Superstar Runner

“Y’know what my favorite thing about you is, Ben? Over the course of an average day, I’ll talk to five or six dime-store optimists who are busy finding silver linings of clouds without rain in them. But you… you could be buried alive underneath a major body of water, and you’d still be updating your status with stuff like “the casket’s lined with velvet so it doesn’t scratch… and it’s not too hot down here (by the way, you’re still my favorite).” That’s commitment, and your commitment to being optimistic is awe-inspiring.” - Eric Mayle

“This gentleman is an Indie-Vocal-Pop artist that delivered a powerful message with each lyric. The passion behind each key or chord struck did not go unnoticed by those listening.” - Deitra Magazine

“Heritage/Lineage/Hand-Me-Downs/Scars reflects the wide-eyed optimism of singer-songwriter Ben Johnson, the lone member of Superstar Runner. Results of this record will vary with how jaded you are when you first listen. It’s a relentlessly positive affair and charming in its simplicity.

‘Advice From People Who Shouldn’t Give It (Don’t Take It)’ sounds more than a little like it was born in Conor Oberst’s bedroom. The intimate acoustic track grows and grows as Johnson signs more emphatically about not letting the naysayers of the world bring you down. It turns into a singalong with friends and, at one point, a human beat box. It’s a relatively raucous affair for a singer-songwriter, but the approach works for Superstar Runner.

‘Just A Lullaby’ plays like an indie version of ‘Hey There Delilah’, which isn’t necessarily a backhanded compliment. It’s a beautiful little song sent out to the world with lyrics that are almost too sweet to swallow. It’s an anthem for misplaced teenagers negotiating the awkward space between boy and girl on a sunny afternoon with the shades pulled low. The songs are built around either guitar or piano, which keeps the album moving along without getting buried by its own optimism. ‘The Next Life Available (Is This One)’ adds electronic beats to the fray to give it a slightly edgier sound than your standard Ben Folds track.

Superstar Runner keeps the listener engaged more times than not over the 38 minutes by wearing its over-sized heart on its sleeve. Much like the title of the record, Johnson wants to share a lot with you on this record and his enthusiasm about life should not deter you from listening.” - Sun on the Sand (Jason Lent)

“Could I interview you for a school project??? It’s 12 questions from my careers book that I have to ask someone with an interesting job which happens to be you.” - Nicolette Peterson


“Dear Ben Johnson, 
I just wanted to say that I’m glad I stuck around last night to listen to you! I really enjoyed your music.. keep doing what you do :)
- Sara Homan

“I will tell you this [Ben], as far as I know 
I have not met anyone 
that is true to themselves 
and the world as you. 
Im really happy i met you. 
Dont ever sacrafice your freedom 
for being part of the real world 
its not worth it.” - MaryAnn Siple

“You have a knack for saying what we are wanting to hear from other people … I suppose that helps in the ol songwriting venture.” - Andy Allen

“Could you tell how quiet everyone was through that whole song? That song really made me feel. I was blindsighted” - Rosalina (upon hearing, I Am An Avalanche.) 

“You have a distinctive and even captivating voice.” - Ronald Bayes (Pulitzer Prize Nominee)

“Man, you have a really nice voice. Normally, we play with a bunch of screamo/metal/hardcore bands. It’s nice to hear someone who can actually sing. It’s refreshing.” - Jordan/Artifex Pereo

“For a solo act, you know how to pull it off.” - Artifex Pereo

“Sometimes, I listen to Ben’s music, and I don’t actually think that it’s his. I hear it and I think, ‘Did he actually write this?’ because it sounds like it was written by a professional.” - Brett
Moser (a good friend)

“I heard you tonight at the Front Porch and instantly fell in love with your voice. It’s like manchester orchestra and the decemberists. just perfect.” - Kayla

“Ben, I saw you for the first time in Philly by the train. As I sat there waiting for my train i was blessed by the pleasantry of your voice and as i sat there listening to the words you were singing i felt an instant attraction to your voice and words. I never ever give any money to “street performers” but i was inclined to come and give u a few bucks. I even asked you if the song you were singing was an “original” because it was soooo good! I then asked you if you were on youtube or something becasue i wanted to hear more of your stuff. You showed me your marked up guitar with superstar runner smeared on. I need to have that song! I dont know what its called but you said you havent posted it yet. I think what you are doing is great and hope i have the opportunity to see you at a venue soon or at very least get to hear you again live. Please post that song so i can hear it again! I also like your song “Goodbye New Jersey”. You have inspired me at 41 to take a look at my life and heart and again realize what my passion is. I thank you for performing and touring the land sharing your passion!
Bless you!” - Thom (A businessman I met while street performing in Philadelphia)