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{{Infobox person
{{Infobox person
| name              = Benjamin Kheng
| name              = Benjamin Kheng
| image              = Benjamin Kheng.jpg
| image              = Ben Kheng Spotify.png
| birth_date        = 15 August 1990
| birth_date        = 15 August 1990
| education          = Diploma in Arts and Theatre Management
| education          = Diploma in Arts and Theatre Management
| known for          = Content producer, Actor, Musician, The Sam Willows
| family            = Narelle Kheng
|alma mater=Anglo-Chinese School (Primary), Anglo-Chinese School (Independent), Singapore Sports School, Republic Polytechnic}}
|alma mater=Anglo-Chinese School (Primary), Anglo-Chinese School (Independent), Singapore Sports School, Republic Polytechnic}}


Benjamin Kheng (born 15 August 1990) is the vocalist, guitarist and keyboardist of The Sam Willows. He was a former national swimmer and also a radio DJ for Lush 99.5FM. He has starred in several plays and movies and has also collaborated with many international and local content creators on YouTube.<ref>[http://fly.com.sg/fly-artistes/fly-male-artistes/benjamin-kheng/ Benjamin Kheng]. ''Fly Entertainment''. Accessed on 11 January 2019. </ref> As of 2019, he has collaborated with [[Hirzi Zulkiflie]] to launch The BenZi Project, a comedy sketch channel on YouTube.
Benjamin Kheng (born 15 August 1990) is a Singaporean musician and actor. Popularly known as the vocalist of The Sam Willows, he has been producing solo music and creating comedy sketches with [[Hirzi Zulkiflie]] on The Benzi Project as of 2019. He was also a former national swimmer and a radio DJ for Lush 99.5FM.<ref>"[http://fly.com.sg/fly-artistes/fly-male-artistes/benjamin-kheng/ Benjamin Kheng | FLY Entertainment]". ''FLY Entertainment''. Accessed on 21 October 2019.</ref>


==Background==
==Background==


===The Sam Willows===
=== Early life & family ===
[[File:The Sam Willows concert.jpg|thumb|''The Sam Willows performing live at one of their concerts. Photo from [https://www.8days.sg/sceneandheard/entertainment/the-sam-willows-are-taking-a-break-i-wish-i-had-more-drama-for-11572272 8 Days].'']]
Benjamin Kheng was born on 15 August 1990 to Kheng Meng Siong and Regina.<ref>"[https://aminoapps.com/c/asianmusic/page/item/benjamin-kheng/NwB7_ELfWId1pe314ZrB3abzV3nn8z3Ev Benjamin Kheng | Wiki | Asian Music Amino]". ''aminoapps.com''. Accessed on 21 October 2019.</ref> He is the older brother of Narelle Kheng.<ref>Tan, Corrie. "THE LIFE! INTERVIEW WITH Benjamin Kheng; Star turn". ''The Straits Times''. April 21, 2014. Accessed on 21 October 2019. Retrieved from Factiva.</ref> As children, their mother had exposed them to classical composers like Tchaikovsky and Bach.<ref>Yeo, Melissa. "[https://mustsharenews.com/narelle-kheng-sam-willows/ 10 Narelle Kheng Facts That’ll Make You Fall In Love With Her]". ''Must Share News''. December 3, 2015. Accessed on 21 October 2019. </ref> In 2002, they lost their mother to Stage 2 breast cancer after her four-year-long battle.<ref>Noor, Ashikin Abdul Rahman. "[https://www.tnp.sg/m/music/music-news/love-mum-deeper-meaning-behind-sam-willows-mv For Love of Mum: The deeper meaning behind The Sam Willows' MV]". ''The New Paper''. October 23, 2015. Accessed on 21 October 2019. </ref><ref>Tay, Winston. "[https://www.youth.sg/Spotted/People/2018/2/A-cause-close-to-Benjamin-Kheng-heart A cause close to Benjamin Kheng's heart]". ''Youth.sg''. February 2, 2018. Accessed on 17 April 2020.</ref> Ben began swimming competitively at six years old. He had been a part of the Swimfast Aquatic Club, managed by a former national swimmer, David Lim.<ref>Tan, Corrie. “[https://www.asiaone.com/entertainment/star-turn?page=0%2C1 Star turn]”. ''The Straits Times''. April 23, 2014. Accessed on 21 October 2019. </ref>
The Sam Willows is comprised of Narelle Kheng, Jonathan Chua, Benjamin Kheng, Sandra Riley Tang. In late 2011, the quartet had first grouped together to perform at their school’s alumni concert.<ref>Sumayao, Marco. [http://www.mtvasia.com/news/8aemoz/the-sam-willows-learn-to-grow-up-without-ditching-fun The Sam Willows learn to grow up without ditching fun]. ''MTV Asia''. July 13, 2018. Accessed on 11 January 2019.</ref> In May 2012, The Sam Willows uploaded their first mashup and cover of hit songs Hey Soul Sister by Train and We Are Young by Fun. The video went viral and marked their rise to fame as a household name.  


===Education===
Ben attended Anglo-Chinese School (Primary) before enrolling into Anglo-Chinese School (Independent) through the Direct School Admissions (DSA) programme.<ref>Hannah. "[https://www.youngparents.com.sg/education/local-musician-benjamin-kheng-shares-heartwarming-psle-story-viral-post/ Local musician Benjamin Kheng shares heartwarming PSLE story in viral post]". ''Young Parents''. November 29, 2016. Accessed on 17 April 2020.</ref> He had then transferred to the Singapore Sports School to pursue competitive swimming.<ref>Ho, Ai Li. “They want the best of both worlds”. ''The Straits Times''. November 8, 2004. Accessed on 21 October 2019. Retrieved from Factiva. </ref> During his time there, Ben was a part of the national youth team, specialising in long-distance events and the individual medley. In 2005, he won the Queensland State Championships for the boys' 200 m individual medley at a timing of 2:16.92.<ref>“Home Sports”. The Straits Times''.'' January 11, 2005''.'' Accessed on 21 October 2019. Retrieved from Factiva</ref><ref>“Sports School continue golden run”. ''Today''. August 11, 2006. Accessed on 21 October 2019. Retrieved from Factiva.</ref> In 2006, Benjamin Kheng was presented with the National Schools Colours Award in recognition of his sporting achievements.<ref>“2006 National Schools Colours Award winners”. ''The Straits Times.'' October 24, 2006. Accessed on 21 October 2019. Retrieved from Factiva. </ref>


