Hi everyone! A little while ago, I had the chance to discover Free Friends, a band from Baltimore, thanks to my Pop Punk Rock Universe site. They sent me their newly-released single, “Chekpoint“, and I was immediately hooked. After a few discussions with Ben Dehan, the band’s frontman, they agreed to do an interview. Here’s the result: an interview with the band Free Friends, which I present to you on the occasion of the release of their new EP “Sweet Nothing”. It’s an EP with a lot of featuring, and I hope it will receive the best possible reception. Find out more below!
But before I get started, I’d like to thank the band once again for agreeing to be interviewed in this comprehensive interview. Between anecdotes, announcements of future projects and collaborations, the spirit of Free Friends and their music… it’s all here.
Enjoy it!
1. Ben, could you tell us about the formation of the band, how long have you been playing together, and your beginnings in pop-punk music? So that the French-speaking audience can get to know you better, can you tell us where you are from? Is the local music scene conducive to the development of your band?
Absolutely, I’d love to share our story. Free Friends came together almost by fate. My own journey into pop-punk began when I received a guitar, a skateboard, and a copy of “Enema of the State” on my 11th birthday. I was hooked immediately, and music quickly became my world.
This magical alignment wasn’t just a fleeting moment; it was the start of something special
Ben, on the arrival of Gil the drummer from Free Friends
The formation of Free Friends felt like it was meant to be, almost effortless. Initially, I didn’t even know my wife, Lauren, played cello. It was during the early days of COVID-19 when her mom brought over her cello, and almost instantly, we played our first song together—“I Write Sins Not Tragedies.” Lauren and I spent two years recording and touring, but something felt missing until Gil, our drummer, came into the picture. His arrival was like something out of a film. He sent me an email that he almost never sent, and before we knew it, he drove up from Raleigh to Baltimore, learned our set, and 2 days later rocked our first unofficial show as Free Friends at the Mid East Cafe in Boston.
This magical alignment wasn’t just a fleeting moment; it was the start of something special. It was clear after that first show that Gil was the missing piece. Just a year has passed since then, but it feels like a lifetime of events. Now, as a trio, we’re all in—100%. There’s nothing better than pursuing what you love with people you love, sharing a mission that feels just right.
The Baltimore music scene has been a nurturing ground for us, vibrant and supportive, allowing us to thrive and evolve in our sound. We hope our French-speaking fans enjoy discovering more about us and feel the passion that drives Free Friends.
2. Ben, you’ve already shared the stage with big names like All Time Low, Yellowcard, among others. Now you’re embarking on a new adventure with Free Friends. What motivates you in these different musical experiences?
Absolutely, tearing it up on stage with heavy hitters like All Time Low and Yellowcard was unreal. Each gig was a blast, the kind of intense thrill you never want to end. These guys weren’t just icons we played with; they were an integral part of our early days. My first band and All Time Low cut our teeth together, playing some of our first major shows together. They really pulled us up along with them. They showed us the ropes, generously shared their insights, and they were instrumental in helping us nearly seal a deal with Hopeless Records.
Despite the challenges, which have undoubtedly been the most demanding of my career, pursuing music feels like an inevitable path for me. Whenever I’ve considered stepping away, it’s as if I’ve walked off one side of the page only to reappear on the other. It’s genuinely exciting to see this project evolve through a new lens—perhaps a bit more weathered and, hopefully, wiser than before.
We’ve committed to this journey, for better or worse, success or not, while holding true to our values, artistic integrity, and the commitment to our growing community of Free Friends. It’s an honor to take the stage again, to push past previous barriers, and to feel that unmistakable, electric connection with the audience when the first chord strikes, and everything else just fades away. That’s what drives me.
3. I understand Blink 182 has had a great influence on your musical style, are you all fans? Are there other bands that have particularly influenced you? Finally, what element gives your music its own identity?
Growing up, my screen name was blinkfanatic7—so it’s safe to say I like them. One summer, my former band managed to work our way onto the 2008 Warped Tour, doing catering and food deliveries to AVA and Pennywise in exchange for a daily set on the Skate Ramp stage. This actually turned out to be a golden opportunity because it brought us close to Tom DeLonge. We hung out with him and Angels & Airwaves every day, which eventually led to playing shows with them off the tour.
I’m deeply passionate about music, which I believe is essential for any artist. My musical influences are broad, ranging from Jimmy Eat World and Blink-182 to Taking Back Sunday and The Starting Line. Lately, I’ve been into Olafur Arnalds, The Japanese House, and The 1975, along with some incredible new talent like Hot Mulligan, Good Hangs, and Crooked Teeth. We’ve even curated a playlist called “Punk Up The Jam” that features a mix of what we’re currently listening to. I encourage people to follow and or submit their music here:
As for what makes our music uniquely ours, there are a few key elements. First, we have a cellist, which isn’t typical in the Pop Punk/Emo scene. Also, our band is a mix of different ages, backgrounds, and experiences—from Gil, our 20-year-old drummer who connects with Gen Z, to Lo, who drives much of our band’s energy without having grown up listening to this kind of music, to myself, a veteran of the 2000s Pop Punk era. This blend shapes our sound and makes our message inclusive and diverse.
