Benjamin Keough was a beloved son, grandson, and brother whose life ended tragically. He was an up-and-coming musician and actor who had so much potential for his future. Learn about his childhood memories, his successes, and the legacy that he leaves behind following his death.
What We Know About Benjamin Keough’s Early Life.
Benjamin Storm Keough was born on October 21st, 1992 to parents Lisa Marie Presley and Danny Keough in Santa Monica, California. Growing up, he had two siblings; older sister Riley and twin brother Harper. Benjamin was baptized at the Church of the Providence by his grandfather, Reverend Stanley Presley, while surrounded by close family friends. He attended Calabasas High School where he developed a deep love for guitar playing that would stay with him throughout his life.
Benjamin had a knack for music that owed to his family’s musical influences. His mother was a singer who worked with legends like Elvis Costello and Bono, while his grandfather was no stranger to the rock and roll scene. He spent some of his childhood in Memphis and Tupelo, both of which are symbols of Presley’s career and cultural legacy. Not only did he learn to play music but he also wrote some of his own songs that never made it past the bedroom walls they were penned in.
Generally considered to be shy and a gentleman, Benjamin had a penchant for writing music, especially Jeff Buckley’s ‘Grace’. He played guitar in his mother’s band at the time and had even penned his own tracks. His mother Lisa Marie compared him to her father Elvis Presley saying that he was “extremely talented with uncanny resemblance”. In her words “He was my greatest gift…I will miss him always.”
Benjamin’s love for music
Benjamin’s talent for music was evident from a young age, and he began writing and recording his own songs in his teenage years. In 2013, he formed a band called “The Narwhals” with friends, and they began performing at local venues around Los Angeles.
Benjamin Keough wasn’t a celebrity, but he did live in the spotlight due to his famous lineage. Despite keeping his private life out of the media and shying away from the limelight, he would be recognized by fans as Elvis’ grandson from time to time. His mother Lisa Marie Presley was also very well-known for her love of musical genres such as rock and blues music, so it’s no surprise that Benjamin followed in her footsteps and cultivated a budding music career of his own.
In 2019, Benjamin signed a record deal with Universal Music, and he released his debut single “Baby Blue” in the same year. The song received positive reviews, with many praising Benjamin’s soulful voice and songwriting skills. He was working on his debut album at the time of his passing and had already released several singles, including “Simple,” “Forgive Me,” and “Will You Love Me.”
In addition to his music career, Benjamin was also pursuing a career in acting. He made his acting debut in 2010 in the short film “Rod & Barry,” and later appeared in the TV series “The Lodge” in 2016. He was also set to star in an upcoming film called “The Long Home” alongside James Franco.
Ups and Downs of Benjamin’s life
Despite his talent and success, Benjamin was plagued by personal struggles throughout his life. He was known to be a private individual who rarely spoke about his personal life to the media. However, his family has spoken publicly about his struggles with mental health and addiction, which ultimately led to his passing.
Lisa Marie Presley, in a statement, said that Benjamin “struggled to cope with the pressure of living up to the Presley name” and that he had “the same beautiful spirit that his grandfather had.” She also shared that he was in therapy and receiving help for his struggles, but unfortunately, it was not enough to save him.
The Tragic Death of Benjamin Keough
On the morning of July 12th, 2020, the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department reported a death at the home of Benjamin Keough. The cause of death was determined to be a self-inflicted gunshot wound. The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department investigated the incident as a suicide.
Benjamin Keough was just 27 years old when he passed away, but he lived a life characterized by artistic expression and inner peace. Born in 1992 to musician parents — his father was a singer-songwriter and actor Elvis Presley’s only son — he inherited what some called a “king’s fortune.” He had been an active musician himself, playing the electric guitar in various Tennessee bands. Known by his friends as Benj or Benny, he was gentle and kind, with an infectious laugh that would bring light and joy to any gathering. In honor of Benjamin Keough and all of those who knew him, we can continue to share stories of his life and use this tragic moment to raise mental health awareness.
The Legacy of Benjamin Keough
In the years following his death, many people have sought to remember and celebrate Benjamin Keough’s life and legacy. With his passing, the world has lost an incredible talent, a committed philanthropist, a humble nature-lover, and an overall kindhearted soul. As we look back on his short but meaningful life here on Earth, let us be inspired to live our lives with kindness, generosity and courage—as that is how Benjamin lived his life.
Here are some frequently asked questions about Benjamin Keough:
Q: Who were Benjamin Keough’s parents?
A: Benjamin Keough was the son of Lisa Marie Presley and musician Danny Keough. Lisa Marie Presley is the only child of the late Elvis Presley and actress Priscilla Presley.
Q: Was Benjamin Keough involved in the entertainment industry?
A: Yes, Benjamin Keough had expressed an interest in pursuing a career in music, and had even recorded some songs in the studio. He was also reportedly considering a career as an actor.
Q: Did Benjamin Keough have any siblings?
A: Yes, Benjamin had two siblings – a sister named Riley Keough, who is also an actress, and a brother named Finley Aaron Love Lockwood.
Q: What was Benjamin Keough’s relationship with his famous grandfather, Elvis Presley?
A: While Benjamin never had the chance to meet his grandfather, he was said to have inherited many of Elvis’ physical features and musical talents.
Q: What was the cause of Benjamin Keough’s death?
A: Benjamin Keough died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound in July 2020. The circumstances surrounding his death remain unclear, and his family has requested privacy during this difficult time.
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