EXCLUSIVE: “Promote Yourself Without Shame,” Says Stebin Ben

Stebin Ben has emerged as one of India’s most sought-after pop singers, celebrated for his melodious voice, versatility, and seamless ability to connect with audiences. From viral chartbusters to high-profile live shows, he has carved a niche as a complete entertainer. His breakthrough came with Thoda thoda pyaar in 2021, which catapulted him to nationwide fame. Since then, hits like Rula ke gaya ishq, Baarish ban jaana, and Sahiba have made him the voice behind stars such as Vijay Deverakonda, Akshay Kumar, Emraan Hashmi, Shahid Kapoor, and Sidharth Malhotra. While many struggle to balance independent and mainstream music, Stebin has done so with ease. Excerpts from a heartfelt interview:

 

Which singers have inspired you?
Would you ever consider acting?
What did you aspire to when you first came to Mumbai?
So most of your earnings come from live shows?
What was your big turning point? 
Who would you love to playback for next?
What would you say to small-town dreamers heading to Mumbai?
What makes you feel relaxed?
How did your parents react to your success?
Do they live with you now?
Five songs you always have on your playlist?

Which singers have inspired you?

I started with Pritam’s songs like In dino and

Ek din teri raahon mein. Over time, I drew inspiration from Sonu Nigam, KK, Atif Aslam, and Arijit Singh.

 

Would you ever consider acting?

Definitely. I’ve acted in my music videos, and I enjoy it. If I ever step into films, I’d love to play a singer or rockstar, something rooted in music. Maybe a romantic film with a strong musical narrative. That’s where

I’d want to start.

What did you aspire to when you first came to Mumbai?

My first goal was to settle here. Financial stability was crucial. I needed to show my parents that music could support me. I dreamt of singing in a film, owning a home,

and driving my own

car in Mumbai.

So most of your earnings come from live shows?

Absolutely. While playback is picking up, Sahiba and Thoda thoda pyaar did well, live gigs are what really sustained me. They’ve helped me build everything: more gigs, more investments, and yes, more cars and homes. I even think about how to become a billionaire, my mind works like that.

What was your big turning point? 

I was almost ready to leave Mumbai and go back to Bhopal. But I chose instead to start over with small gigs. I performed at a club where no one was listening at first, people were eating and drinking. But by the end, they were on their feet, dancing on tables. That changed everything. It made me realise I could rebuild from scratch. You had to let go of fear…

Exactly. I stopped waiting and stepped out of my comfort zone. That one small show was the push I needed.

Who would you love to playback for next?

I’ve already sung for Emraan Hashmi, Shahid Kapoor, and Sidharth Malhotra. I’d love to sing for Ranbir Kapoor next. He emotes every note. And, of course, Shah Rukh Khan. I’m a huge fan.

What would you say to small-town dreamers heading to Mumbai?

Don’t wait for opportunities, create them. Knock on doors every day. Promote yourself without shame, because no one else will do it for you. Be around the right people and keep pushing forward.

What makes you feel relaxed?

Nice weather. Travelling. Meeting new people and learning new things. I’ve developed a passion for many things, including figuring out how to become a billionaire. That’s my happy place.

How did your parents react to your success?

They were supportive once they saw I was financially stable. But when I bought my first home in Mumbai, they truly felt I had ‘made it’. For them, success isn’t awards, it’s security.

Do they live with you now?

Yes, they moved here during the lockdown and it’s been five years. Coming home to them after a long day is the best feeling.

Five songs you always have on your playlist?

1. Khabar nahi

Dostana

2. O jaana na jaana

dil tera deewana

Salman Khan classic

3. Aate jaate

jo milta hai

Another Salman favourite

4. Tum se hi

From Jab We Met,

a timeless melody starring Shahid Kapoor

5. Sahiba

One song of my own, which is a favourite

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