Ben Harper's funky acoustic soul and melodic rock has seen him rise from cult status amongst loyal fans to a figurehead for singer/song writers and live performers. Growing up in Claremont, California, he started listening and writing music at an early age. With interests varying between soul, funk and reggae he learnt such instruments as the Weissenborn guitar - which later became his signature instrument. He was signed by Virgin after releasing Pleasure and Pain on vinyl in 1992, and in 1994, he put out his debut LP, Welcome to the Cruel World. In 1995 Harper maintained his image as a politically minded musician through his sophomore album, Fight For Your Mind. The Will to Live, which was released in 1997 became his first of many collaborative attempts with The Innocent Criminals and two years on he released his most successful album Burn To Shine. In 2001, he released a double CD titled Live From Mars, which amplified his electric and acoustic talents as well as his ability as a live performer. The following year saw Harper perform with the Funk Brothers in the documentary Standing in the Shadows of Motown, which was followed by Diamonds on the Inside, which took him further into the mainstream. In 2004 Harper toured and collaborated with The Blind Boys of Alabama, releasing both a CD and a live DVD. For his 7th studio album, Harper reunited with the Innocent Criminals, releasing Both Sides of the Gun, another double CD and another commercially successful album.