Inventive Artist and DJ
In today’s Student Spotlight, we are covering the prolific University of Tulsa-based musical collective, the Jellyboys, who shocked the world last December with a surprise holiday release titled “Jellymonsters vs. Aliens.” The album surpassed critics’ expectations of the up-and-coming young artist. Even professional music hater, Anthony Fantano, was so moved by the album that he gave it a light nine out of 10. Fans across the world have enjoyed the intricate story and lyrical content depicting the power struggle between the Jellymonsters, the Jellyboys, and the Aliens. After listening, we at The Collegian were so amazed that we couldn’t help but reach out to the founder of the group, Ben Galles, for an exclusive interview. What follows is our conversation over coffee with the 22-year-old adult, Benjamin Galles, the writer, producer, and ⅓ of the lyrical genius of the “Jellyboys.”
TC: Everyone at The Collegian was wondering about your creative process. Can you tell me how you were able to come up with such an interesting, imaginative and beautiful album?
BG: Of course, am I allowed to talk about drugs in the interview?
TC: No. No you are not.
BG: Well, I mostly just come up with stuff on the spot. Also, I wanted to tell everyone reading this to stream our new album, “Jellymonsters vs. Aliens” on Spotify. I get about 1/3 of a cent per stream, and pretty soon I will be able to buy one spicy potato soft taco from Taco Bell.
TC: That’s wonderful, Ben. Next, we wanted to ask if there are any plans for live performances? We understand you have a bit of a cult following here in Tulsa and I know your listeners might be interested in hearing you in person.
BG: Nothing yet, but we did reach out to Waffle House about putting on a show. They didn’t respond but we might still go next Tuesday. On the low though if anyone reading this needs a DJ or performer for an event, hit me up on Instagram @jellybro99, I’m the greatest MC east of the Mississippi.
TC: Alright, for our last question, do you have any upcoming projects that you would give us the early scoop on?
BG: Yeah, I’ve got a new track titled “Mooooolaba” coming out soon. It’s a companion piece to an interpretive dance another member of the Jellyboys, Tucker Cox, and I came up with. We are also working on a new album called “Creaminglington B”, It’s going to be great, so make sure to keep an eye out for it, we are hoping to finish it this year. Also, shout out Yuno Miles, I’ve been trying really hard to get him on a song. His music is like music to my ears.
TC: Alright, thanks Ben, this has been an absolutely amazing time, and I am so glad that we at The Collegian were able to get to sit down with you for a bit.
