Not only is Ben Tankard a pastor (working closely with Joel Osteen and Creflo Dollar), but is also a legendary Gospel and Jazz keyboardist, songwriter, producer, record label CEO, reality TV star (Bravo TV, “Thicker Than Water” – The Tankard’s), author, motivational speaker for the NBA, suit designer (Big and Tall) and former pro basketball player.

Ben, a native of Florida, dropped out of college after one year to play professional basketball for a minor league team in Canada. He was invited to a NBA camp, but was injured on his way there and was cut. However, Ben rebound from his basketball injury to emerge as the “Godfather” of Gospel jazz music.

Ben who was recently inducted into the Gospel Music Hall of Fame (Stellar Honors), is definitely one of the most influential talents of our time! As a certified pilot and owner of his own plane, Ben flys more than 100 times a year to perform in some of his key markets that include; Nashville/Memphis, Charlotte, Raleigh, Durham, NC, SC, Washington DC, Baltimore, Norfolk, Birmingham, Atlanta, Detroit, Chicago, Tampa, Orlando, Miami, Dallas and Houston to name a few.

Ben’s latest instrumental CD release, “SHINE!”, provides a great follow-up to his last chart topping hit CD, “RISE!” which stayed on Billboard charts for a record 2 years! With “SHINE!”, Ben brought in special guests Gerald Albright, Paul Jackson Jr. and introduces “Sunday’s Best” musical winners, Brandon Marcel and Tracey Phipps. It provides a musical backdrop for listeners to dream, meditate, and spiritually SHINE! Key moments include Kirk Franklin’s “Melodies From Heaven” and a remake of the Bee Gee’s classic hit pop song from the 1970’s, “How Deep Is Your Love.” Both Brandon Marcel and Tracey Phipps are featured on flute and vocals on Shudda-Sed-Sompin’-Din.

His other highlights include a dynamic arrangement of “YESHUA” and a Marvin Gaye remake of, “Just Like Music.” With the release of this CD, Ben proves why he has had longevity in both gospel and jazz music for decades. Not showing signs of slowing down any time soon, this project is considered to be some of “Tank’s” best work to date.