We recently connected with Benjamin May and have shared our conversation below.

Benjamin, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. We’d love to hear about a project that you’ve worked on that’s meant a lot to you.

My music Project -Lantern- has definitely been the most meaningful project I’ve worked on. It’s basically my most vulnerable expression that delves into topics such as trauma from my terrible parents, breakups, true love, sex, to finding joy and contentment in nature and myself. My genre is an eclectic amalgamation of every genre that’s moved me into the same feeling my music takes me into. -Lantern- had to be the moniker I used but too many artists already hold that name so I added the hyphens before and after to make it distinguished. -Lantern- comes from the lantern that The Hermit in Tarot holds. Inside his lantern is the seal of Solomon. In the history of occult the Seal of Solomon is the divine light from within yourself that you use to help guide yourself through complete darkness. Darkness will always be there, and the light you hold is the light that allows you to live. I aim to express my personal experiences and thoughts in my songs but in a way that allows the listener to really sit back and begin to feel something similar about their own life. Music has always been that for me so naturally I need my music to be the same for others.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

I’m a person who has lived a strange but full life and have paid deep attention to the spiritual and emotional side of living in this reality. I’ve been changed because of music and have allowed my mind to open up, become close to those were the same, and through my own efforts and experiences, have come to accept and understand many beautiful truths. I make this music to express this exact thing. More or less life is beautiful. Within that truth are a million other things that one doesn’t understand until it comes full circle. Then you can sit back and find it wonderful and gorgeous. I make this music for myself and the feelings I have, but also for those who are the same.

What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?

The simple truth that I have found/given a way of showing the world who I am unequivocally, infallibly, and confidently. Most importantly in my own way. I can sit and have a catalog of music to be proud of that are basically little feeling time capsules.

How can we best help foster a strong, supportive environment for artists and creatives?

I think it’s important to just give artists a chance. I mean really take a moment longer than usual to really dig deep into what this art does for you. Not all art will be relatable to everyone, but giving it a try is a great way to find out if it is. It’s important to be moved by art, and you have to give it a chance. And if you like the artist, get to know them in a sense. Become familiar with their work and creative patterns, appreciate who they are and support in any way you feel.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: _lantern_._