Headliner Chicago Exclusive:
​An interview with Benjamin Ingrosso

by Rudy Segovia
Headliner Chicago

Benjamin Ingrosso is a Swedish singer, songwriter, and record producer known for his versatile talents. In 2018, he won the Eurovision Song Contest with his track "Dance You Off," representing Sweden. Entertainment runs through his veins, having started his career in theater as a child, appeared on a celebrity dance show, and even hosted his own television show. Benjamin is now gearing up for his first US tour in support of his latest album, Pink Velvet Theatre. In the interview below, he shares insights on preparing for the US tour, his Eurovision experience, and collaborating with the legendary Nile Rodgers. The tour kicks off in Chicago on February 7.

Headliner Chicago: You’re kicking off your US tour in Chicago. Tell me about this tour in the USA and starting in Chicago – have you ever been to the city before?  
 
Benjamin Ingrosso: It’s my first time ever in Chicago! I’ve been to LA and New York before, but I’m really looking forward to exploring some new cities on this tour. 
 
Headliner Chicago: Tell us about the album Pink Velvet Theatre and the vibe you wanted to create on the album. 
 
Benjamin Ingrosso: The title Pink Velvet Theatre came to me really early in the process and became this universe where I could be creative within a certain frame. I was very inspired by old school musicals and legendary artists like Elton John and Queen and created this Romeo and Juliet kind of love story that develops through the songs on the album. It’s a roller coaster ride of emotions!
 
Headliner Chicago: Tell us about putting this tour together and what fans can expect on your USA debut.
 
Benjamin Ingrosso: ​Performing live is really my favorite part of being an artist, and I put a lot of effort into my tours. This one will have a sexy 70s vibe to it, it should almost feel like you're stepping into my bedroom. And I’m bringing four good looking Swedish musicians with me on stage, just saying…
 
Headliner Chicago: You’ve been in the entertainment industry your whole life. From the stage to a dance competition show and creating your own music. Tell me how all these experiences shaped the artist you are today.
 
Benjamin Ingrosso: It’s been a weird way of growing up for sure. I wasn’t forced at all to choose the same job as my parents, I just really fell in love with the whole performing world while running back stage as a kid. I love getting into character, creating music, and stories that connect with people. The competitions have taught me a lot, but I feel that it’s for the last 5-6 years I've really started to develop my artistry and songwriting in a direction that I really love. 
 
Headliner Chicago: Most fans in the USA got introduced to your music via your winning performance of ‘Dance You Off’ at Eurovision in 2018 and your return last year. From an artist perspective, what was that experience like and how has it changed your life?
 
Benjamin Ingrosso: Eurovision was the starting point of my international career, that was of course a very big and important step for me. It’s a competition filled with so many wonderful people! Returning last year with the medley really being a full circle moment. 
 
Headliner Chicago: Who are some of your inspirations when it comes to music and in general?
 
Benjamin Ingrosso: I’ve always been a sucker for old school musicals and music from the 50s, 60s and 70s. Elton John and Queen have been big favorites since I was a kid. I was also listening a lot to Franz Ferdinand and Sade too when I wrote this record. 
 
Headliner Chicago: ⁠Can we chat about one of my favorite tracks “Honey Boy” with Purple Disco Machine and Nile Rodgers? How did that song and collaboration come to be?
 
Benjamin Ingrosso: Yes please! It’s such a dream come true for me. We basically discussed artists that could fit the song, and kind of joked about Nile Rodgers since he’s the funkiest guitarist alive. So we decided to send the song to him, with absolutely no expectations, and he fell in love with it and decided to join. Purple Disco Machine and Shenseea then just came in and lifted the song to disco perfection. I’m so happy with how it turned out!
 
Headliner Chicago: Anything you’re looking forward to experiencing or doing during your time in Chicago and the US in general?
 
Benjamin Ingrosso: Since I’m a real foodie, every time I travel I try to hit the best restaurants in each town. I heard Chicago has some great Italian food, I’m half Italian so I’m looking forward to some Italian American fusion. 

Benjamin Ingrosso 
February 7 at 8pm

House of Blues
329 N. Dearborn
purchase tickets at Ticketmaster.com 

Click here for a Pink Velvet Theatre album preview