For 23-year-old Ben Herrero, music isn't just a passion - it's a lifeline.
Originally from Townsville in Far North Queensland, Ben took centre stage at the City of Hobart’s Songs from the Street event on Thursday 7 August, sharing his story through a powerful mix of original songs and instrumental pieces.
Held in the Elizabeth Street Mall as part of Homelessness Week 2025, Songs from the Street celebrated performers who have experienced homelessness or severe housing stress.
Ben’s performance stood out not only for its musicality but for the raw honesty behind it.
Ben has been playing guitar for ten years and singing for six, drawing inspiration from folk, classical, jazz, blues and traditional music from both American and European roots.
His style is eclectic and expressive, shaped by experience and a deep emotional connection to creativity.
“The curiosity is from my soul and that's what music is about,” Ben said.
“When you have a chance to play music and do something creative and express yourself, that's actually what life is about.”
Ben’s journey to the stage has been anything but easy. After moving to Hobart, he found himself in a difficult situation, living in a hostel and struggling with addiction.
“I ended up getting addicted to drugs… I worked a few jobs here and there, but I never covered my bases because I was looking for substance and pleasure in the now,” he said.
Sobriety marked a turning point.
“Since I've gotten sober, I've learnt that music and the things that mean the most to me and my spirit are more important than just what you have in the moment for your own pleasure.”
Musician Ben Herrero performing at the City of Hobart's Songs from the Street in Elizabeth Mall.
Ben’s path to stability involved couch surfing, nearly sleeping in a tent and actively seeking out community.
“I’ve been around to churches and community events and just talking to average Joes on the street… It can be done if you just have your heart in the right place.”
Now, Ben lives in a flat with supportive roommates and holds a stable job. He credits his progress to accountability and conscious choices.
“I'm stable because I'm choosing to remain stable… keep my house clean, respect my roommates, prioritise my future and go out and find work.”
Songs from the Street was more than a performance opportunity — it was a platform for stories like Ben’s.
The event also raised funds for Health with Dignity, a local initiative in partnership with the Salvation Army that provides free GP appointments to people in extreme need. One act from the event will win a free recording session at MONA’s Frying Pan Studios, sponsored by the City of Hobart.
Ben’s message to others is one of empathy and hope.
“We tend to just judge a book by its cover,” he said.
“Even the people who are on the street or are struggling… it's important that we just try and give them a gentle nudge of ‘hey, come on, you can do better than this.’”