Ben Fagerstedt

About Ben Fagerstedt

Ben Fagerstedt is a singer, songwriter, and performer from Aberdeen, Washington who brings classic warmth and modern storytelling to every stage. With a voice rooted in classical training and a style influenced by the Great American Songbook, Ben delivers soulful, acoustic-driven performances that blend jazz, pop, and singer-songwriter sensibilities. His gigs are intimate, heartfelt experiences, full of storytelling, and full of nostalgia as he brings songs from the Big Band Era to all of his gigs.

Raised in Aberdeen, Washington, Ben grew up in a home filled with music. His mother, a published worship songwriter and church music leader, filled their home with faith-driven songs and heartfelt originals, while his father played classic country favorites from Alan Jackson, George Strait, and Garth Brooks. Visits to his grandparents’ home introduced him to The Beatles and the sounds of the 1960s—early influences that would shape his lifelong love of melody, harmony, and timeless songwriting.

Ben’s first taste of performance came through musical theatre at the historic 7th Street Theatre in Hoquiam, Washington. The stage quickly became a second home, sparking a lifelong love for performing. At 14, he began studying classical voice under Christine Hill of Montesano, WA, later continuing his training under Barry Johnson at Pacific Lutheran University. Their mentorship helped shape his tone, artistry, and expressive control—foundations that continue to define his sound today.

Throughout high school, Ben performed in both choir and jazz band, where he played trumpet and discovered a deep affection for the Great American Songbook and artists like Frank Sinatra and Dean Martin. That classic influence remains a cornerstone of his music—the sound that you will most likely hear at a performance.

In 2018, Ben stepped into the spotlight as a solo artist, giving his first public performance on December 12—Frank Sinatra’s birthday—at the Hoquiam Brewery. The experience ignited his performing career and soon led to a life-changing moment in 2019, when he was invited onstage with Michael Bublé to sing “I've Got You Under my Skin.”

When the world slowed down in 2020, Ben found a new form of expression through the guitar. What began as a creative outlet during the pandemic quickly evolved into a defining chapter of his artistry. Learning to play opened new doors in songwriting, blending his love for the old and soulful with the honesty of contemporary voices like James Taylor, Don McLean, and John Mayer. That discovery reshaped his creative voice, allowing him to write music that feels both deeply personal and universally relatable.

Influenced by the warmth of vintage tone and the sincerity of modern singer-songwriters, Ben’s performances showcase the Rat Pack Era of music, all the way to the modern music of the 2020s. Ben also had the opportunity to perform at a national level on NBC's The Voice. Season 26 coaches Snoop Dogg, Gwen Stefani, and Reba McEntire witnessed Fagerstedt's portrayal of “I've Got You Under My Skin” by Cole Porter filming at Stage 30 at Universal Studios Hollywood. The fourth coach, Michael Bublé, wanted to workshop with Ben and went up on the Voice stage with him, singing the Cole Porter classic again, 5 years later, a full circle moment for Ben.

Beyond the stage, Ben serves as a worship leader at Grays Harbor Foursquare Church, where his love for faith, community, and music come together in meaningful ways. Ben also spends time performing for those in assisted living facilities and memory care units.

Now an active gigging musician, Ben continues to write an perform in the state of Washington and beyond. He also travels out of state to perform! Stay tuned for more exciting things!