Ben Ellman is an American saxophonist, harmonica player, and producer most widely known as a member of the New Orleans–based funk band Galactic, with whom he has made eight studio albums.
Ben also works as a DJ under the name Gypsyphonic Disko, where he mixes New Orleans style funk with klezmer, Eastern European and other exotic music.
[2] As a producer Ben has overseen Galactic’s recordings since 2007, and has produced artists such as Trombone Shorty, Stoop Kids, The Revivalists, Walter “Wolfman” Washington, Soul Rebels, Big Freedia, as well as singer-songwriter Ryan Montbleau and rapper Lyrics Born.
1 on Billboard’s Alternative chart in 2015[5] As a sideman Ellman has played on recordings by Harry Connick, The Afghan Whigs, Ani DiFranco, Theryl “Houseman", The Royal Fingerbowl and Corey Henry.
[6] In March 2019, Galactic's members purchased the legendary New Orleans venue Tipitina's, making Ellman one of the club's owners.