Ben Chawes | Carsten Dahl

Ben Chawes & Carsten Dahl: Two Award-Winning Soloists, One New Raw, Unscripted Collaboration

This duo delivers the utmost fervency and telepathic interaction. Their tone is deep and warm, yet surprisingly expressive and playful. Their performances are shaped in real time, guided by deep listening and trust—both in the music and in each other.

As they interpret jazz and pop evergreens we all know and relate to—whether it’s the jazz standard “My Funny Valentine” or their haunting take on Prince’s “Purple Rain”—their newest single, as the video recording shows, was captured in a first take, with no edits to the music itself, showcasing their raw musical connection.

Their individual credits are extensive, ranging from being awarded “Artist of the Year” (USA) and several Danish Music Awards, to recording for the prestigious label Deutsche Grammophon, touring in over 20 countries, performing with the Boston Symphony Orchestra, and more.
In this rare meeting of minds, Chawes and Dahl create a space where the music evolves naturally, and each note feels personal. Their music doesn’t chase perfection—it captures presence. What emerges is a raw, honest dialogue between voice and piano, between Ben and Carsten, rooted in jazz and deeply connected to the moment.

About Ben Chawes
Ben Chawes has captivated audiences across Europe, Asia, and the United States with his warm jazz-soul sound. As a top-tier crooner and entertainer, his music has achieved international success, including a radio hit in Thailand ("Don't Whisper Too Low"), placement in the Danish TV series The Killing, and sponsorships from Denmark’s own Bang & Olufsen. Back in the day, Ben Chawes was praised by none other than Ray Charles, who said: “You made my night.” His vocals and one-of-a-kind ability to turn his voice into an instrument have earned him four American music awards.

His work has earned acclaim from music media across Europe:
“Ben Chawes sets new standards” (Jazz Thing, Germany)
“Superb velvet voice” (Jazzman Magazine, France)
“Absolutely impressive” – Berlingske Tidende, Denmark
“By far the best Danish vocal jazz artist this year” – ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (GAFFA, Nordic music magazine)

 

About Carsten Dahl 
Carsten Dahl is recognized as one of Denmark’s most inventive and influential musicians and composers, with a growing international reputation. A multifaceted artist, he seamlessly integrates music, visual art, and poetry. As a Professor Emeritus at the Rhythmic Music Conservatory, Dahl has appeared on some 300 albums and worked with jazz heavyweights such as Joe Lovano, Wynton Marsalis, Palle Mikkelborg, Eddie Gomez, Johnny Griffin, Didier Lockwood, and Dave Liebman, to name just a few. Known for his distinctive voice in jazz, Dahl’s approach continually evolves, cementing his role as a pivotal figure in both Danish and global jazz scenes.

His work has drawn praise from fellow musicians and international critics alike:
“Dahl is a truly great pianist” – Chris Mosey, All About Jazz, New York
“I’m really touched by your music and the mind behind it.” – Keith Jarrett, New York
“…of the highest class” – Jim Burlong, JazzViews, London
“Painfully beautiful, melodic, authentic work from Denmark's best solo pianist.⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ – Gaffa (Nordic music magazine)

Press Photos

Click pic to download (B/W)

Click pic to download

Click pic to download (color)