Today we’d like to introduce you to Kenneth Benson.
Hi Kenneth, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
Drumming:
My wedding industry career started in 2015 as a drummer for 1564 Entertainment, a party band company that specialized in weddings, private events, and clubs. During my tenure with 1564, I played in over 200 + events and performed for notable celebrities such as Mark Cuban and Lester Smith. After 5 years with 1564, I was offered a position with the Jordan Khan Orchestra. During my tenure with JKO, I performed with 50 Cent, Dababy, Roddy Ricch, and Common, to name a few.
Djing:
I started DJing in college at Texas Southern University in 2007. During that time, I mainly focused on house parties and social events around campus.
When I moved back to Dallas, I continued djing private events and small events when I wasn’t drumming.
In 2021, I partnered with Walter Estates Weddings and focused on DJing weddings.
In 2022, I left Walter Estates and started my company, BSkillzEntertainment LLC. I’ve been in business for over 4 years, serving the DFW area.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
My entrepreneurial journey has not been as smooth as expected. Especially being a young black business owner, I face all sorts of challenges. Some of the challenges include:
1. Operating a black-owned business in a white-dominated wedding industry. Their has been many instances of racism I’ve encountered with wedding planners, venues, clients, and other vendors.
2. Lack of business knowledge. Being a first-gen business owner, I’ve had to do a ton of learning on the spot when it pertains to certain business matters such as forming an LLC, taxes, etc..
3. Competitive Peers: I started my wedding journey working for other companies, and as soon as I ventured off on my own, I was blackballed and lost a ton of friendships. This business is very cliquey and petty to say the least.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I’m the sole proprietor of BSkillz Entertainment. My company specializes in weddings and private events in the DFW metroplex and beyond.
Under the umbrella of my company, I offer
Dj Services
Music Production
Musician Services
Equipment Rental
Social Media Influencer
I am also a social media influencer in the HBCU marching band space. I’ve amassed a social media following of 65K on YouTube, 68K on Instagram, and 184K on TikTok. I’ve had the pleasure of working with corporations such as HONDA and the Texas Supreme Music Association Conservatory.
We’d love to hear about any fond memories you have from when you were growing up?
My favorite childhood memory is going fishing with my grandmother and playing drums at church.
Pricing:
- Private Events I start at $250 an hour
- Weddings I start at $350 an hour
- Touring Acts : Negotiable
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.bskillzentertainment.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/djb_skillz/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@djbskillz214
- Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@djbskillz
