Hailing from London, Leyton Benta is a multi-award-winning independent singer, songwriter, actor, and entrepreneur known for his authentic approach to music and life. Driven by a mission to inspire and uplift, Leyton channels his personal experiences—overcoming adversity, prejudice, and rejection—into powerful, heartfelt music that resonates with audiences across generations. With over ten accolades, including the Beffta Award for Best Unsigned Artist, Platinum Star Award, and international recognition for his songwriting, Leyton’s journey stands as a testament to resilience and staying true to one’s purpose. His story is one of breaking norms and championing love, authenticity, and transformation through every note. We had the pleasure of catching up with him to discuss his career and latest projects, including the film ‘Heer Express’, premiering on September 12th.
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Hi Leyton, it’s a pleasure to catch up with you. You’ve spoken about that pivotal moment singing at a Christmas concert at age six. Looking back, how did that early experience shape your sense of purpose and leadership as an artist?
That experience marked a significant beginning for me, even if I didn’t realize it at the time. I could sense the impact it had on those around me; there was an uplifting and calming energy in the room that I contributed to. This sparked my desire to engage in showcases and events, which only grew stronger as the years passed. My skills and artistry developed alongside my experiences, deepening my understanding of my purpose and why I was meant to be here. I recognized that I wasn’t just living in the moment; I aimed to offer something fresh that the world craved. While some beliefs and feelings were sacred, not everyone was ready to embrace them. I’ve always trusted that my persistent efforts would eventually draw in the right people who would enhance my journey.
Who were the mentors or guiding figures that most influenced your artistic path in both music and film—and what’s the most important lesson you still carry from them today?
To everyone who knows me, those who are just getting to know me, and those yet to find me, you’ll each have your own instincts about the influences that shape me, based on what you perceive, hear, and feel. Growing up immersed in the soulful sounds of old-school R&B from the 60s to the 90s has certainly shaped me, but I steer clear of names and comparisons. Instead, I’ve forged my own path, drawing inspiration from my unique qualities. As you delve deeper into the industry, it’s crucial to detach from the noise and focus on becoming your best self. A vital lesson remains constant: understanding how things truly work. My gifts and talents exist beyond the confines of the industry, not just within it. So, take the time to study beyond the surface!
As someone who’s navigated both music and acting from such a young age, what drew you most powerfully to these art forms, and how do they feed each other in your creative process?
Even though the two expressions may differ, they ultimately share the same purpose and mission. Regardless of where my attention lies throughout this journey, the same essence of energy flows with meaningful intentions. That’s the magic of possessing multiple talents and gifts. Each can leave a captivating impact on the audience, but what truly matters is that I steer the narrative I share, ensuring the creative process is rich and well-defined before the world experiences it alongside me. I believe our gifts and talents are inherently within us from the beginning; it just takes the right circumstances to bring them to life.
You turned down multiple major record label offers to protect your values. Looking back, what were the most difficult moments in standing your ground, and how did you find the courage to stay true to yourself?
Honestly, witnessing the inner workings of various industries reveals a stark reality about what it takes to climb the career ladder. The true nature of these fields, designed to perpetuate agendas, often dwells in shadows rather than light. Many are oblivious, captivated by the glitz and glamour that flood our screens. However, pursuing success often means sacrificing your self-worth, as staying relevant in the business comes at the cost of compromising your integrity, morals, and values for the sake of fame. I’ve never been easily swayed or influenced, even when anxiety crept in, urging me to reject offers that would mean selling my soul. Even if such choices could have propelled my career forward, they simply weren’t worth it. Maintaining that courage daily isn’t what most would expect; it’s a constant effort to show up for myself and do what’s right. The journey can feel lonely at times, especially as you become more aware of how the world and the business truly function. Yet, I remain grateful for my dignity, and good souls that surround me. knowing that staying grounded opens up paths for me, even if the journey takes longer to fulfill.
Have there been times when the pressure to compromise your authenticity felt overwhelming, and how did you manage or transform that adversity into creative fuel?