In an early interview, Sandra stated that their band’s name ‘The Sam Willows’ is representative of their collective identity as a band, emphasizing the “organic feel” that ‘Sam Willows’ implies. On 27 May 2019, The Sam Willows announced that they were going on a hiatus.<ref>Tan, Kendra. "[https://www.8days.sg/sceneandheard/entertainment/the-sam-willows-are-taking-a-break-i-wish-i-had-more-drama-for-11572272 The Sam Willows Are Taking A Break: "I Wish I Had More Drama For You But We're All Still Good Friends"]". ''8 Days''. May 28, 2019. Accessed on 20 November 2019.</ref>


===Youth athlete & competitive swimming===
Ben furthered his studies in Republic Polytechnic's Arts and Theatre Management course. In 2009, he was a part of ''The Little Prince'' (Act 3 International) production at the Shanghai International Children's Theatre Festival.<ref>Tan, Corrie. “[https://www.asiaone.com/entertainment/star-turn?page=0%2C1 Star turn]”. ''The Straits Times''. April 23, 2014. Accessed on 21 October 2019. </ref>
[[File:Benjamin Kheng swimming.jpg|thumb|''Benjamin Kheng was a youth athlete in primary and secondary school. Photo from [https://www.buro247.sg/instagram/benjaminkheng/29834983 BURO].'']]
==Relationships==
At six years old, Benjamin Kheng swam competitively where he was part of the Swimfast Aquatic Club, managed by a former national swimmer, David Lim.<ref>Tan, Corrie. “[https://www.asiaone.com/entertainment/star-turn?page=0%2C1 Star turn]”. ''The Straits Times''. April 23, 2014. Accessed on 21 October 2019. </ref> Benjamin Kheng had previously attended Anglo-Chinese School (Primary) and Anglo-Chinese School (Independent) before transferring to Singapore Sports School to further his pursuit in competitive swimming.<ref>Ho, Ai Li. “They want the best of both worlds”. ''The Straits Times''. November 8, 2004. Accessed on 21 October 2019. Retrieved from Factiva. </ref>
===Engagement to [[Naomi Yeo]] (2020)===
 
[[File:Ben Kheng and Naomi Yeo.jpg|thumb|''Photo credit to [https://www.instagram.com/phoenixcasuarina/ Phoenix Casuarina].'' ''Retrieved from [https://www.8days.sg/sceneandheard/celebrities/benjamin-kheng-proposed-to-his-girlfriend-naomi-yeo-and-she-had-12536784 8 Days].''|link=https://wiki.sg/p/File:Ben_Kheng_and_Naomi_Yeo.jpg]]Ben and Naomi made their relationship public in September 2019.<ref>Fong, Victor. “[https://goodyfeed.com/benjamin-kheng-made-public-about-his-relationship-with-987fms-naomi-yeo/ BENJAMIN KHENG ‘MADE PUBLIC’ ABOUT HIS RELATIONSHIP WITH 987FM’S NAOMI YEO]”. ''GoodyFeed.'' September 26, 2019. Accessed on 23 March 2020.</ref> Before that, they had worked on projects together as colleagues - having been cast members in shows like ''The Intruder'' (2019). In March 2020, Ben and Naomi posted photos of their engagement onto their respective Instagram accounts.<ref>naomiyhs. ''Instagram.'' March 16, 2020. Accessed on 23 March 2020. Retrieved from: https://www.instagram.com/p/B9wNnPUpFgP/</ref><ref>benjaminkheng. ''Instagram.'' March 18, 2020. Accessed on 23 March 2020. Retrieved from: https://www.instagram.com/p/B91j14OFBXE/</ref> The proposal had been captured by New Zealand-based photographer, [https://phoenixcasuarina.com/ Phoenix Casuarina]. Ben had proposed to Naomi at Lindis Pass in Southern New Zealand.<ref>[https://cnalifestyle.channelnewsasia.com/trending/sam-willows-benjamin-kheng-engaged-part-time-987-dj-naomi-yeo-12538506 Sam Willows' Benjamin Kheng gets engaged to part-time 987 DJ Naomi Yeo]. ''CNA Lifestyle.'' March 14, 2020. Accessed on 23 March 2020.</ref><ref>Lee, Wei Lin. “[https://www.8days.sg/sceneandheard/celebrities/benjamin-kheng-proposed-to-his-girlfriend-naomi-yeo-and-she-had-12536784 Benjamin Kheng Proposed To His Girlfriend Naomi Yeo And She Had Just The Cutest Response]”. ''8Days.'' March 14, 2020. Accessed on 23 March 2020.</ref> The couple had been on holiday at the time. It was also revealed that Ben had asked Naomi's parents for their blessings four months prior to his proposal.<ref>naomiyhs. ''Instagram.'' March 16, 2020. Accessed on 23 March 2020. Retrieved from: https://www.instagram.com/p/B9wXaLxJJQ9/</ref>
 
==Acting career highlights==
During his time at Singapore Sports School, Benjamin Kheng was part of the national youth team, specializing in long-distance events and individual medley. He participated in regional competitions and won various titles. In 2005, he won the Queensland State Championships for the boys' 200 m individual medley at a timing of 2:16.92.<ref>“Home Sports”. The Straits Times''.'' January 11, 2005''.'' Accessed on 21 October 2019. Retrieved from Factiva</ref><ref>“Sports School continue golden run”. ''Today''. August 11, 2006. Accessed on 21 October 2019. Retrieved from Factiva.</ref> In 2006, Benjamin Kheng was presented with the National Schools Colours Award in recognition of his sporting achievements.<ref>“2006 National Schools Colours Award winners”. ''The Straits Times.'' October 24, 2006. Accessed on 21 October 2019. Retrieved from Factiva. </ref>
As of April 2020, Benjamin Kheng is signed to Fly Entertainment, managed by [[Irene Ang]].<ref>"[http://fly.com.sg/fly-artistes/fly-male-artistes/benjamin-kheng/ Benjamin Kheng | FLY Entertainment]". ''FLY Entertainment''. Accessed on 21 October 2019.</ref>
 
