RJ Benjamin

RJ Benjamin: The Neo-Soul Architect Shaping South African Music

Award-winning vocalist, songwriter, composer, producer and vocal coach RJ Benjamin has quietly become one of the most influential figures in South African music, both on stage and behind the scenes. Revered for his musical intelligence and versatility, he has been described by Ghetto Ruff founder Lance Stehr as “the best composer, singer and musician this country has ever produced.”

A graduate of the Allenby Campus School of Contemporary Music in 2000, RJ’s rise was shaped by a tight-knit creative community that included DJ Cleo, ProVerb, Elvis Blue and Robin Kohl. Those formative years laid the foundation for a career built on collaboration, mentorship and musical excellence. Today, his legacy is also reflected in the artists he has helped shape, with former students including Idols SA season 10 winner Vincent Bones, Vusi Nova, Naaq Musiq and Anatii.

RJ’s impact expanded into television when he was selected as head vocal coach on the reality music show Project Fame. In 2013, he stepped into the role of musical director for Idols South Africa and Clash of the Choirs, later returning for the SAFTA-winning second season of Clash of the Choirs and serving as in-house mentor on subsequent seasons of Idols. His presence helped raise the vocal and musical standard of South African television talent shows.

His recording career began with the 2004 debut album Who I Am, a critically respected neo-soul project released through Ghetto Ruff. Blending funk, soul and jazz, the album featured collaborations with Flash Republic, Tamara Dey, Pitch Black Afro, Amu and Ishmael, with production contributions from 37MPH and Bongani Fassie.

More than two decades into his career, RJ Benjamin remains a cornerstone of South African music, celebrated for his artistry, his mentorship and his enduring influence on a new generation of stars.