Fresh off the release of his breakout single “Life Again,” Queens native and rising hip hop artist Ben Bacardi has been officially nominated for Song of the Year – Hip Hop at the 2025 Josie Music Awards for his track “Life Again”.
About the Song “Life Again”
Released on February 18, 2025 by Tribeca Records, “Life Again” features notable Queens artists Pelle and H. The song blends classic New York hip hop influences—echoing Jay Z, Biggie, Nas, Wu Tang, Mobb Deep—with deeply personal lyrics about renewal and overcoming adversity.The accompanying music video, released in early April, visually dramatizes this theme of transformation and resilience.
Ben’s Inspirational Journey
Born and raised in Fresh Meadows, Queens, Ben Bacardi juggles his burgeoning music career with running a thriving home inspection business in NYC. Inspired by hip hop legends and spurred by a life impacting battle with depression and anxiety, he discovered music as a healing outlet—catalyzing his creative return and the release of his debut EP, Prescription to Rap.
Since reentering the studio, he’s recorded over 100 songs and collaborated with Queens rap legends like Royal Flush, Pelle, and Boots.
About the Josie Music Awards
Founded in 2015, the Josie Music Awards celebrates excellence in independent music, spanning genres from country and rock to hip hop and R&B. Nominees are selected by a panel of industry professionals, and winners are honored annually in Nashville each fall.
The 2025 awards ceremony is set for November 1–2, 2025, with events at the Belle Air Mansion and Grand Ole Opry House in Nashville.
Significance of the Nomination
Being recognized in the “Song of the Year – Hip Hop” category is a significant milestone for Ben. In 2024, that category was awarded to Nige B for “Hold Your Heart (remix),” highlighting the fierce competition and prestige associated with this honor.
Ben’s nomination signals that the independent music community sees him as a rising voice in hip hop, celebrating his authentic storytelling and unique journey.
Spotlight on “Life Again
Listeners can stream the song and music video across platforms. It’s a compelling track that mixes nostalgic NY rap with a modern narrative of hope, making it a powerful contender for award recognition.
Watch the Ben Bacardi “Life Again” music video on Youtube here:
https://youtu.be/-88CBA23Tc0?si=mxUenOAoU5z-syzH
Ben Bacardi’s nomination for Song of the Year – Hip Hop at the 2025 Josie Music Awards marks a major step in his career. From Queens upbringing and entrepreneurial hustle to personal healing and musical breakthrough, his journey is emblematic of the power of independent artistry. As he awaits the November ceremony, one thing is clear: “Life Again” has already breathed new vitality into his path—and possibly into hip hop at large.
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