Lastly, we only release music that we absolutely love. We start by creating songs that we want to hear, then refine them until they’re just right. The same principle applies to our performances: we give everything we’ve got because we’re having the time of our lives doing it. That’s probably why we’ve built such a dedicated community around Free Friends. Here’s to the journey and our fans who make it all worthwhile!
4. You’ve collaborated with prestigious names in the pop-punk scene, Matt Malpass, Matt Squire… How did you manage to get such collaborations? What advice would you give to bands dreaming of such collaborations?
Collaborations have been like finding friends in high places who just get you. Matt Malpass, Matt Squire – these guys are legends. Getting to work with them wasn’t just luck; it was about showing up, grinding hard, and never losing sight of our vision. For those dreaming of similar collabs, my advice: hustle with heart, and don’t be afraid to reach out. The worst they can say is no, right? Let me repeat that: don’t be afraid to reach out; Find some common ground and strike up a conversation. Sure some of the relationships were already there from my previous projects but many of these relationships were forged fresh in Free Friends and started through a simple DM!
5. What is your process for writing and composing your songs? Is there a member of the band who takes the lead or is it a collective effort?
My songwriting process is a bit of an adventure, as I employ various approaches that keep the creative juices flowing. At the heart of our band, it’s my primary role, but it truly takes all three of us to strike the perfect balance—just the right number of cooks in the kitchen, you could say.
The magic really happens when I collaborate closely with Lauren on the cello and Gil on the drums
Ben, talking about the process of creating music for free friends
On any given day, I’m likely crafting a new song, pulling inspiration from the thousands of voice memos I’ve accumulated over time. I like to set a 60-minute timer to transform these snippets into a structured song. This usually begins with a walk or a shower, which helps me nail down the chorus first, followed by the verses. I record everything in bits and pieces right into my phone. The quality isn’t crucial at this stage; capturing the emotion and the essence of the song is what matters. By the time the timer goes off, I aim to have a complete first draft, regardless of its initial quality.
This rigorous daily practice has not only strengthened my songwriting skills but has also made the process thrilling, especially under the pressure of the clock. Watching a song evolve through numerous edits and versions is incredibly rewarding.
The magic really happens when I collaborate closely with Lauren on the cello and Gil on the drums. Both are exceptional writers who bring their unique flair to the music, often transforming my initial vision into something far beyond my imagination. Their contributions are crucial in elevating each track to its full potential.
This method works wonders for us, turning each session into a dynamic workshop where great music comes to life.
6. Is there a particular message or cause you want to promote through your music?
Absolutely, the core message we aim to convey through our music is one of hope and resilience. It’s about finding that light at the end of the tunnel. We’ve each navigated through our own periods of darkness, and if our songs can serve as a beacon for someone—offer a glimmer of light in their gloom—that means the world to us.
Additionally, the ethos behind our band name, ‘Free Friends,’ is rooted in community and support. We make it a point to respond to everyone who reaches out, especially those in need of a listening ear. Having personally grappled with depression and anxiety, I understand the profound loneliness and the feeling of being broken, with seemingly no one to turn to.
If you’re feeling isolated and overwhelmed, please don’t hesitate to reach out. I’ve likely been in your shoes, and even if I haven’t, I’m here to listen and support you. You’re not alone. ❤️
7. Your latest single “CheckPoint” has been well received. It seems to be on track to join the list of your songs with over 100,000 streams on Spotify. What were your inspirations for this track?
“Checkpoint” is a track that has been brewing since 2020 when I first laid down the initial riff. Originally inspired by a bandmate from my previous band and tentatively titled “Checkpoint Charley,” the song has undergone a significant evolution. As I delved deeper into modern Pop Punk influences like Neck Deep and Waterparks, I was driven to create something that was both high-energy and authentic. I’ve always been guided by the emotional impact of our music—if it doesn’t stir something within me, it’s back to the drawing board (hehe).
Collaborating with SUCKERPUNCH! on this was an absolute blast. They’re not only incredibly dedicated and hardworking but also some of the most genuine and funniest people we’ve had the pleasure of working with. This partnership has not only produced a fantastic track but also kindled what I hope will be a long-lasting friendship as we rise together in the music scene.
Keep an eye out for our joint tour dates across Canada and the US this September! (Note from PPRU: We can’t wait!!! We’ll keep you posted!)
8. Can you give us an insight into what “Free Friends” is planning for the future? I understand that an EP is planned for the spring, what can you tell us about it? Any new projects?