Absolutely! I carry the unseen weight every single day, a full-time responsibility I embraced from a young age, and that commitment will never waver. Justice is a continuous journey, always evolving. Genuine authenticity is the catalyst for positive change in the world. It nurtures, invigorates, and instills…HOPE! I prioritize my personal growth, constantly learning, exploring, healing, and ensuring my mind, body, soul, and spirit are in harmony. The inner work is always active. Without it, you become an empty canvas, easily swayed by outside influences. I channel everything I’ve learned into meaningful purposes, radiating that energy to everyone I meet along my path and career.
Your latest album ‘Speak on Out’ is a bold title—what inspired this album, and what central message do you hope it delivers to listeners?
‘Speak on out’, embodies the essence of freedom of speech and taking a stand, shedding light on the issues that have plagued our world for centuries, long before our time. Topics like child trafficking, corrupt governments, secret societies steering the new world order, the manipulation of AI technology, and the alarming plans for human depopulation are all part of this narrative. As a truther on my journey and in my career, I feel a deep responsibility as an artist. It’s crucial to educate and inform my audience and future supporters, encouraging them to embrace meaningful music that elevates our collective vibrations. “I am merely a messenger to the world, not here to persuade anyone to understand. Whether in life or death, they will recognize that I am a beacon illuminating the darkness.” This line from one of my songs encapsulates my hope for my listeners and those yet to come. I want them to know there’s a genuine human being and artist committed to fighting for a better world for all of us. It’s essential to grasp the impact I leave behind, even when I’m no longer present in this physical realm one day.
How does this project reflect your growth as both an artist and a person, and are there any tracks that feel especially personal or transformative for you?
There’s an endless array of topics and themes I can dive into, and that’s the beauty of being a true songwriter. I draw from my own experiences and keen observations. My identity as a human and an artist intertwines, showcasing who I am as a man and how I express myself to the world. My sensitivity runs deep, allowing me to be a source of solutions for the challenges we face. I’m constantly growing and evolving, and my profound maturity shines through in my work. I believe that every song I write is deeply personal, reflecting a significant part of me that I share with raw honesty. Everything I create is a piece of my soul. Once it’s out in the world, there’s no taking it back. I aspire to be a force for good, a reason to help save this world.
What do you hope people experiencing challenges in their own lives will take away from the music and stories on this album?
What I truly hope is that it inspires them to find more reasons to live! To summon the courage to express their heartfelt opinions, even if their voices tremble at first, because silence is the real struggle. Never endure in silence. Be the change. Challenge everything, don’t just accept the narratives handed to you. Understand which battles to fight and which to let go. I create content to help others grow and evolve alongside me. I aim to breathe life into people. Each song will resonate with diverse audiences from all walks of life. Only those who are meant to hear it will connect on a deeper level and take what they need from these tracks.
How do you define “success” for yourself now, and has that definition shifted as you’ve grown in your career and personal life?
I’ve always seen success as a reflection of the effort I invest in myself, which is truly one of our greatest priorities. For me, success has never been about statistics or numbers, nor the accolades I’ve received or the milestones I’ve reached in film productions or various platforms. It’s all about personal growth. Anything that stems from my greatness is a direct result of the hard work I’ve dedicated throughout my journey. Nothing more. True success lies in the lives you touch through your contributions. Financial rewards are simply a byproduct of those meaningful deeds.
You’re known for being intentional with the roles and projects you choose. What’s the most challenging decision you’ve had to make about your career direction, and what did you learn from it?
I understand that the choices I make could potentially hold back my career. I’ve come to terms with this, yet I feel society has led us to believe that we must conform and dull our spirits to earn our place. But is that truly a reward? To merely exist without truly living? To accept without ever questioning? I am not one to be easily swayed or controlled by the industry or life in general. This very trait makes me appear as a threat. Still, I hold onto the belief that there are good souls out there, if not within the industry, then surrounding it, who resonate with my feelings. Every success in my journey has stemmed from being patient and discerning while also staying consistent and resilient in what makes me unique.
