Kate Ben ’26, also known as our  ASB President, released the single “Juliet” over the summer. The song turns complicated feelings about experiencing friendship into a beautiful story. Juliet incorporates soft harmonies with a mellow tone, underlining the healing process one goes through during a friendship breakup. 

The song is not only relatable, especially for teens, but is deeply rooted in Kate’s experiences in life.  

“Juliet was a freshman mindset, often there were friendship mix-ups, changing friends, and losing friends too,” explained Kate.

Like many of us, Kate experienced having to find the people who work in harmony with her and let go of the ones who didn’t. Juliet speaks to breaking away from a friendship that isn’t altogether real.

When asked about her passion  for creating music, Kate stated she’d been singing since she was little. Interestingly enough, she hadn’t always had professional help - her passion for music drove her to practice her talents with and without guidance. 

“You don’t always need to have professional help to create music, you just need drive,” Kate noted.

Ambition and persistence drove Kate to produce music and consistently practice. 

If there was anything Kate said she’d do differently, it would be to not take so long trying to perfect “Juliet.” If it feels good to write, and feels important to you, create it. 

“Just because a song might not feel absolutely perfect, it doesn’t mean it shouldn’t be released,.” Kate advised.  

Dwelling on what others will think only blocks one from their creativity. Kate Ben’s “Juliet” isn’t about just leaving a rough friendship. It’s about learning to be yourself even if that means letting go of certain people or things. Finding your identity - what makes you who you are - is of importance for anyone, teenagers and beyond.