Ben Fagan formed his Holy City Hooligans band in early 2011, driven by the vision to “spread positivity to the masses!” He started laying the foundation for this as lead singer for his college rock band. Just about to graduate, he was spotted at a gig by a reality show recruiter who invited him to audition. Ultimately, as the show’s grand prize winner, he returned home to write music and perform as frontman and “backbone” of his Charleston-based Plainfield Project band. Earning heavy rotation on Charleston adult comtemporary radio for its ska/reggae-influenced rock, the band drew a following that packed local and regional venues.[youtube gF8y7ylE2_k nolink]
Ever-evolving, Fagan’s latest muse has inspired a fresh fusion of island vibes, urban funk, and hip pop on the Hooligans’ debut cd, “The Freestyle Sessions 1.” Showcasing Fagan’s powerful but ever-smooth vocals and colorful bass riffs, the album’s eight road-tested tracks also feature some of Charleston’s favorite talents such as Righchus (voted best hip-hop artist 2 years), members from the Plainfield Project (voted best local band 3 years), and Fagan Brothers (Ben joined by his older brother and mentor, Chris Fagan). “You have to do something different, these days, to rise above all of the music out there,” says Fagan. “I’ve tried straight rock and pop but nothing makes sense to me like funky, soulful grooves. I’m blending hip-hop beats with the chill vibes and positive message of reggae and funk to create a dance-able, feel-good experience.”