Your mission goes beyond entertainment, aiming to uplift and inspire. How do you balance personal ambition with the responsibility of being a role model, especially for younger generations?
When it’s time for me to retreat and recharge, I wholeheartedly embrace the necessary steps to do so. The energy I invest in my life and career demands replenishment and deep self-care. Many are unaware of the behind-the-scenes effort that goes into this. I recognize the importance of what I leave behind in every situation. I prioritize my self-care as often as needed, especially since no one else will do it for me. I prefer to be at my best for my upcoming challenges rather than the alternative. I create a space where everything is nurtured properly and completely. Nature and the types of frequencies I choose to embrace play a significant role in my nourishment. I only make room for what brings me joy and vitality.
In moments of self-doubt or creative block, what practices or philosophies help you reconnect with your purpose and keep moving forward?
I’ve completely stepped away from social media and limit my time online when necessary, recognizing how toxic it can be and how it distracts from the chaos and distortions it creates. As I mentioned earlier, being in nature is vital. It’s in our essence to embrace these moments, as they connect us to our true source. I find energy in stillness, and I cherish having a small circle of selective people in my life with whom I can share and offload; this adds an extra layer of therapy and rejuvenation, which is essential. There’s a saying: “Always check on the strong ones, as they carry the weight.” It’s also a reminder to acknowledge our own strengths and understand that we’re not in competition with anyone but ourselves. Our focus should be on improving our own journey. The moment you start thinking you need to be like someone else to progress, you’ve already lost.
Your latest film project, ‘Heer Express’, blends Bollywood with UK multiculturalism—a unique fusion. What inspired you to take on the role of Kevin Lewis, and how did you prepare to embody his journey of love and unity?
What truly inspired me was how perfectly the role of Kevin Lewis resonated with my identity as a person and a creative. It felt tailor-made for me to step into that pivotal role. The warmth, the passion, and the ambition of the character were just the cherry on top. Plus, being a family man who spreads joy added another layer! I infused my own unique flavor into embodying this character while staying grounded. I genuinely live by love and purpose, and I’m thrilled that my involvement in the film allowed me to express that. In terms of preparation, I focused on keeping it natural and heartfelt, drawing from my own experiences to maintain that authenticity and balance. I always strive to give more than what’s expected of me. I’m incredibly thankful to casting directors Rachita Kapoor and Udita Kapoor for showcasing my work, which contributed to this wonderful outcome!
Can you walk us through a behind-the-scenes moment during the making of ‘Heer Express’ that challenged you as an actor or musician, and what you took away from that experience?
I remember a time when my dear friend, Bollywood actor Prit Kamani, and I had to whip up some lyrics in a flash for a specific scene. We had to blend English and Hindi, just as the director wanted. It was a fascinating challenge, and the chemistry we had while crafting that quick jingle was truly enjoyable. In the end, only a tiny piece made it into the final cut, but that’s the nature of the game—anything can happen on set. Sometimes, you find yourself unprepared, yet taking risks can lead to unexpected magic from what initially seemed like nothing.
What do you hope audiences will take away from ‘Heer Express,’ and in what ways do you think this film pushes boundaries or opens new conversations in both the UK and international cinema scenes?
I truly believe that what audiences will take away from this film is a deeper self-awareness about the significance of family and the drive to improve. Drawing from personal experiences and aspirations, it encourages individuals to strive for more and to support others in chasing their dreams, regardless of their upbringing. Our pasts shouldn’t dictate how others live; instead, everyone should express themselves in their own unique ways. Each person has a role to play in what they contribute to the world. The diverse and multicultural cast in this production undoubtedly pushes boundaries, showcasing how people from all walks of life can unite to create something positive while dismantling racial barriers. It’s a celebration of shared sentiments and experiences. Once it premieres in theaters, I believe it will leave a profound impact on many who have yet to see this film.
For further information on Leyton, please visit the following links:
- leytonbenta.com
- Instagram.com/leytonbenta_legacy/
- Facebook.com/leyton.benta
- YouTube.com/LeytonBentaLegacy
- Tiktok.com/@leytonbenta.legacy
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