From Mickey Mouse Drums—to Benoir

Long Beach, NY, is awash with people who have gifts of art and music. I think the sea draws those so inclined to it; so does the subject of my new photo essay. I’ve heard of him as did most of you, but I never met him.

Recently, I sat and chatted with Ben Metzger, aka Benoir. He is a bright man, exceptionally articulate, with an amazing memory. So, I was hard-pressed to gather all what Ben had to say and put it into an essay.

But I did, for the most part.

His story is one of struggle as are many gifted people. The important thing about Ben is that his gift wasn’t contained; it was let loose, freed, for all of us to enjoy.

After finishing Ben’s story, I realized how many people are also gifted but, rather than having it nurtured, had it put down, disrespected, or even ridiculed for various reasons, some of them—"practical."

For those souls who are not only gifted but have someone who supports, nurtures, and encourages them and their passion—we are all blessed.

We hear of so much sadness in our world today, so it’s so nice to hear beauty in the way of song and music. And it’s so fantastic to have it here, right in our Kennedy Plaza, among other venues.

Ben allowed me to publish his links so you can hear his music. I even, for the first time, published an oral history voice recording I made of him. So you can hear Benoir in his own words fill in his story.

Please enjoy the man who rose From Mickey Mouse Drums—to Benoir.

Be well,
Leebythesea