San Francisco singer-songwriter/multi-instrumentalist Said Sara (aka David Benson) is coming full-circle. The alt-folk acoustic Said Sara is a genuine extension of singer-songwriter David Benson’s musical and psychological essence. Its music is as all-encompassing as it is personal. As a child of the 70’s, he grew up on the singer-songwriters of that era: Stevens, Croce, Taylor, Buckingham. But Benson was/is a metalhead and a punk (yes, both) in the 80s, 90s and beyond. Benson wrote dark, stripped-down hymns in the early-mid 90s, which never saw the light of day until Said Sara’s self-titled EP was released in 2020.
By Kamil Bobin
Discovered via Musosoup
Kamil) Hey Said Sara, super nice to have the chance to chat with you. How has the time gone for you since our last interview?
It's been good. My band Acephalix released an album and played a couple of festival shows. Once that cooled down, I had the opportunity to refocus on Said Sara and write 'Same.'
What’s your strongest memory of your childhood?
Moving from house to house starting at the age of 4. My parents separated when I was very young. Also, music. Some of my earliest memories are of listening to my parents' records: Fleetwood Mac's self titled album, Dave Mason, Willie Nelson, etc.
Your latest track is 'Same'. Can you share with us the background of its creation and did any unusual things happen during its creation?
The music practically wrote itself. I was done in 2 sittings. They lyrics, on the other hand, took many weeks. I sang in my car over rough mixes, trying to get the phrasing down. There were multiple drafts.
Is the artistic life lonely? What do you do to counteract it?
Said Sara is the epitome of lonely, since it's just me. I often feel like I'm on an island with these feelings, so it's a great relief -- and release -- when other ears come into the picture. This said, being in a band is tough as well: with scheduling, personalities, etc.
What is your dream project?
Said Sara IS my dream project. It came to me in a dream.
What advice would you have for someone wanting to follow in your footsteps?
Record yourself then listen back... over and over and over. Bring in someone you love to listen, but who can listen objectively. Beyond that, stop caring what people think.
What can we expect from Said Sara in the near future?
Live dates this summer!