Exciting times are ahead for Free Friends! Since the release of our pop punk rendition of Miley Cyrus’ “Used To Be Young” featuring Jack the Underdog, we’ve been riding a wave of rapid growth. Working with Jack was a fantastic experience—he’s not only a total pro but also a joy to collaborate with. We’re incredibly fortunate to be part of a community brimming with such colorful and talented individuals. Amongst these individuals on the EP will be artists like Hit The Lights, Makeout, glimmers, and of course SUCKERPUNCH!
Looking forward, we’re thrilled to announce our upcoming EP, “Sweet Nothing,” set to drop on May 1st. Hot on its heels, we’ll release our next single featuring When The Sun Sets titled “Goodbye and Goodnight” on May 29th. That’s just the beginning—expect five more singles, each launching eight weeks apart. We’ve also got tour dates, music videos, and plenty of other exciting announcements lined up, so stay tuned!
Discover their new EP here:
All of this is building up to the release of our full-length album this fall. It’s shaping up to be a monumental year for us, and we can’t wait to share all the new projects and adventures with our fans. Keep an eye on our socials for all the updates—we’ve got some big news on the way!
9. Have you toured with Free Friends before? What has been your most memorable on-stage experience and is there a city or venue that is particularly close to your heart?
Absolutely, touring with Free Friends has been an incredible journey. Being on the road feels like where I truly belong, and doing it with Lo and Gil just makes every moment even better. One of the most unforgettable experiences happened at a smaller venue—the Burlington Bar in Chicago. It was during our last song, “Waiting For You” when the energy in the room really peaked. Every single person was singing along; the connection was electric. That night left a deep imprint on me, and I eagerly look forward to returning there.
It was during our last song, “Waiting For You,” when the energy in the room really peaked. Every single person was singing along; the connection was electric
Ben on his most memorable stage experience
Touring has been a thrilling rollercoaster, filled with countless memorable moments. Playing shows in our hometown always brings a special kind of excitement and warmth. The energy and love we feel from the crowd there are simply unparalleled.
Looking ahead, we’re excited to expand our horizons. We have our sights set on French-speaking areas, eager to bring our music to fans across Europe and Canada. We can’t wait to explore these regions, share our sound, and connect with fans new and old.
I’d like to take this opportunity to say a few words. Do you have concerts planned in a French-speaking region, in Europe or Canada? Would you like to explore a particular region?
Absolutely! This fall, get ready because we’re hitting the road with SUCKERPUNCH! We’ll be announcing tour dates in Montreal, Toronto, and Ottawa. We can’t wait to rock out with everyone there—it’s going to be an unforgettable series of shows!
We’ll be announcing tour dates in Montreal, Toronto, and Ottawa.
10. How do you interact with your fans and how important is it to you as a band?
Interaction with fans is the heartbeat of Free Friends. Whether it’s responding to every message or sharing moments online and in person, it’s about building a community, a family. You guys are why we do this.
11. What advice would you give to young musicians aspiring to make a career in punk rock or music in general?
The most essential piece of advice I can offer to aspiring musicians, especially those passionate about punk rock, is to prioritize crafting music that resonates with you personally. Always remember, it’s your love for the music that drives everything. Write songs that stir your soul and don’t be swayed from that path.
It’s going to be a challenging journey. You’ll face setbacks and failures, but the key is to never stop. Persist against all odds, and progress will follow. Be an active and positive member of your music community, stay true to your beliefs, and never compromise on what feels right to you.
Seek advice from those who’ve walked this path before, take calculated risks, and keep pushing forward, no matter what. If your desire is strong enough, you’re going to make it.
Did I say keep going?
12. Your band has a unique dynamic as Lauren and Ben are married. What impact does this have on your band? Do you have any anecdotes or particular experiences to share on this matter?
Having Lauren in the band, who is not only my partner in life but also my best friend, brings a unique dynamic to Free Friends. It’s true that mixing personal and professional lives comes with its own set of challenges, but the rewards are immeasurable. Together, we get to build our dream life, piece by piece.
The connection between us adds a profound depth to our music. We’ve experienced life’s ups and downs side by side, and that emotional resonance is woven into the songs we create. Whether it’s those spontaneous jam sessions in our living room or the silent, knowing glances we exchange on stage, there’s a kind of magic in our synergy. It’s real, it’s heartfelt, and it transforms Free Friends into more than just a band—it makes us a family.
And let’s not forget Gil, who is not only one of my best friends but like a brother, and a part of this family and dream!
We’re excited about the future and grateful to be on this journey, not just with each other, but with all of you. Here’s to the adventures that await us all!
Links
Spotify
DBMG EPK
https://www.dontblinkmg.com/free-friends-epk
TikTok
https://www.tiktok.com/@freefriendsrock
https://www.instagram.com/freefriendsrock
YouTube
https://www.youtube.com/@FreeFriendsRock
https://www.facebook.com/freefriendsrock
https://twitter.com/freefriendsrock
SoundCloud
https://soundcloud.com/freefriendsrock
Website
https//www.freefriendsrock.com
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Linktree