===Media and performing arts===
As part of a program by the Singapore Sports School, Benjamin Kheng enrolled in Republic Polytechnic's Arts and Theatre Management course. He also participated in plays such as The Little Prince (Act 3 International) at the 2009 Shanghai International Children's Theatre Festival.<ref>Tan, Corrie. “[https://www.asiaone.com/entertainment/star-turn?page=0%2C1 Star turn]”. ''The Straits Times''. April 23, 2014. Accessed on 21 October 2019.  </ref>  
 
 
Additionally, Benjamin Kheng ventured into radio presenting. He was previously a radio presenter at Lush 99.5 FM where he hosted 'The Art of Lush' and 'The Lush Lab'.<ref>"[http://fly.com.sg/fly-artistes/fly-male-artistes/benjamin-kheng/ Benjamin Kheng | FLY Entertainment]". ''FLY Entertainment''. Accessed on 21 October 2019.</ref> In 2012, Benjamin Kheng co-founded The Sam Willows. The band has since developed a strong follower base with an average of 170,000 monthly listeners on Spotify.<ref>"[https://open.spotify.com/artist/0mXXLFHmd5bUHxkzaC9ujw/about The Sam Willows]". ''Spotify''. Accessed on 21 October 2019.</ref>
 
 
Benjamin Kheng is signed to Fly Entertainment, managed by [[Irene Ang]].<ref>"[http://fly.com.sg/fly-artistes/fly-male-artistes/benjamin-kheng/ Benjamin Kheng | FLY Entertainment]". ''FLY Entertainment''. Accessed on 21 October 2019.</ref>
 
==Personal life==
 
===Family===
Benjamin Kheng (金文明) was born on 15 August 1990.<ref>"[https://aminoapps.com/c/asianmusic/page/item/benjamin-kheng/NwB7_ELfWId1pe314ZrB3abzV3nn8z3Ev Benjamin Kheng | Wiki | Asian Music Amino]". ''aminoapps.com''. Accessed on 21 October 2019.</ref> His father is Kheng Meng Siong. In 2014, Ben released a spoken piece titled "FATHER, FATHER" ([https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kY64nFtVcyI YouTube video]) dedicated to his dad. The video was directed by The Sam Willows band member, Sandra Riley Tang and the music and lyrics were written in collaboration with Joel Tan (Gentle Bones).<ref>Kheng, Benjamin. “[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kY64nFtVcyI FATHER, FATHER || Spoken Word || Benjamin Kheng x Gentle Bones]”. ''YouTube''. December 22, 2014. Accessed on 11 January 2019. </ref> Benjamin Kheng is also the older brother of The Sam Willows band member, Narelle Kheng.<ref>Tan, Corrie. "THE LIFE! INTERVIEW WITH Benjamin Kheng; Star turn". ''The Straits Times''. April 21, 2014. Accessed on 21 October 2019. Retrieved from Factiva.</ref>
 
 
During his childhood, Benjamin Kheng was largely influenced by his mother, Regina, who had introduced him to renowned classical composers including Tchaikovsky and Bach. <ref>Yeo, Melissa. "[https://mustsharenews.com/narelle-kheng-sam-willows/ 10 Narelle Kheng Facts That’ll Make You Fall In Love With Her]". ''Must Share News''. December 3, 2015. Accessed on 21 October 2019. </ref> In 2002, Benjamin Kheng's mother passed away after a four year battle with Stage 2 breast cancer.<ref>Noor, Ashikin Abdul Rahman. "[https://www.tnp.sg/m/music/music-news/love-mum-deeper-meaning-behind-sam-willows-mv For Love of Mum: The deeper meaning behind The Sam Willows' MV]". ''The New Paper''. October 23, 2015. Accessed on 21 October 2019. </ref>
==Career highlights==


