The Project
My name is Benjamin Fitzpatrick, known professionally as Big Ben, local MC, pianist, improviser and dedicated Edmontonian.
After much rumination, and some fifteen months of regular live performances, I've decided to do it: record something of substance, a seven track EP to be entitled White Trash Introvert. The EP's roster is nothing short of star studded; it's set to feature original compositions by local space-funk jazz-heads The NEK Trio (http://www.nektrio.com/) and be recorded by local MC/Producer/Multi-Instrumentalist Mitchmatic (http://www.mitchmatic.com/).
Big Ben is a purveyor of good vibrations, a lover of and a believer in the power of the spoken word. I strive to ignite both my tongue and your mind, creating a piece that at once honors and challenges the form. Wit, wordplay and the assuredly odd are to be found in abundance.
What I Need & What You Get
I'm hoping to raise $2000. Your contributions will go directly to the source, ensuring that the NEK Trio and Mitchmatic get paid for their involvement in this labour of love, and that the EP can be printed and mastered. Such amazing things can not be done on an artist's meager salary alone. I need your help!
Now, the perks of contributing to my campaign(of which there are many):
- For only $5, recieive a digital download of White Trash Introvert (which you will have had a hand in producing).
- For $10, receive a personalized expression of my gratitude mailed to your residence, in addition to a digital download of White Trash Introvert.
- For $15, receive a physical copy of White Trash Introvert, a personalized expression of my gratitude and a digital download.
- For $25, recieve thanks by name in the liner notes of White Trash Introvert, a physical copy, a personalized expression of my gratitude and a digital download.
- For $50, recieve a one hour introductory lesson on the fine art of rap, thanks in the liner notes of White Trash Introvert, a personalized expression of my gratitude and a digital download.
- For $150, I owe you the world. In its stead may I offer you a physical copy of everything I ever release physically (hip-hop or otherwise) and complementary admission to every Big Ben show ever. Of course, all this will be yours in addition to those juicy perks listed above.
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The Impact
I am, as mentioned earlier, a dedicated Edmontonian, an active proponent of my city's achievements and creative fertility. I would love nothing more than to aid in our revolution, to help create a scene in which other Canadian cities seek inspiration, a scene forged on a spirit of support and collaboration. And, besides all that, you'll be helping a boy follow his dream.
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Other Ways You Can Help
Just because you find yourself unable to contribute doesn't mean you should find yourself unable to help. Please share my campaign with friends, family, hip-hop aficionados, the wealthy and generous, white trash introverts and all those who you think it might interest. Any and all help is truly appreciated. And, dont forget to increase the peace.
BIG BEN
(Benjamin Fitzpatrick)
