Benjamin Gates is a visionary electric cellist, composer, and creative entrepreneur based in Washington, D.C. As the Founder & CEO of Asteroid Titanium Musical Productions & Entertainment, LLC, he offers live musical performances, audio engineering services, music therapy, and original compositions—crafting and arranging both his own music and that of fellow artists. His artistry merges classical depth with modern edge, bridging gospel, funk, hip-hop, cinematic minimalism, and experimental soundscapes through the voice of the cello.

Benjamin began playing the acoustic cello as a child, studying in orchestral programs throughout elementary, middle, and high school. Following in the footsteps of his grandfather and sister, he attended Hampton University, where he rose to the role of Principal Cellist. His foundation in classical training, combined with a self-driven approach to innovation, allows him to create immersive sound experiences that feel both timeless and contemporary.

His performances have graced some of the nation’s most esteemed venues, including The White House, The Kennedy Center, the National Museum of African American History and Culture (NMAAHC), the National Museum of American History in Prince George’s County, the National Gallery of Art, and The Anthem. He has also appeared at elite hotels such as the Washington Hilton, The Ritz-Carlton, The Four Seasons, the Gaylord National Resort, and the Hay-Adams Hotel, as well as major cultural institutions like the National Portrait Gallery, the National Archives, and the Walter E. Washington Convention Center.

In addition to numerous high-profile corporate and diplomatic engagements, Benjamin has played for a remarkable list of historic events and notable figures, including:

Martin Luther King III and family during the 60th Anniversary of the March on Washington

Congressman Jim Clyburn’s birthday celebration

The Inauguration Gala for Maryland Governor Wes Moore

A White House-hosted African Leadership Summit, where he was personally complimented by First Lady Dr. Jill Biden

Vice President Kamala Harris at receptions at the National Gallery of Art

Former President Barack Obama and the First Family during a White House performance

Queen of Sweden and international dignitaries at the International Gala

Fundraising events with Oprah Winfrey, Congressman John Lewis, and other national leaders

Additional highlights include appearances at Sheila Johnson’s corporate event at the Salamander Hotels and Resorts Collection, the GEM’s Labor Day Brunch, CARATS Christmas Dinner, the Black History Month program hosted by General Dynamics Information Technology, the Cleary Gottlieb Holiday Reception, and the National Bar Association’s Law Day Dinner, among many others.

Benjamin also appeared as a Civil War-era cellist on PBS’s "Mercy Street", blending music with visual storytelling.

In 2021, Benjamin’s journey was dramatically altered when he was struck in a hit-and-run crash. The experience tested his physical endurance and emotional strength, forcing him to relearn aspects of his instrument and rebuild his artistic career from the ground up. That chapter of his life deepened his purpose, driving his work with renewed passion, focus, and community commitment.

His dedication to impact extends beyond the stage. As a Pedestrian Safety Advocate, he raises awareness around traffic equity and safer streets in the D.C. region. He also leads an annual winter outreach initiative called “Covering You From Head to Toe,” distributing new hats, scarves, gloves, and socks to people in need.

Benjamin Gates brings more than music—he brings presence, resilience, and vision. Whether performing for presidents or neighbors, at a gala or on a city sidewalk, his cello becomes a voice for healing, elegance, and transformation.