===Acting & hosting===
===Acting & hosting===
[[File:No Sleep No FOMO.png|thumb|''Ben Kheng pictured (bottom row, second from right) in the promotional poster for No Sleep No FOMO (2019). Photo from HelloKpop.'']]
[[File:Benjamin Kheng The Intruder.jpg|thumb|''Ben pictured as Adam in The Intruder (2019). Photo from [https://www.buro247.sg/instagram/benjaminkheng/29801893 source].'']]
Most notably in 2019, Ben was a part of an international cast for No Sleep No FOMO. The eight-part series is a reality travelogue show featuring both local and international celebrities and social media personalities. Alongside Benjamin Kheng, members of the show include Eric Nam, Nat Ho, Paul Foster and guest appearances by Kim Jong Kook. In each episode, members explore new cities and while completing missions.<ref>"[https://www.hallyusg.net/2019/03/20/coverage-viunosleepnofomo/ Viu’s No Sleep No FOMO Cast Members Share Their Filming Experiences]". ''HallyuSG''. March 20, 2019. Accessed on 21 October 2019. </ref><ref>Tetchie. "[https://www.hellokpop.com/event/viu-original-no-sleep-no-fomo-launch-party/ Viu Original “No Sleep No FOMO” Cast Members Showcase An Amazing Launch Party]". ''hellokpop.com''. March 22, 2019. Accessed on 21 October 2019.</ref>
In 2019, Ben was a part of an international cast for No Sleep No FOMO. The eight-part reality travelogue show featured local and international personalities like Eric Nam, Nat Ho and [[Paul Foster]]. In each episode, members explore new cities and while completing missions.<ref>"[https://www.hallyusg.net/2019/03/20/coverage-viunosleepnofomo/ Viu’s No Sleep No FOMO Cast Members Share Their Filming Experiences]". ''HallyuSG''. March 20, 2019. Accessed on 21 October 2019. </ref><ref>Tetchie. "[https://www.hellokpop.com/event/viu-original-no-sleep-no-fomo-launch-party/ Viu Original “No Sleep No FOMO” Cast Members Showcase An Amazing Launch Party]". ''hellokpop.com''. March 22, 2019. Accessed on 21 October 2019.</ref>
{| class="wikitable"
{| class="wikitable"
!Year
!Year
!Title of Show/Movie
!Title of Production
!Role
!Role
!Refs.
!Refs.
|-
|-
|2019
| rowspan="2" |2019
|No Sleep No FOMO
|No Sleep No FOMO
|Host
|Host
|<ref>"[https://www.hallyusg.net/2019/03/20/coverage-viunosleepnofomo/ Viu’s No Sleep No FOMO Cast Members Share Their Filming Experiences]". ''HallyuSG''. March 20, 2019. Accessed on 21 October 2019.</ref><ref>Tetchie. "[https://www.hellokpop.com/event/viu-original-no-sleep-no-fomo-launch-party/ Viu Original “No Sleep No FOMO” Cast Members Showcase An Amazing Launch Party]". ''hellokpop.com''. March 22, 2019. Accessed on 21 October 2019.</ref>
|<ref>"[https://www.hallyusg.net/2019/03/20/coverage-viunosleepnofomo/ Viu’s No Sleep No FOMO Cast Members Share Their Filming Experiences]". ''HallyuSG''. March 20, 2019. Accessed on 21 October 2019.</ref><ref>Tetchie. "[https://www.hellokpop.com/event/viu-original-no-sleep-no-fomo-launch-party/ Viu Original “No Sleep No FOMO” Cast Members Showcase An Amazing Launch Party]". ''hellokpop.com''. March 22, 2019. Accessed on 21 October 2019.</ref>
|-
|-
|2019
|The Intruder
|The Intruder ([https://tv.toggle.sg/en/shows/the-intruder/episodes Toggle])
|Adam
|Main character (Adam)
|<ref>"[https://www.mewatch.sg/en/series/the-intruder/ep1/713154 The Intruder - EP 1]". ''MeWatch''. January 3, 2019. Accessed on 17 April 2020.</ref>
|<ref>''“[https://tv.toggle.sg/en/shows/the-intruder/info The Intruder]''. Toggle. Accessed on 11 January 2019.</ref>
|-
|-
|2018
|2018
|FAM! ([https://tv.toggle.sg/en/shows/fa/fam-tif/episodes Toggle])
|FAM!
|Main character
|Main character
|<ref>"[https://sg.news.yahoo.com/singapore-sitcom-fam-nominated-for-international-emmy-award-170335319.html Singapore sitcom 'FAM!' nominated for International Emmy Award]". ''Yahoo''. September 21, 2019. Accessed on 15 October 2019.</ref><ref>"[https://www.iemmys.tv/international-emmy-awards/nominees/?fbclid=IwAR2AA_nK12dclMLk7n2Ltm5S0kIULzrmLI-JNMqlu8hS9kNfLSQlPb1QBaY Nominees - International Academy of Television Art & Sciences]". ''International Academy of Television Arts & Sciences''. Accessed on 15 October 2019.  </ref>
|<ref>"[https://sg.news.yahoo.com/singapore-sitcom-fam-nominated-for-international-emmy-award-170335319.html Singapore sitcom 'FAM!' nominated for International Emmy Award]". ''Yahoo''. September 21, 2019. Accessed on 15 October 2019.</ref><ref>"[https://www.iemmys.tv/international-emmy-awards/nominees/?fbclid=IwAR2AA_nK12dclMLk7n2Ltm5S0kIULzrmLI-JNMqlu8hS9kNfLSQlPb1QBaY Nominees - International Academy of Television Art & Sciences]". ''International Academy of Television Arts & Sciences''. Accessed on 15 October 2019.  </ref>
|-
|-
|2017
| rowspan="2" |2017
|Wonderboy
|Wonderboy
|Main character (Richard Lee)
|Richard Lee
| -
|-
|2017
|The Breakup List ([https://tv.toggle.sg/en/tv/shows/th/the-breakup-list Toggle])
|Main character (Luke Wong)
| -
| -
|-
|-
|2016
|The Breakup List
|Can You Not?! ([https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NfzkqRS9zPs&t=2399s YouTube web series])
|Luke Wong
|Main character (Jason)
|<ref>"[https://tv.mewatch.sg/en/tv/shows/th/the-breakup-list The Breakup List]". ''MeWatch''. Accessed on 17 April 2020.</ref>
| -
|}
 
===Music collaborations<ref>[https://open.spotify.com/artist/53GouHDfCfsBJIn1OjYmPO Benjamin Kheng]. ''Spotify''. Accessed on 11 January 2019. </ref>===
{| class="wikitable"
!Year
!Project
!Artist
!Role
|-
|2017
|2017 BILLBOARD HITS MASHUP ([https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1rwPhpiUDSk YouTube])
|Vidi Aldiano
|Featured artist
|-
|2017
|Sober
|Evanturetime (Evan Low)
|Produced a song alongside Jonathan Chua and Nathan Hartono
|-
|2016
|YAYA
|[[THELIONCITYBOY (Kevin Lester)|THELIONCITYBOY]]
|Featured artist in the single
|-
|2016
|Comfortable & Blank
|Bittymacbeth
|Featured artist in the 'Beauty for Ashes' album
|-
|-
|2016
|2016
|I Got All I Need (This Christmas)
|Can You Not?!
|The Apex Project
|Jason
|Featured artist
|<ref>"[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NfzkqRS9zPs&t=2399s Can You Not?! - The Full Webseries]". ''YouTube''. September 1, 2016. Accessed on 17 April 2020. </ref>
|-
|2015
|Fight Song - Rachel Platten - ONE TAKE! Benjamin Kheng & KHS Cover ([https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2kR3hmaikGI YouTube])
|Kurt & Company
|Featured artist
|-
|2015
|A Love Song - Unbreakable
|28th SEA Games
|Featured artist in the 'Songs Of The Games' album
|-
|2015
|Strangers
|Debra Khng
|Featured artist in the 'Wolves in The Night' album
|-
|2015
|Red & Blue
|[[ShiGGa Shay (Pek Jin Shen)|ShiGGa Shay]]
|Featured artist in the 'ShiGGa Shay’ album
|}
|}


