Where I’ve Been: Rebuilding, Reflecting, and Rising Again
It’s been a while.
The last post on this blog was in 2019—a time that feels like a lifetime ago. Back then, I was moving through the world at full speed, performing, recording, collaborating, and building Asteroid Titanium with energy and momentum. Then, in 2021, everything changed.
I was involved in a hit-and-run crash that forced me to stop in ways I never imagined. In an instant, my body—and my life—had to be rebuilt. Recovery wasn’t just physical. It was mental. Emotional. Spiritual. As a performer, especially one so connected to his instrument, that kind of trauma doesn’t just pause your career—it rewrites your relationship with time, purpose, and possibility.
There were moments when I questioned whether I’d ever return to the stage with the same strength, clarity, or fire. Would clients remember me? Would I still be able to deliver what people expect from Benjamin Gates, Electric Cellist? These weren’t just career questions—they were questions of identity.
But I’m here. Still in motion. Still performing
Over the past few years, I’ve not only recovered—I’ve reimagined. I’ve redefined what it means to perform, to heal, and to create. Music became therapy—not just for those who listen, but for me as well. I began offering music therapy services alongside my performances, embracing a more holistic approach to sound and healing.
I’ve been able to return to the stage, collaborating with new partners, performing at intimate gatherings and historic venues alike and even launched new visual projects and studio productions that reflect the layered journey I’ve taken.
Asteroid Titanium is evolving. So am I.
This blog—Benjamin Gates in Motion—will continue as a space where I share the road ahead, the music in between, and reflections on what it means to grow, fall, rise, and keep moving.
If you’ve been part of this journey in any way—thank you. Your support, patience, and belief have meant more than you know.
—
Benjamin Gates
Founder & CEO
Asteroid Titanium Musical Productions and Entertainment LLC
The Strings Chose Me.
When I was younger and I told my mother that I would choose music over playing sports I did not know that I would embark on an adventure filled with rewarding moments, competing with my inner spirit and challenges. While deepening connections and learning what it means to really be a winner. I felt as though I was following in the footsteps of other composers such as;Cameron Clarence White,Joseph Bologne, Chevalier de Saint-Georges and Florence Price.
Being a Washingtonian throughout this journey has been equally as special. Especially during a time when there seems to be shift in generations within the art and music scene of DC. I am proud to be a Cellist from Washington DC and I am willing to share that with the world. During my time as young adolescent,music kept me focused and determined. It made me become strong and strive for more. I will always be an advocate for music to empower the youth because I do feel that it has some components to it, to increase personal growth .
I have also noticed that there are articles published that bring up the topic of there being a decline in music and art that is formulated in Washington DC. This brings me to the importance of motivating the creative side of young people so that they can continue to enhance generations of tradition ,but also bring new ideas. Encourage the youth so they understand that they do not have to choose only one path in life but they can choose two or three, to share their ideas while bringing communities closer.
I would love to write more, but I am willing to respond in the comment section.
Keep music alive!
-Benjamin Gates : @BenjaminGates0
Benjamin Gates Interview with WHUT-TV at Howard University [#ARTICOtv | Art in your Community]
Hear Benjamin Gates talk about serving the community, his enjoyment of music and professional experiences.
#ARTICOtv | Art in your Community | Ep. 205
On this Episode of #ARTICOtv we’re hanging out in OLD TOWN, Alexandria with a visit to its renowned Torpedo Factory Art Center. Also, chatting with a talented young cellist who pays it forward. Blowing glass at a studio in Baltimore and listening to an Iconic choir, whose music is its message!
And there is more, on this next ArticoTv | Art in your Community!
Is It Cold Enough For You? Maroon 5 Cover (CLICK)
Cover done by Benjamin Gates of Cold-Maroon 5 feat Future
Benjamin Gates' Reflections For 2018
Benjamin Gates has a few thoughts about the upcoming year in 2018. Take a look at the video below to hear about what he is looking forward to and also his reflections of 2017.
2018 Asteroid Titanium's Stuffing A Hat Project
Asteroid Titanium's "Stuffing A Hat Project" formerly known as "Covering You From Head to Toe" last year, was able to support the homeless community once again with resources for the winter season. Contributions were made from various donors who added towards the purchase of hats, scarves, socks and gloves to people who are currently homeless and people-in-need. Each hat had socks, gloves and scarves in it and we were able to complete 306 sets (1,224 pieces); 14 sweaters; 13 coats and 45 extra hats and socks and toiletries.
