Benny Blanco
You have definitely danced to his music. From the infectious beat of “Tik Tok” to the romantic strings of “Love Yourself,” the fingerprints of producer and songwriter Benny Blanco are on a huge part of the modern pop landscape. But who is the man behind these legendary tracks? Born Benjamin Joseph Levin, Benny Blanco is the quiet powerhouse who has shaped the sound of a generation. While celebrities often live in the spotlight, Benny built his kingdom in the recording studio, working with almost every major artist you can imagine. His journey from a kid making beats in his Virginia bedroom to a Grammy-nominated mogul with an estimated $50 million net worth is a story of pure talent and dedication. This is the complete story of Benny Blanco—his life, his incredible career, and the personal details fans are curious about.
From Bedroom Beats to Billboard Hits: Benny’s Early Life
Every superstar has a starting point, and for Benny Blanco, it was in Reston, Virginia. Born on March 8, 1988, Benjamin Levin discovered his passion for music incredibly early. As a young Jewish kid, he was inspired by a wide mix of sounds, from rock to hip-hop, and began experimenting with creating his own beats as a teenager. His stage name, “Benny Blanco,” wasn’t chosen at random; it was inspired by a character from the 1993 film Carlito’s Way, a playful nod to his beginnings as a white rapper. Driven by big dreams, he made repeated trips from Virginia to New York City, determined to break into the music business. That hustle paid off when he secured a priceless apprenticeship with producer Disco D, which set him on the professional path. This foundational period of exploration and grit laid the groundwork for a career that would soon revolutionize pop music.
The Producer’s Journey: Mentorship and Breakthrough Smashes
Benny Blanco’s big break came when he was mentored by the famous producer Dr. Luke, who signed him to his production company. Under this guidance, Benny co-wrote and co-produced some of the late 2000s’ most defining party anthems. This era saw him helping to craft Kesha’s career-making “Tik Tok,” the explosive “Dynamite” for Taio Cruz, and Katy Perry’s iconic “California Gurls” and “Teenage Dream”. He also contributed to Britney Spears’ successful Circus album. These weren’t just hits; they were cultural moments that dominated radio and clubs worldwide. By collaborating closely with Dr. Luke, Benny learned the intricate craft of hit-making—how to blend catchy melodies with irresistible rhythms. This period transformed him from a promising talent into a proven hitmaker, earning him respect in the industry and paving the way for him to soon step out and create monumental hits under his own banner.
Becoming a Solo Star: The “Friends Keep Secrets” Era
After years of being the secret weapon behind other artists, Benny Blanco stepped into the spotlight himself in 2018. He launched his own label, aptly named Friends Keep Secrets, and released his debut single “Eastside” featuring Halsey and Khalid. The song was a massive success, peaking in the top ten on the Billboard Hot 100 and amassing billions of streams, proving he could be a front-facing artist too. This led to his debut album, Friends Keep Secrets, and later a deluxe version, Friends Keep Secrets 2, which was certified platinum. As a solo artist, he collaborated with a new wave of stars, releasing heartfelt tracks like “Lonely” with Justin Bieber and the energetic “Bad Decisions” with BTS and Snoop Dogg. This phase of his career showed a different side of Benny—one that was more personal and introspective. It solidified that his talent wasn’t just for crafting hits for others, but for expressing his own artistic vision.
The Benny Blanco Discography: A Catalog of Classics
It’s almost easier to ask which major pop star Benny Blanco hasn’t worked with. His discography is a roadmap of 21st-century pop music. The following table highlights just a handful of the chart-topping songs he has written or produced for other artists:
| Year | Song Title | Primary Artist(s) | Notable Achievement |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2008 | “Circus” | Britney Spears | Top 3 on Billboard Hot 100 |
| 2010 | “Tik Tok” | Kesha | 12x Platinum, #1 hit |
| 2010 | “Teenage Dream” | Katy Perry | Diamond certification |
| 2011 | “Moves Like Jagger” | Maroon 5 ft. Christina Aguilera | Diamond certification, global #1 |
| 2012 | “Diamonds” | Rihanna | 3x Platinum hit |
| 2012 | “Payphone” | Maroon 5 ft. Wiz Khalifa | 7x Platinum single |
| 2014 | “Love Yourself” | Justin Bieber | 9x Platinum, Grammy-nominated |
| 2015 | “Same Old Love” | Selena Gomez | 3x Platinum hit |
| 2018 | “Eastside” | Benny Blanco, Halsey, Khalid | Top 10 hit, over 2B streams |
This list only scratches the surface. His work extends to massive hits for Ed Sheeran (“Don’t”), Maroon 5 (“Animals”), and Sia, impacting virtually every corner of pop. By 2025, his collaborative album with Selena Gomez, I Said I Love You First, added another critically acclaimed project to his immense body of work.
A Power Couple is Born: Benny Blanco and Selena Gomez
What began as a professional partnership blossomed into one of music’s most talked-about love stories. Benny Blanco and Selena Gomez first worked together in 2015 when he co-produced “Kill Em With Kindness” and the smash hit “Same Old Love” for her Revival album. They remained friends for years, with Selena even once asking Benny if he knew anyone to set her up with. The dynamic shifted in 2023, and they confirmed their romance that December. Their engagement in December 2024 was a fairy-tale moment celebrated by fans, followed by a beautiful wedding in Santa Barbara in September 2025. Their creative partnership has only deepened, culminating in their joint album I Said I Love You First in 2025. From collaborators to soulmates, their relationship shows a beautiful blend of personal happiness and professional synergy, often supporting each other at major events like the Golden Globes and Grammys.