===Theatre===
=== Theatre ===
[[File:Ah Boys To Men The Musical Benjamin Kheng.jpg|thumb|''In 2014, Ben Kheng played the character Ken Chow in the Ah Boys To Men musical. Photo from [https://www.asiaone.com/entertainment/ah-boys-men-musical-gets-new-recruit AsiaOne].'']]
{| class="wikitable"
{| class="wikitable"
!Year
!Year
Line 152: Line 76:
|<ref>Ng, Gwendolyn. “[https://www.straitstimes.com/lifestyle/arts/hit-local-military-movie-ah-boys-to-men-to-become-musical Hit local military movie Ah Boys To Men to become musical]”. ''The Straits Times''. February 5, 2014. Accessed on 11 January 2019. </ref>
|<ref>Ng, Gwendolyn. “[https://www.straitstimes.com/lifestyle/arts/hit-local-military-movie-ah-boys-to-men-to-become-musical Hit local military movie Ah Boys To Men to become musical]”. ''The Straits Times''. February 5, 2014. Accessed on 11 January 2019. </ref>
|-
|-
|2013
| rowspan="2" |2013
|Edges The Musical
|Edges The Musical
|Main character
|Main character
Line 158: Line 82:
|<ref>Tan, Corrie. "Gen Y angst in song and dance". ''The Straits Times''. April 1, 2013. Accessed on 21 October 2019. Retrieved from Factiva.</ref>
|<ref>Tan, Corrie. "Gen Y angst in song and dance". ''The Straits Times''. April 1, 2013. Accessed on 21 October 2019. Retrieved from Factiva.</ref>
|-
|-
|2013
|Romeo & Juliet
|Romeo & Juliet
|Romeo
|Romeo
Line 164: Line 87:
|<ref>Pham, Larry. “[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KyqpFSqxR5A&feature=youtu.be It Is My Lady - A Song From Romeo & Juliet by Toy Factory Productions]”. ''YouTube''. January 28, 2014. Accessed on 11 January 2019. </ref>
|<ref>Pham, Larry. “[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KyqpFSqxR5A&feature=youtu.be It Is My Lady - A Song From Romeo & Juliet by Toy Factory Productions]”. ''YouTube''. January 28, 2014. Accessed on 11 January 2019. </ref>
|-
|-
|2012
| rowspan="2" |2012
|National Broadway Company
|National Broadway Company
|Dick Lee
|Dick Lee
Line 170: Line 93:
|<ref>"Singapore theatre's 1980s zeitgeist". ''The Business Times''. August 17, 2012. Accessed on 21 October 2019. Retrieved from Factiva.</ref>
|<ref>"Singapore theatre's 1980s zeitgeist". ''The Business Times''. August 17, 2012. Accessed on 21 October 2019. Retrieved from Factiva.</ref>
|-
|-
|2012
|Boom
|Boom
|Real estate agent
|Real estate agent
Line 183: Line 105:
|}
|}


===The BenZi Project (2019 - present)===
== Music career highlights ==
[[File:The Benzi Project Code Switching.jpg|thumb|''Ben Kheng (right) and Hirzi (left) in Code Switching. Thumbnail from [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mCnfF6Owc2s YouTube].'']]
As of April 2020, Ben is managed by Sony Music Entertainment Singapore.<ref>"[https://www.instagram.com/benjaminkheng/?hl=en Benjamin Kheng]". ''Instagram''. Accessed on 17 April 2020.</ref> He has an estimated 139,500 monthly listeners on Spotify as of 17 April 2020.
Ben collaborated with [[Hirzi Zulkiflie]] to create The BenZi Project ([https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCp-GIYWwweRLtmHmMhCCmJw YouTube channel]), a comedy sketch channel on YouTube. The series feature relatable scenarios faced by most Singaporeans such as 'The Halal Gap' ([https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PiGLXiaoRRg YouTube video]) and 'Code-Switching' ([https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mCnfF6Owc2s YouTube video]). Hirzi and Ben produce, direct and act in every episode of The Benzi Project. In a 2019 interview with ''8 Days'', Ben shared that the duo hoped to monetise The BenZi Project in the future.<ref>Fam, Jonathan. "[https://www.8days.sg/sceneandheard/celebrities/how-benjamin-kheng-and-hirzi-made-the-smartest-funniest-show-on-11675024 How Benjamin Kheng And Hirzi Made The Smartest & Funniest Show On The Internet]". ''8 Days''. June 30, 2019. Accessed on 19 November 2019.</ref>


===Radio DJ (May 2008 - November 2010)===
=== Discography ===
Benjamin Kheng started his journey in the entertainment industry as a radio DJ for Lush 99.5FM with two recurring programmes ‘The Art Of Lush’ and ‘The Lush Lab’.<ref>“[https://www.celebsmoney.com/net-worth/benjamin-kheng/ Benjamin Kheng]. ''Celebs Money''. Accessed on 11 January 2019. </ref>
[[File:Lovers Forever (2020) Ben Kheng.jpg|thumb|''The cover art for Lovers Forever (2020) Photo from [https://hear65.bandwagon.asia/albums/lovers-forever Hear65 Bandwagon Asia].'']]
{| class="wikitable"
!Date Released
!Song
!Duration
!Record Label(s)
|-
|10 April 2020
|Lovers Forever
|3:27
| rowspan="3" |Sony Music Entertainment Singapore
|-
|27 February 2020
|Find Me
|3:20
|-
|29 November 2019
|Wicked
|3:09
|}


==Social causes==
===Music collaborations<ref>“[https://open.spotify.com/artist/53GouHDfCfsBJIn1OjYmPO Benjamin Kheng]”. ''Spotify''. Accessed on 11 January 2019. </ref>===
[[File:Unmanly Men.jpg|thumb|''Andrew Marko (left) and Ben wrote the music and lyrics for The Benzi Project's Unmanly Men (2019).'']]
{| class="wikitable"
!Year
!Project
!Artist
!Refs.
|-
|2019
|Unmanly Men
|Andrew Marko
|[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sjXtoBGlSWY Video]
|-
| rowspan="2" |2017
|2017 BILLBOARD HITS MASHUP
|Vidi Aldiano
|[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1rwPhpiUDSk Video]
|-
|Sober
|Evan Low
|Video
|-
| rowspan="3" |2016
|YAYA
|[[THELIONCITYBOY (Kevin Lester)|THELIONCITYBOY]]
|Video
|-
|Comfortable & Blank
|Bittymacbeth
|Video
|-
|I Got All I Need (This Christmas)
|The Apex Project
|Video
|-
| rowspan="4" |2015
|Fight Song
|Kurt Hugo Schneider
|[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2kR3hmaikGI Video]
|-
|Bad Blood
|Kurt Hugo Schneider, Macy Kate
|Video
|-
|Strangers
|Debra Khng
|Video
|-
|Red & Blue
|[[ShiGGa Shay (Pek Jin Shen)|ShiGGa Shay]]
|Video
|}


