Kent based Ben Mills shot to fame after coming third on series three of the X Factor in 2006. On first hearing Ben sing Simon Cowell said "it has been a long, long, long time since I have heard someone of your age sing an R & B classic like that!"
His success on this show resulted in a recording contract with Sony BMG and the subsequent release of his debut album, "Picture Of You", in March 2007 which sold over 130,000 copies.
Three years on Ben has travelled the length and breadth of the country, Europe and the United States, appearing at a range of venues to rave reviews, securing himself a very strong following. In addition to pursuing his solo career, Ben recently formed and fronts the Rod Stewart revival band, Simply Rod. He also continues to perform with his 70's & 80's funk/soul band, Benzego.
An accomplished musician, playing both the guitar and piano, Ben is also recognised as an extremely talented songwriter. His second album, "Freedom", showcases Ben's stunning new material, and includes collaborations with Mark Owen (Take That) and Paul Barry (James Morrison).
Having released the album independently, Ben talks of his decision to leave Sony BMG and go it alone:
"I believe in life we are all faced with many crossroads, sometimes we take the right path and sometimes the wrong but if you keep on walking eventually you'll get the chance to put things right!"
"Freedom is my journey, my decisions and the roads I took. I had an idea of what I wanted my second album to sound like (warning, no autotune was used in the production of this album!) and Freedom is it! In my short but extreme experience in the music industry that is a rare thing indeed!"
Ben is the patron for three local charities, RSPCA, Kent Kids: Miles Of Smiles and Walk With Michael. He also actively supports Demelza House, a children's residential hospice in Sittingbourne, Kent.
In Summer 2009 Ben married long-term girlfriend, Melissa, and the family live in Kent.