PEOPLE: The Performer

Benjamin "Benzo" Thomas is a singer and songwriter. "I can remember singing all the time," he says. "I didn't know I had a voice until somebody stopped and said, ‘Hey, you can sing good." Thomas sang at a fifth-grade talent show and says it was there that he opened up. "I could always sing but I was always so conscious of myself," Benzo says. The piano-playing senior has worked with artists such as Ginuwine and Pimp C. He has just completed "Growing Pains," his first CD, which he has been working on for two years. Benzo says he hopes to tap into his listener's emotions. "With this album I want my audience to get acquainted with me, and also get an introduction to my lifestyle and where I came from." Benzo likes sailing and draws inspiration from the water. Benzo is sure his talent will lead him to the top of the charts. "You have to love what you do, and be patient and consistent," he says.