===TEDxYouth@Singapore (2014)===
===The Sam Willows (2012 - 2019)===
The theme for TedxYouth in 2014 was “REGENERATION” and it aimed to change mindsets of Singaporean youth and empower them.<ref>TEDxYouth. [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=04-JxYnzcq0 Walk With Your Mind; Run With Your Heart: Benjamin Kheng at TEDxYouth@Singapore]. ''YouTube''. February 4, 2014. Accessed on 11 January 2019. </ref>  
The Sam Willows is comprised of Narelle Kheng, Jonathan Chua, Benjamin Kheng, Sandra Riley Tang. In late 2011, the quartet had first grouped to perform at their school’s alumni concert.<ref>Sumayao, Marco. “[http://www.mtvasia.com/news/8aemoz/the-sam-willows-learn-to-grow-up-without-ditching-fun The Sam Willows learn to grow up without ditching fun]”. ''MTV Asia''. July 13, 2018. Accessed on 11 January 2019.</ref> In May 2012, The Sam Willows uploaded their first mashup and cover of hit songs Hey Soul Sister by Train and We Are Young by Fun.<ref>The Sam Willows. "[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jT-d4dHOQ4g Hey Soul Sister/ We Are Young (Cover) - The Sam Willows]". ''YouTube''. May 3, 2012. Accessed on 17 April 2020.</ref> The video went viral and marked their rise to fame as a household name. On 27 May 2019, The Sam Willows announced that they were going on a hiatus.<ref>Tan, Kendra. "[https://www.8days.sg/sceneandheard/entertainment/the-sam-willows-are-taking-a-break-i-wish-i-had-more-drama-for-11572272 The Sam Willows Are Taking A Break: "I Wish I Had More Drama For You But We're All Still Good Friends"]". ''8 Days''. May 28, 2019. Accessed on 20 November 2019.</ref>  
 
==Other career highlights==
 
===The BenZi Project (2019 - present)===
During his talk titled "Walk With Your Mind; Run With Your Heart" ([https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=04-JxYnzcq0 YouTube video]), Benjamin Kheng spoke about how he overcame his anxiety disorder during his youth. He shared a story about how he was bullied in high school for being short and talked about his late mother and other pivotal experiences he had growing up. He stressed that to reach greater heights, one needs to embrace personal demons. Ben also shared the fact that he is a synesthete, a person who associates each music note with a unique person and colour.<ref>TedxYouth. "[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=04-JxYnzcq0 Walk With Your Mind; Run With Your Heart: Benjamin Kheng at TEDxYouth@Singapore]". ''YouTube''. February 4, 2014. Accessed on 21 October 2019.</ref>
[[File:The Benzi Project Code Switching.jpg|thumb|''Ben Kheng (right) and Hirzi (left) in Code Switching. Thumbnail from [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mCnfF6Owc2s YouTube].'']]
Ben collaborated with [[Hirzi Zulkiflie]] to create The BenZi Project ([https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCp-GIYWwweRLtmHmMhCCmJw YouTube channel]), a comedy sketch channel on YouTube. The series feature relatable scenarios faced by most Singaporeans such as The Halal Gap ([https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PiGLXiaoRRg YouTube video]) and Code-Switching ([https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mCnfF6Owc2s YouTube video]). Hirzi and Ben produce, direct and act in every episode of The Benzi Project. In a 2019 interview with ''8 Days'', Ben shared that the duo hoped to monetise The BenZi Project in the future.<ref>Fam, Jonathan. "[https://www.8days.sg/sceneandheard/celebrities/how-benjamin-kheng-and-hirzi-made-the-smartest-funniest-show-on-11675024 How Benjamin Kheng And Hirzi Made The Smartest & Funniest Show On The Internet]". ''8 Days''. June 30, 2019. Accessed on 19 November 2019.</ref>


===Volunteer at Singapore Cancer Society===
===TEDxYouth@Singapore (2014) - Speaker===
Benjamin Kheng is a regular volunteer at the Singapore Cancer Society (SCS). He has been volunteering for the SCS since 2016 and has performed at many of their events including the ‘Relay for Life’, a marathon event, with his sister.<ref>Tay, Winston. [https://www.youth.sg/Spotted/People/2018/2/A-cause-close-to-Benjamin-Kheng-heart A cause close to Benjamin Kheng's heart]. ''Youth.sg''. February 2, 2014. Accessed on 11 January 2019. </ref>
During his talk titled Walk With Your Mind; Run With Your Heart ([https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=04-JxYnzcq0 YouTube video]), Benjamin Kheng spoke about how he overcame his anxiety disorder during his youth. He shared a story about how he was bullied in high school for being short and talked about his late mother and other pivotal experiences he had growing up. He stressed that to reach greater heights, one needs to embrace personal demons. Ben also shared the fact that he is a synesthete, a person who associates each music note with a unique person and colour.<ref>TedxYouth. "[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=04-JxYnzcq0 Walk With Your Mind; Run With Your Heart: Benjamin Kheng at TEDxYouth@Singapore]". ''YouTube''. February 4, 2014. Accessed on 21 October 2019.</ref>


==References / Citation==
==References / Citation==
<references />
<references />
[[Category:People of Interest]]
[[Category:People of Interest]]

Revision as of 10:49, 17 April 2020

Benjamin Kheng
Ben Kheng Spotify.png
Born15 August 1990
EducationDiploma in Arts and Theatre Management
Alma materAnglo-Chinese School (Primary), Anglo-Chinese School (Independent), Singapore Sports School, Republic Polytechnic

Benjamin Kheng (born 15 August 1990) is a Singaporean musician and actor. Popularly known as the vocalist of The Sam Willows, he has been producing solo music and creating comedy sketches with Hirzi Zulkiflie on The Benzi Project as of 2019. He was also a former national swimmer and a radio DJ for Lush 99.5FM.[1]

Background

Early life & family

Benjamin Kheng was born on 15 August 1990 to Kheng Meng Siong and Regina.[2] He is the older brother of Narelle Kheng.[3] As children, their mother had exposed them to classical composers like Tchaikovsky and Bach.[4] In 2002, they lost their mother to Stage 2 breast cancer after her four-year-long battle.[5][6] Ben began swimming competitively at six years old. He had been a part of the Swimfast Aquatic Club, managed by a former national swimmer, David Lim.[7]

