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Ben ROCKS at Rockquest

Ben Matthews ROCKS
StarJam already knew Ben Matthews was destined for big things after some stunning group and solo performances at StarJam’s monthly gatherings, but it has also just been confirmed by one of the biggest nationwide music events in New Zealand –the Smokefree Rockquest. Every year this music extravaganza reaches over 100,000 people in audience numbers. Ben recently made it through the heats to perform at the Manukau regional finals!
The audience packed in for a stunning night of music, rock and entertainment. Ben was quite nervous, but his sisters and parents went along for support and to cheer him on. Ben was the 3rd act on the night, and played and sung two of his own original songs called Runaway With MeUninspired Melodies.

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Ben performing at the Manukau regional finals.
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Ben (3rd from left) with the StarJam Groovy Guitarists.
Ben had been wanting to play the guitar since he was seven years old, and after a number of attempts at learning in traditional classes, Ben gave up. Ben was diagnosed with Asperger’s Syndrome at 13 years of age. He enjoys music and maths, and is a really strong swimmer. In 2006 Ben joined StarJam and hooked up with tutor Bob Fleming. In StarJam’s Groovy Guitar workshop Ben has flourished. He has now written over 40 songs and is known for ‘thinking on his feet’ when it comes to choosing a song to perform. Ben’s mum Janet believes that Ben enjoys StarJam because he “doesn’t have to act ‘normal’.”
StarJam is incredibly proud of Ben who WON the PEOPLE’S CHOICE AWARD at the Manukau finals! The audience voted for who they thought was the best on the night by text. Ben, under the stage name “Toby Keet” had the MOST texts and is now making a 15 minute music video to be considered for the national finals.
Previous winners of the Rockquest include members of Evermore, Elemeno P, Nesian Mystic, Fat Freddys Drop, and Brooke Fraser. GO BEN!