Toronto artist Ben Key unveils his electrifying new single, “James Dean,” an alternative track pulsing with passion, danger, and a us-against-the-world attitude. Blending groove-heavy rhythms, soulful vocals, and ambient synths, the song embodies the restless, rebellious love that defined the golden age of Hollywood.
Inspired by the timeless energy of late ‘50s films, “James Dean” channels the spirit of reckless romance. Ben had been sitting on the song’s title for a while, knowing it perfectly captured the feeling of love that feels bigger than the world itself. The track merges modern sonics with a classic Motown groove, reimagining traditional horn sections with futuristic synth textures for a contemporary edge.
I wanted the song to carry that same sense of passion, defiance, and nostalgia, like a scene straight out of an old movie where love is reckless, raw, and all-consuming. – Ben Key
“James Dean” marks Ben’s first time working with a new producer outside of his indie collective New West, ushering in a fresh era for the platinum-selling artist. His stylistic choices were deliberate—opting for synths in place of traditional horns to bring a familiar, nostalgic energy into 2025. The result is a song that feels both timeless and cutting-edge.
As a founding member of New West, Ben has spent years shaping the alternative music landscape, touring globally and playing major festivals like Osheaga, Pukkelpop, and Austin City Limits. With “James Dean” leading his debut solo project, he is forging a bold new path, blending vintage grit with modern textures to create something uniquely his own.
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