Education

Ben attended Anglo-Chinese School (Primary) before enrolling into Anglo-Chinese School (Independent) through the Direct School Admissions (DSA) programme.[8] He had then transferred to the Singapore Sports School to pursue competitive swimming.[9] During his time there, Ben was a part of the national youth team, specialising in long-distance events and the individual medley. In 2005, he won the Queensland State Championships for the boys' 200 m individual medley at a timing of 2:16.92.[10][11] In 2006, Benjamin Kheng was presented with the National Schools Colours Award in recognition of his sporting achievements.[12]


Ben furthered his studies in Republic Polytechnic's Arts and Theatre Management course. In 2009, he was a part of The Little Prince (Act 3 International) production at the Shanghai International Children's Theatre Festival.[13]

Relationships

Engagement to Naomi Yeo (2020)

Photo credit to Phoenix Casuarina. Retrieved from 8 Days.

Ben and Naomi made their relationship public in September 2019.[14] Before that, they had worked on projects together as colleagues - having been cast members in shows like The Intruder (2019). In March 2020, Ben and Naomi posted photos of their engagement onto their respective Instagram accounts.[15][16] The proposal had been captured by New Zealand-based photographer, Phoenix Casuarina. Ben had proposed to Naomi at Lindis Pass in Southern New Zealand.[17][18] The couple had been on holiday at the time. It was also revealed that Ben had asked Naomi's parents for their blessings four months prior to his proposal.[19]

Acting career highlights

As of April 2020, Benjamin Kheng is signed to Fly Entertainment, managed by Irene Ang.[20]

Acting & hosting

Ben pictured as Adam in The Intruder (2019). Photo from source.

In 2019, Ben was a part of an international cast for No Sleep No FOMO. The eight-part reality travelogue show featured local and international personalities like Eric Nam, Nat Ho and Paul Foster. In each episode, members explore new cities and while completing missions.[21][22]

Year Title of Production Role Refs.
2019 No Sleep No FOMO Host [23][24]
The Intruder Adam [25]
2018 FAM! Main character [26][27]
2017 Wonderboy Richard Lee -
The Breakup List Luke Wong [28]
2016 Can You Not?! Jason [29]

Theatre

Year Title of Play Character Company Refs.
2014 Ah Boys To Men: The Musical Ken Chow Running Into The Sun [30]
2013 Edges The Musical Main character Sight Lines Productions [31]
Romeo & Juliet Romeo Toy Factory Singapore [32]
2012 National Broadway Company Dick Lee Theatreworks [33]
Boom Real estate agent Sight Lines Productions [34][35]
2009 The Little Prince Titular Character Act 3 International [36][37]

Music career highlights

As of April 2020, Ben is managed by Sony Music Entertainment Singapore.[38] He has an estimated 139,500 monthly listeners on Spotify as of 17 April 2020.

Discography

The cover art for Lovers Forever (2020) Photo from Hear65 Bandwagon Asia.
Date Released Song Duration Record Label(s)
10 April 2020 Lovers Forever 3:27 Sony Music Entertainment Singapore
27 February 2020 Find Me 3:20
29 November 2019 Wicked 3:09

Music collaborations[39]

Andrew Marko (left) and Ben wrote the music and lyrics for The Benzi Project's Unmanly Men (2019).
Year Project Artist Refs.
2019 Unmanly Men Andrew Marko Video
2017 2017 BILLBOARD HITS MASHUP Vidi Aldiano Video
Sober Evan Low Video
2016 YAYA THELIONCITYBOY Video
Comfortable & Blank Bittymacbeth Video
I Got All I Need (This Christmas) The Apex Project Video
2015 Fight Song Kurt Hugo Schneider Video
Bad Blood Kurt Hugo Schneider, Macy Kate Video
Strangers Debra Khng Video
Red & Blue ShiGGa Shay Video

The Sam Willows (2012 - 2019)

The Sam Willows is comprised of Narelle Kheng, Jonathan Chua, Benjamin Kheng, Sandra Riley Tang. In late 2011, the quartet had first grouped to perform at their school’s alumni concert.[40] In May 2012, The Sam Willows uploaded their first mashup and cover of hit songs Hey Soul Sister by Train and We Are Young by Fun.[41] The video went viral and marked their rise to fame as a household name. On 27 May 2019, The Sam Willows announced that they were going on a hiatus.[42]

Other career highlights

The BenZi Project (2019 - present)

Ben Kheng (right) and Hirzi (left) in Code Switching. Thumbnail from YouTube.

Ben collaborated with Hirzi Zulkiflie to create The BenZi Project (YouTube channel), a comedy sketch channel on YouTube. The series feature relatable scenarios faced by most Singaporeans such as The Halal Gap (YouTube video) and Code-Switching (YouTube video). Hirzi and Ben produce, direct and act in every episode of The Benzi Project. In a 2019 interview with 8 Days, Ben shared that the duo hoped to monetise The BenZi Project in the future.[43]

TEDxYouth@Singapore (2014) - Speaker

During his talk titled Walk With Your Mind; Run With Your Heart (YouTube video), Benjamin Kheng spoke about how he overcame his anxiety disorder during his youth. He shared a story about how he was bullied in high school for being short and talked about his late mother and other pivotal experiences he had growing up. He stressed that to reach greater heights, one needs to embrace personal demons. Ben also shared the fact that he is a synesthete, a person who associates each music note with a unique person and colour.[44]

