Benny Blanco, born Benjamin Joseph Levin on March 8, 1988, is a prominent American record producer, songwriter, and musician. Raised in Reston, Virginia, Benny developed an early interest in music and began experimenting with beats and recording music as a teenager. His initial exposure to hip-hop came through artists like Nas and Wu-Tang Clan, which deeply influenced his musical style.
Career Beginnings
Blanco started his career under the mentorship of Dr. Luke, a well-known producer. This partnership helped him refine his craft and establish connections in the music industry. Benny’s breakthrough came in the mid-2000s when he co-wrote and co-produced chart-topping hits like Katy Perry's "Teenage Dream" and Kesha's "Tik Tok."
Major Achievements
Blanco has co-written and produced numerous hits for artists across genres, including:
- Ed Sheeran ("Shape of You")
- Rihanna ("Diamonds")
- Justin Bieber ("Love Yourself")
- Maroon 5 ("Moves Like Jagger")
These songs have earned him widespread recognition and numerous awards, including the Songwriters Hall of Fame's Hal David Starlight Award in 2013.
Solo Career
In 2018, Benny Blanco transitioned into releasing music under his name. His debut single, "Eastside," featuring Halsey and Khalid, became a global hit, showcasing his versatility as an artist. He has since released other successful tracks, collaborating with major artists like Juice WRLD, Selena Gomez, and Calvin Harris.
Influence and Style
Benny Blanco is celebrated for his ability to blend genres, crafting catchy hooks and emotionally resonant lyrics. His influence on modern pop and hip-hop has been substantial, with his production credits contributing to the success of over a dozen number-one Billboard Hot 100 songs.
Personal Life
Blanco maintains a relatively low-profile personal life, occasionally sharing glimpses of his quirky personality on social media. He is known for his humor and down-to-earth demeanor, often poking fun at himself in interviews and posts.
Philanthropy
Blanco is also involved in philanthropic efforts, supporting music education programs and initiatives to make music more accessible to underprivileged youth.
Benny Blanco’s career continues to thrive, with his work leaving an indelible mark on the global music landscape.
Benny Blanco, the renowned music producer, songwriter, and record label founder, has an estimated net worth of $50 to $60 million as of 2024. His wealth comes from a diverse range of sources, including his work on numerous hit songs for top artists like Rihanna, Ed Sheeran, Katy Perry, and Justin Bieber. His catalog of 93 songs was sold to Hipgnosis Songs Fund Limited in 2019 for an undisclosed amount, likely valued between $40 and $50 million. Additionally, he earns from songwriting royalties, production fees, and brand endorsements.
Blanco also invests in real estate, owning high-value properties in Los Angeles and New York. His car collection and other ventures further contribute to his financial success