Ben Utecht
When Ben Utecht steps on stage to perform in concert, a few things are immediately noticeable.
His powerful voice. His soul. His connection to the music.
And it’s also quickly apparent how the audience responds to the former NFL star tight end’s musical performances, reacting with emotion and love.
Being able to share his passion and talent for Contemporary and Inspirational music with audiences across the U.S. is something that brings Utecht great joy.
“Music is an avenue and language by which we are all connected,” Utecht says. “It’s different from football, in that on stage you are completely vulnerable to the audience. They can see right into your soul, and you into theirs. Music has the power to change lives, and I’m blessed to be able to use it for that purpose.”
Utecht is an in-demand performer for corporate and charity events, along with guest-performing and headlining in concerts across the country. His singing career has blossomed since he retired from the NFL in 2009. His friends, family, and NFL teammates always knew of Utecht’s musical talents, but now the world does too.
Utecht has performed with some of the world’s best orchestras and conductors; such as the Cincinnati Pops under Maestro Erich Kunzel, and the New York Pops Maestro Steven Reineke. He has also shared the stage with Grammy-winner Sandi Patty, performed for mega-producer and hit songwriter David Foster, and has toured many times with adult contemporary star pianist Jim Brickman.
Utecht has recorded four albums, with his holiday record, entitled “Christmas Hope”, nominated for a 2012 Dove Award.
”Memories bring a universal meaning to all ofour lives,” Utecht says. “This video is for my family but also for the millions around the world suffering from brain disorder and disease. It was designed to emotionally connect people to their brains – and I believe it has.”
Singing and a love of music have been part of Utecht’s life since childhood, thanks to growing up in a family blessed with musical talents. Performing was as much a part of his life as football, allowing him to star in the field and behind the microphone.
Being able to share his love of music, talents, and the joy of positive, inspirational music continues to energize Utecht.
”I don’t remember a time in my life that wasn’t impacted in some way by music,” Utecht says. “If I can use my music in some way, to positively impact the lives of others, then I know I am using it in the right way.”
His impactful 2014 single, “You Will Always Be My Girls”, a musical love letter from Utecht to his wife and daughters, has been viewed well over a million times on YouTube and continues to pick up fans from around the world. Utecht’s personal struggle with ongoing neurological issues, after sustaining five diagnosed concussions from playing football, led him to co-write the song. He hopes his family will always remember how much he loves them, even if, someday, he may not be able to fully remember them.
His touching lyrics and passionate vocals, along with the emotional starring turn by his wife Karyn and their precious young daughters, make the song’s video absolutely unforgettable.