References / Citation

  1. "Benjamin Kheng | FLY Entertainment". FLY Entertainment. Accessed on 21 October 2019.
  2. "Benjamin Kheng | Wiki | Asian Music Amino". aminoapps.com. Accessed on 21 October 2019.
  3. Tan, Corrie. "THE LIFE! INTERVIEW WITH Benjamin Kheng; Star turn". The Straits Times. April 21, 2014. Accessed on 21 October 2019. Retrieved from Factiva.
  4. Yeo, Melissa. "10 Narelle Kheng Facts That’ll Make You Fall In Love With Her". Must Share News. December 3, 2015. Accessed on 21 October 2019.
  5. Noor, Ashikin Abdul Rahman. "For Love of Mum: The deeper meaning behind The Sam Willows' MV". The New Paper. October 23, 2015. Accessed on 21 October 2019.
  6. Tay, Winston. "A cause close to Benjamin Kheng's heart". Youth.sg. February 2, 2018. Accessed on 17 April 2020.
  7. Tan, Corrie. “Star turn”. The Straits Times. April 23, 2014. Accessed on 21 October 2019.
  8. Hannah. "Local musician Benjamin Kheng shares heartwarming PSLE story in viral post". Young Parents. November 29, 2016. Accessed on 17 April 2020.
  9. Ho, Ai Li. “They want the best of both worlds”. The Straits Times. November 8, 2004. Accessed on 21 October 2019. Retrieved from Factiva.
  10. “Home Sports”. The Straits Times. January 11, 2005. Accessed on 21 October 2019. Retrieved from Factiva
  11. “Sports School continue golden run”. Today. August 11, 2006. Accessed on 21 October 2019. Retrieved from Factiva.
  12. “2006 National Schools Colours Award winners”. The Straits Times. October 24, 2006. Accessed on 21 October 2019. Retrieved from Factiva.
  13. Tan, Corrie. “Star turn”. The Straits Times. April 23, 2014. Accessed on 21 October 2019.
  14. Fong, Victor. “BENJAMIN KHENG ‘MADE PUBLIC’ ABOUT HIS RELATIONSHIP WITH 987FM’S NAOMI YEO”. GoodyFeed. September 26, 2019. Accessed on 23 March 2020.
  15. naomiyhs. Instagram. March 16, 2020. Accessed on 23 March 2020. Retrieved from: https://www.instagram.com/p/B9wNnPUpFgP/
  16. benjaminkheng. Instagram. March 18, 2020. Accessed on 23 March 2020. Retrieved from: https://www.instagram.com/p/B91j14OFBXE/
  17. Sam Willows' Benjamin Kheng gets engaged to part-time 987 DJ Naomi Yeo”. CNA Lifestyle. March 14, 2020. Accessed on 23 March 2020.
  18. Lee, Wei Lin. “Benjamin Kheng Proposed To His Girlfriend Naomi Yeo And She Had Just The Cutest Response”. 8Days. March 14, 2020. Accessed on 23 March 2020.
  19. naomiyhs. Instagram. March 16, 2020. Accessed on 23 March 2020. Retrieved from: https://www.instagram.com/p/B9wXaLxJJQ9/
  20. "Benjamin Kheng | FLY Entertainment". FLY Entertainment. Accessed on 21 October 2019.
  21. "Viu’s No Sleep No FOMO Cast Members Share Their Filming Experiences". HallyuSG. March 20, 2019. Accessed on 21 October 2019.
  22. Tetchie. "Viu Original “No Sleep No FOMO” Cast Members Showcase An Amazing Launch Party". hellokpop.com. March 22, 2019. Accessed on 21 October 2019.
  23. "Viu’s No Sleep No FOMO Cast Members Share Their Filming Experiences". HallyuSG. March 20, 2019. Accessed on 21 October 2019.
  24. Tetchie. "Viu Original “No Sleep No FOMO” Cast Members Showcase An Amazing Launch Party". hellokpop.com. March 22, 2019. Accessed on 21 October 2019.
  25. "The Intruder - EP 1". MeWatch. January 3, 2019. Accessed on 17 April 2020.
  26. "Singapore sitcom 'FAM!' nominated for International Emmy Award". Yahoo. September 21, 2019. Accessed on 15 October 2019.
  27. "Nominees - International Academy of Television Art & Sciences". International Academy of Television Arts & Sciences. Accessed on 15 October 2019.
  28. "The Breakup List". MeWatch. Accessed on 17 April 2020.
  29. "Can You Not?! - The Full Webseries". YouTube. September 1, 2016. Accessed on 17 April 2020.
  30. Ng, Gwendolyn. “Hit local military movie Ah Boys To Men to become musical”. The Straits Times. February 5, 2014. Accessed on 11 January 2019.
  31. Tan, Corrie. "Gen Y angst in song and dance". The Straits Times. April 1, 2013. Accessed on 21 October 2019. Retrieved from Factiva.
  32. Pham, Larry. “It Is My Lady - A Song From Romeo & Juliet by Toy Factory Productions”. YouTube. January 28, 2014. Accessed on 11 January 2019.
  33. "Singapore theatre's 1980s zeitgeist". The Business Times. August 17, 2012. Accessed on 21 October 2019. Retrieved from Factiva.
  34. "Inkpot Review: Boom by Sight Lines Productions". inkpotreviews.com. 2012. Accessed on 21 October 2019.
  35. Martin, Mayo. "Grave issues ; A trip to Bukit Brown Cemetery moves the folks behind Boom". Today. June 19, 2012. Accessed on 21 October 2019. Retrieved from Factiva.
  36. "Bless the children". The Straits Times. July 22, 2009. Accessed on 21 October 2019.
  37. Ng, Magdalen. "Singapore showcase in Shanghai". The Straits Times. July 9, 2009. Accessed on 21 October 2019. Retrieved from Factiva.
  38. "Benjamin Kheng". Instagram. Accessed on 17 April 2020.
  39. Benjamin Kheng”. Spotify. Accessed on 11 January 2019.
  40. Sumayao, Marco. “The Sam Willows learn to grow up without ditching fun”. MTV Asia. July 13, 2018. Accessed on 11 January 2019.
  41. The Sam Willows. "Hey Soul Sister/ We Are Young (Cover) - The Sam Willows". YouTube. May 3, 2012. Accessed on 17 April 2020.
  42. Tan, Kendra. "The Sam Willows Are Taking A Break: "I Wish I Had More Drama For You But We're All Still Good Friends"". 8 Days. May 28, 2019. Accessed on 20 November 2019.
  43. Fam, Jonathan. "How Benjamin Kheng And Hirzi Made The Smartest & Funniest Show On The Internet". 8 Days. June 30, 2019. Accessed on 19 November 2019.
  44. TedxYouth. "Walk With Your Mind; Run With Your Heart: Benjamin Kheng at TEDxYouth@Singapore". YouTube. February 4, 2014. Accessed on 21 October 2019.