By Florence Kyohangirwe
Image Credit: Geoff Walker
Growing up in a diverse community and faced with hardships, artist Benjamin Spartos often fell into a pit of depression.
For Benjamin, abuse, addictions and disappointments from friends, relatives, lovers and others almost damaged his life. “I have always been slow to anger and never pointed fingers because I believed people just need love and direction,” he says. He decided to turn his rage into something positive — music, “I came across many people like me and others who had gone through worse situations. I also got inspired by mentors and good friends who believed in me until I finally found my peace again. I know I am not the only one that has endured awful, painful experiences and getting into music has given me the mantle to address them, I use my voice-the most powerful tool I have.”
Benjamin explores sensitive topics like mental health, social innovation and community development. He has steadily grown his audience on YouTube and social media platforms as his memorable voice sings straight to people’s hearts.
Throughout the lock down, the Gulu based singer has been running an online video series campaign dubbed #RisingSouls, where he sings melodies of hope especially to all those affected by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Check out more of his on his website and on his YouTube channel.
