His adulation for music started at a young age where he will make up tunes and songs while delivering newspapers on a horseback ride.
He lived in an era where slavery was predominant and the Hanbys risked their lives helping slaves escape. He met Joseph Selby, a slave who shared his heartbreaking story about his soon-to-be-wife Nelly Gray, sold in a slave plantation a day before their wedding. It inspired Ben to craft a song entitled “Darling Nelly Gray.” It was a compelling song which became an instant hit.
He also crafted beautiful melodies like “Up On The Housetop,” as well as “Who Is He In Yonder Stall?” which became household Christmas songs on top of 80 other compositions.
He was such a breathe of hope and inspiration especially to the young generation and his extraordinary gift of music had brought boundless joy to the world.
Learn more at: https://galaxymusicnotes.com/pages/learn-about-american-folk-composer-benjamin-hanby