When two-time Blues Music Award nominee and budding music historian Ben Levin (age 23) first contacted Lil' Jimmy Reed (Leon Atkins, age 84), the two bluesmen, at very different times in their lives and careers, discovered that their musical synergy was effortless. It was soon clear to Levin that producing the capstone album of this treasured icon

When two-time Blues Music Award nominee and budding music historian Ben Levin (age 23) first contacted Lil' Jimmy Reed (Leon Atkins, age 84), the two bluesmen, at very different times in their lives and careers, discovered that their musical synergy was effortless. It was soon clear to Levin that producing the capstone album of this treasured icon who epitomizes the Louisiana down-home blues style was an important contribution to recorded blues history. Lil' Jimmy Reed's powerful harmonica playing, stinging guitar, and commanding vocals are showcased in a mixture of covers and original songs written by Ben Levin, his father Aron Levin, and Lil' Jimmy.

credits releases May 19, 2023

Lil’ Jimmy Reed-guitar/harmonica/vocals; Ben Levin-piano; Aron Levin-second guitar; Walter Cash Jr.-bass; Ricky Nye-drums (1-3 and 5-9); Shorty Starr-drums (4 and 10)

BEFORE ME is the second album from brilliant young blues pianist/singer/songwriter Ben Levin. Featuring performances by his musical friends and heroes Bob Margolin, Bob Corritore, and Phillip Paul (King Records drummer). Listening to this album, you start to think that Levin is the product of decades of long nights in dark clubs and smoky juke

BEFORE ME is the second album from brilliant young blues pianist/singer/songwriter Ben Levin. Featuring performances by his musical friends and heroes Bob Margolin, Bob Corritore, and Phillip Paul (King Records drummer). Listening to this album, you start to think that Levin is the product of decades of long nights in dark clubs and smoky juke joints. He has that sound, a mature perspective that comes from totally immersing yourself in the music until it permeates the deepest recesses of your soul. The reality is that Ben is just finishing his first year of college. But, make no mistake his musical apprenticeship is over. The joy he feels for the music radiates from every track, and his skillful presentation will keep you coming back for more.