Vassal Benford, a luminary in the music industry, has recently made a significant impact on the smooth jazz scene with his debut single, “Melody Man.” Released in 2022, the track quickly became the #1 most added song on the Billboard Smooth Jazz Chart, showcasing Benford’s seamless transition from behind-the-scenes producer to front-stage artist.
His passion for jazz was evident early on when, at the age of 16, he penned his first hit song, “Michelle,” for jazz pianist Ramsey Lewis.
This early success set the stage for a prolific career that includes writing and producing over 57 Platinum hit albums for industry giants like Jennifer Lopez, Michael Bublé, Jason Derulo, Justin Bieber, Nicki Minaj, Toni Braxton, David Guetta, Anuel, Diplo, Major Lazer, Marshmello, French Montana, Erika Jayne, Swae Lee, NBA YoungBoy, Quavo (Migos), Nas, Flo Rida, B.B. King, U2, Richie Sambora (Bon Jovi), Queen Latifah, The Jacksons, Mariah Carey, Rick Ross, Deborah Cox, DJ Diplo, with the track “Be Right There,” performed by Major Lazer and Marshmello, amassing over a billion internet streams.
In addition to his musical endeavors, Benford has made significant contributions to the film industry. He served as the executive producer for the successful film series “After,” “After We Collided,” and “After We Fell,” which collectively grossed over $600 million at the box office and became top streaming movies on Netflix.
Not one to rest on his laurels, Benford recently made a triumphant leap into the smooth jazz arena. His hit single, “Melody Man,” became a sensation, reaching the top of the Billboard Smooth Jazz charts and cementing his place as a trailblazer in the genre. Tracks like “Dedication Song” followed, racking up 7 millions views and earning accolades, including a prestigious YouTube Creator Award.
In 2025, Benford’s smooth jazz mastery earned him a prestigious Grammy nomination with Chris Brown, Album of the year , further validating his artistic evolution. His ability to merge soulful melodies with modern rhythms has captivated audiences, breathing new life into the genre.
As Chairman of the BB King Estate Vassal Benford is Spearheading a series of highly anticipated film projects. At the forefront is the BB King Movie, a heartfelt tribute to the legendary blues icon that is set to become a cultural phenomenon. Joining this ambitious lineup are the Spencer Haywood Movie, , and his own Vassal Benford Project, which has the potential to sweep awards season with its compelling narrative and masterful direction.
What sets Vassal Benford apart is his ability to blend artistry with business acumen, creating a legacy that spans music, film, and beyond. Whether crafting pop hits, redefining smooth jazz, or producing blockbuster films, Benford continues to inspire and shape the entertainment landscape.
As a Grammy-nominated artist and entertainment mogul, Vassal Benford’s career is a story of reinvention, ambition, and excellence—one that shows no signs of slowing down. With each new venture, he reaffirms his status as a true icon in the arts.