Ben Bacardi is one of those artists who makes you feel the weight of every bar. Born and raised in Fresh Meadows, Queens, he’s carrying that borough DNA—gritty, soulful, and straight to the point. His sound pulls inspiration from the greats—Jay-Z, Biggie, Nas, Wu-Tang Clan, Snoop Dogg, and Mobb Deep—but it isn’t nostalgia. It’s present-day Queens, told in his own voice.
Why He’s Making Noise
- NYC grit in every verse: His storytelling feels like walking down Roosevelt Avenue at midnight—authentic, raw, and undeniably New York.
- Music as survival: After battling depression and anxiety, he came back to the mic like it was oxygen. That energy—the sense of rebirth—is all over his catalog.
- Tribeca Records debut: His first single with the label, “Life Again,” featuring Pelle and H., dropped February 18, 2025. It’s a renaissance track, mixing resilience and raw fire.
- Visual game strong: The video, released in April, feels more like a short film than a promo—cinematic visuals that capture his transformation.
- Deep catalog already: With over a hundred tracks recorded—including collabs with Queens legends like Royal Flush and Boots—he’s sitting on an arsenal.
What’s Next
- Josie Music Awards: Ben scored a nomination for “Song of the Year – Hip Hop” at the 2025 Josie Music Awards for Life Again. That’s recognition beyond his block—it’s national indie respect.
- New single “Take Me Down to the Water”: Just dropped, and critics are calling it atmospheric, moody, and cinematic. It’s haunting in the best way, pushing his artistry into new territory.
- Debut album “1986”: Out September 23, 2025. The project ties together his Queens upbringing, his battles, and his rebirth into a cohesive sonic story.
Bottom Line
Ben Bacardi isn’t chasing trends—he’s building a legacy. His music is layered with struggle, triumph, and the DNA of New York hip hop. With 1986 on the horizon, he’s poised to prove he’s more than a local name—he’s a voice people need to hear.