Take A Look At The Video Below!
September Memories w/Danny Glover and More
On September 22nd,2017 Benjamin Gates had the opportunity to meet Actor Danny Glover at the "1st Anniversary Gifts To America, held at the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture. The energy that evening was "Supportive and Beautiful" as stated by Benjamin. Photo Below
Benjamin Gates also had the opportunity to meet Will Downing "The Prince of Sophisticated Soul" at the DC Radio Launch Event for OCTFME. Photo Below:
H Street Festival 2017/Atlas Theater Stage 13th & H
On September 16th at the H Street Festival , Benjamin took the Atlas Theater Stage with waves of frequency. The crowd cheered him on as he shredded through the strings of his Cello, accompanied by the soft sounds reminiscent of Classical. His electric Cello stood out and captivated the supportive audience. H Street Festival 2017 was a success!
Look below for a photo and video. More photos are in the gallery.
Rose The Cello/Performing For The People
Fall approaches and my Cello knows, so she sings loud as the bow dances along in different rows. Rose? That is her name and she makes the sun her stage light, the clouds her curtain and the people watch her. Rose is the name and as fall is next in the act she sells out the show, with glam of her strings and the wind that carries her rings. They ask her where she is from and she sways in her beauty, leaving them guessing in their curiosity. “What kind of instrument is she?” she is one of kind, an electric cello to dazzle your mind. Who am I? I’m the person honored to perform with her after all we know that rose steals the show.
Take a look at the video below!
Reflection on Performing for Weddings
I do not think I discuss weddings enough and what it is like to perform for two people that are about to take a journey into a beautiful path. When I walk in at first it is busy, then people start arriving and then there is a calm. But nothing can quite prepare me for the feeling of anticipation an serene atmosphere when the bride/groom is about to enter. The cello compliments the emotions that are being felt as two families are being united, as two people are being bound into something greater. It is refreshing to be part of such a glorious celebration and I am always happy that with Cello I can wish them the best through music.
I also performed for the cocktail hour during the wedding.
UCAP Community Day Review/Videos
On August 5th UCAP(United Communities Against Poverty) hosted a community day event that consisted of youth friendly activities, live entertainment, health screenings, food, and school supplies for children. There was also a Teen Summit that placed emphasis on Human Trafficking and Social Media Etiquette.
Benjamin Gates shared his music, displaying his mission to be a musician for the people. After his performance Benjamin was met with a great applause that made him feel elated about his service to the community. Below are some videos and also the flyer that shows Benjamin's company "Asteroid Titanium LLC" amongst other community day sponsors.
Enjoy the music!
Beyond The Lens - Day in the DMV: Musician for the people
In December 2016, Benjamin was interviewed for FOX 5 DC about being a musician and what it meant to him. Here is an excerpt from the article and the the link to the video.
http://www.fox5dc.com/news/local-news/225652912-story
"WASHINGTON- Washington D.C. is a very diverse city and people from all different walks of life reside, visit or work here in the nation’s capital.
FOX 5 Photojournalist Steve Williams encountered a cello player performing nearby Nationals Park in Southeast D.C., the home ballpark of the city’s baseball team.
“I came out here today to do a little bit of a music outreach,” the cello player told us."
-Fox 5 DC Staff
Asteroid Titanium Hat,Gloves and Scarf Drive | Helping The Homeless
Benjamin's idea for the Hat,Gloves and Scarf Drive arose in 2015 when he saw that there was a demand for homeless people in DC to have warm clothing for the harsh winters. With the money from busking,clothing donations and monetary donations he is able to give back to the homeless so that they can stay warm during the winter. Enclosed are some media from the most recent drive.
“Giving back to the community is something that I cherish.”
Performance At Impact Hub DC | "2:DC With All My Art"|2017
A clip of Benjamin Gates performing at Impact Hub DC. Hope you enjoy it!
ABC 7 Interview With Michelle Marsh
"Inspire: Young cellist plays to Metro riders"
Benjamin Gates was interviewed in February 2017 by ABC 7's Michelle Marsh. In this interview Benjamin discusses his inspirations and goals that fuel's his determination to continue to share his music with the people around him. Take a look,click the link.
http://wjla.com/features/inspire/inspire-young-cellist-plays-to-metro-riders