapestry with his trademark mix of Gospel, jazz, contemporary R&B and pop, and standouts are many. On “U Belong to Me” Ben lays engaging piano licks over a percolating, punchy rhythm section, tied together with a vocal hook line that conveys a simple but profound message of reassurance. The song is an anthem to all who have worried about their financial situation and reassures that God will meet all our needs.

The lush, ethereal orchestration and arrangement of “Eden,” are coupled with an unforgettable, mesmerizing melody are as stunning as splashes of color on a painter’s canvas.

“This is a picture of paradise,” says Ben. “Walking and talking with God, in a place where everything is fragrant and refreshing … crystal clear waterfalls and lush green hills. It's a portrait of the richness and joy of the presence of God.”

“911” adds vocals to Ben's powerful music, laying a gentle veneer over an urgent, impassioned lyric and a groove. “There are times when we can't help but feel this world is going crazy,” Ben explains, “…amidst what Scripture refers to as 'Wars and rumors of wars.' This is a cry to the Lord to send His peace down. 911! Emergency! I need You right now!”

Ben has a ready explanation, for those who may be uncertain of how instrumental music can still convey a definitive Gospel message, “I am a Christian and I am a musician,” he says. “A Christian ‘C’ note sounds the same as a non-Christian ‘C’ note. Technically, the music is the same. But when the musician is a Christian, then God's Spirit and power is carried through the music. The musician and the music become vehicles of God to love, save, heal and deliver.”

Ben's own journey began in Daytona Beach, Florida, where he was born and raised the son of a pastor and a missionary. While his musical nurturing as a child was strong, his realization of his relationship with Christ, as well as his prodigious talents on the piano, didn't come until his early adulthood. His talent came to him almost miraculously after a church revival service.

Shortly after, Ben began a successful music career and in 1989 he released his debut album, “All Keyed Up.” Since that time, Ben has gone on to garner numerous Stellar, GMWA and Dove Awards, as well as two Grammy nominations, and remains a constant presence at the top of the Gospel charts. His fans range the musical spectrum from jazz and Gospel to pop and contemporary Christian.

“When I first started my career in music, I was the freshman who wanted to slam-dunk every time I got in the game,” Ben recalls with a chuckle. “I wanted to showcase and make the front page for God! But the more I've gotten to know Him and the longer I've walked on this path, He's changed and matured me. The end result is that the ministry has also matured and changed. Every day He gives me more insight into His Word. As my relationship with Him grows, so does my faith.”

Along with his continued roles as a popular recording and performing artist, and a successful producer, among whose hit clients include Yolanda Adams. Additionally, Ben will soon be the Pastor of his own Word of Faith church in Nashville.

But whether touching hearts with gorgeous ballads, kicking up dust with a touch of funky Gospel/jazz, or preaching the Word from an actual pulpit, Ben Tankard is still doing what he has always done best: taking the love of God to real people in the real world.