image via @benballer
Many people world wide know of Ben Baller but his actual government name is Ben Yang. When celebrities need a new iced-out grill, chain, or watch, Ben Baller is the man they turn to. He is best known for his extravagant diamond-encrusted jewelry. Over the years Baller has attracted many client celebrities, such as Kayne West, Drake, Nas, and Snoop Dogg, just to name a few. The list of celebrity clients goes on for years! If you know of any famous actors, athletes, music artists or even non famous billionaires that are willing to spend a pretty penny, chances are they all know of Ben Baller. He even created a diamond-encrusted belt buckle for the legendary and iconic Michael Jackson.
Ben Baller’s Education
Ben grew up in Korea Town, Los Angeles, California. He attended Beverly Hills High for his high school education. Later he graduated from the University of California, Berkeley. He also got a degree in BFA in cinematography from San Francisco State University. During his college days he played both football and basketball. He remained one of the first Asians to play both sports at the NCAA level. His coach is actually the person who gave him the nickname “Baller.”
Music Industry History
He was a nightclub DJ, primarily playing funk, disco, and hip-hop. He DJ’d at Denzel Washington’s restaurant where he met Dr. Dre. The legendary rap star would come in frequently and one day started up a conversation with Baller. This later turned into a new opportunity and opened doors to a career in the music business where he become the VP of A&R at Priority Records and Aftermath Entertainment. During this time he got the chance to produce records with Dr. Dre and Jay Z. He actually has more than 20 platinum album credits to his name. Ben Baller worked in the music industry for more than a decade from 1993-2004 before joining his family in the jewelry business. Ben used those music industry connections that he made and turned them into a wealthy list of celebrity clients.
How He Got Started in the Jewelry Business
Ben recently elaborated on how he a got started in the jewelry business. In the interview he explained that at one point he worked with Nike and collected a lot of sneakers. He then sold his entire sneaker collection for almost $3M which afforded him to start his own jewelry business. Now, his clients can’t get enough of his IF & Co. fresh jewelry designs. They always come back for more.
Ben Baller’s Documentary Series
Back in 2012 Ben had an online series with watchLOUD. In the series he shows some of his custom jewelry creations for celebrity clientele. The show has a total of six episodes in season one and an unfinished second season with just two episodes. The reality TV series won a Webby award for best new reality show.
Working During Quarantine
He built a 1,800-square foot work/play space called the “million dollar mancave.” This is where he likes to spend most of his personal time. The space has his own personal kitchen, full guest bedroom and full shower. The guest bedroom is also where he records his podcast show since the studio is closed until lockdown is over.
Ben Has His Own Podcast
On his podcast ‘Behind The Baller’ he is more known as Ben Humble, not Ben Baller. This is where the entrepreneurial trash talker gets to be behind the microphone where he can talk and express himself more. He provides listeners with deep insights as to who he really is. In his podcast episodes he generally chats it up with many different famous people as well as discuss various topics of what’s going on in the world. Subscribers can hear new episodes every Monday, Thursday and whenever Ben wants to say something to listeners.
Interests
How can you be a baller and not drive some of the most insane whips around? Ben Baller is in love with cars. He has many luxury cars like a Rolls Royce ghost, Bentley flying spur, and a Lamborghini Aventador just to list off a few. He is definitely pulling up with some heat, with many more whips in his driveway.
Collector Obsession
Ben has a heavy love for Japanese collectible toys and obsesses over Bearbrick & Kaws. He has become a collector of them and has a whole wall in his house to display the fine art pieces.
Passion for Fashion
Baller once teamed up with “London’s Presented By” for a brief capsule of luxury loungewear and layering pieces. He came up with two tees and a tracksuit, the collection has detailing many expect to find in a Ben Baller clothing collection. The garments consist of a track jacket, matching pants, and a tee. The clothes have blends of black with a double ‘B’ in gold detailing and gold zippers. The double B design logo is layered over one another and can be seen throughout. Ben Baller’s limited capsule retails at approximately $385 for tracksuits. The brand T-shirt retails at approximately $85, and the plain tee at around $80.
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