Benjamin Burnley is the lead vocalist, primary composer, founder, and producer of the American rock band Breaking Benjamin. Burnley has been the only permanent member of the band since its inception in 1999, performing songwriting, lead vocals, and guitar. Benjamin, together with his band Breaking Benjamin, signed his first record contract with Hollywood records in 2002. Since then, he has created many phenomenally successful studio albums, many of which have achieved platinum or gold status in the United States. The American rock artist has had the privilege of playing with many amazing musicians over the course of his musical career, as well as recording with some of them, including rock icon and former three days grace singer Adam Gontier as well as the band smashing pumpkins.
Before migrating to Pennsylvania with his family at age twelve, Burnley spent his early years in New Jersey. Burnley dropped out of high school at age 16 and got his GED to pursue his goal of being a professional musician; his interest as a musician was ignited by Nirvana, his favorite band and key creative influence, and by the album Nevermind in particular. A few years later, Ben Burnley was able to stay afloat by performing unique takes on cover songs at places that promoted local artists. He also had the opportunity to play at cafes and restaurants that welcomed him. However, after he turned 21, he moved in with former bandmate Jonathan Price, which ultimately led to the formation of Breaking Benjamin.
DJ Freddie Fabbri of the popular rock radio station WBSX brought attention to the band Breaking Benjamin by playing their song "Polyamorous," which became the most requested single on the station. Due to this, the DJ decided to sponsor an EP for Breaking Benjamin, which sold over 2,000 copies shortly after its release, catching the attention of various record labels since this was a significant quantity for an unsigned new band to sell so quickly. The band ultimately decided to sign with Hollywood Records, resulting in the August 7, 2002 release of Saturate, their first full-length album on a major label. The record's rapid ascent to Gold level in terms of album sales led to Benjamin Berley's emergence as a rock icon and recognized musician.