Inside Benny Blanco’s World: Net Worth, Home, and Lifestyle
Decades of producing global smashes have led to significant success. As of 2025/2026, Benny Blanco’s net worth is estimated to be around $50 million. A major source of this wealth was the sale of 93 songs from his catalog to the Hipgnosis Songs Fund, a deal reported to be worth between $40 and $50 million. He has also invested in real estate, owning properties in Los Angeles, West Hollywood, and Malibu. Together with Selena Gomez, he purchased a stunning $35 million Spanish-style estate in Beverly Hills in 2025. While his wealth is impressive, it’s often noted that Selena Gomez’s net worth, bolstered by her billion-dollar Rare Beauty brand, is substantially larger. This financial dynamic highlights their unique partnership: he is a powerhouse in music production, while she has built a colossal empire in beauty and entertainment. Together, they form a formidable duo in both life and business.
The Man Behind the Music: Personal Details and Fun Facts
Fans are always curious about the personal details of their favorite stars. Here’s a quick look at some key facts about Benny Blanco:
| Category | Detail |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Benjamin Joseph Levin |
| Stage Name | Benny Blanco |
| Date of Birth | March 8, 1988 |
| Age (as of 2026) | 37 years old |
| Ethnicity & Nationality | American; of Jewish heritage |
| Height | Approximately 5 feet 5 inches to 5 feet 8 inches (166-173 cm) |
| Spouse | Selena Gomez (married 2025) |
| Key Award | Hal David Starlight Award (Songwriters Hall of Fame) |
One of the most lighthearted topics around Benny is the discussion about his height. Often listed between 5’5″ and 5’8″, he has joked about it himself on social media, embracing the title of a confident “short king”. This relatability, combined with his immense talent, is a big part of his charm. He shows that true stature comes from character and achievement, not just physical height.
Beyond the Studio: Ventures, TV, and Authorship
Benny Blanco’s creativity isn’t confined to the recording booth. He is a true multi-hyphenate with ventures that reflect his wide-ranging interests. In 2020, he teamed up with chef Matty Matheson to launch a cooking show, Matty and Benny Eat Out America, on his YouTube channel. His love for food was further expressed in his 2024 cookbook, Open Wide: A Cookbook for Friends. As an entrepreneur, he founded two record labels under Interscope Records—Mad Love Records and Friends Keep Secrets—helping to launch the careers of other artists. He even served as a General Manager at A&M Records. These projects reveal a man who is not only passionate about music but also about building community, sharing joy through food, and supporting other creatives. This holistic approach to life and career makes him a relatable and inspiring figure far beyond his Grammy nominations.
Legacy and Lasting Impact on the Music Industry
Benny Blanco’s impact is measured in more than just awards or sales; it’s etched into the very sound of contemporary pop music. With 11 Grammy Award nominations and songs that have amassed hundreds of millions of album-equivalent units, his commercial success is undeniable. He has a rare gift for crafting melodies that feel both instantly catchy and emotionally resonant, a skill that has made him a go-to collaborator for artists wanting to create their signature hit. Perhaps his greatest legacy, however, is his demonstration that the person behind the scenes—the producer and songwriter—can become a celebrated artist and cultural icon in their own right. From his early days with Dr. Luke to his partnership with Selena Gomez, Benny Blanco’s journey reminds us that authenticity and relentless passion are the real keys to longevity and respect in the fast-paced world of music.
Frequently Asked Questions About Benny Blanco
How did Benny Blanco and Selena Gomez meet?
They first met professionally around 2015 when Benny worked on Selena’s album Revival, but neither clearly remembered that initial meeting. They reconnected years later as friends before their relationship turned romantic in 2023.
What is Benny Blanco’s most famous song?
He has too many iconic hits to name just one, but massive signature hits he co-wrote or produced include “Moves Like Jagger” by Maroon 5, “Tik Tok” by Kesha, “Love Yourself” by Justin Bieber, and “Diamonds” by Rihanna.
Is Benny Blanco also a singer?
Yes! While known primarily as a producer, he stepped into the role of a lead artist starting in 2018. His solo single “Eastside” with Halsey and Khalid was a top-ten hit, and he has released several albums featuring his own vocals.
What is Benny Blanco’s net worth compared to Selena Gomez’s?
Benny Blanco’s net worth is an impressive estimated $50 million. Selena Gomez’s net worth, largely from her Rare Beauty brand, is estimated to be around $700 million to $1 billion, making it significantly larger.
How tall is Benny Blanco exactly?
There’s some playful debate online! Most sources list him between 5 feet 5 inches and 5 feet 8 inches (166-173 cm). He and his wife, Selena Gomez (who is 5’5″), appear to be very close in height, especially when she wears heels.
What awards has Benny Blanco won?
He has won the prestigious Hal David Starlight Award from the Songwriters Hall of Fame and multiple BMI Songwriter of the Year awards. He has also been nominated for 11 Grammy Awards and won Producer of the Year at the 2017 iHeartRadio Music Awards.
The Final Note: Benny Blanco’s Lasting Harmony
Benny Blanco’s journey teaches us that the most powerful voices in music aren’t always the ones on the microphone. From crafting the defining anthems of our time to stepping into his own spotlight and finding a beautiful personal and creative partnership with Selena Gomez, his story is one of authentic passion. He didn’t just follow trends; he helped set them, proving that kindness, collaboration, and relentless creativity are the true markers of a legend. Benny Blanco built a legacy not on fame but on the genuine love for the craft of songwriting and production that resonates in every hit. His music is the soundtrack of a generation, and his influence will inspire creators for years to come.