Dogs In A Pile Honor Ben Schwartzman with Heartfelt “Big Man” Cover in Indianapolis

On a recent stop at HI-FI in Indianapolis, New Jersey’s rising psychedelic-rock fusionists Dogs In A Pile delivered more than just another electric set—they carried a legacy.

During their performance, the band honored the late Ben Schwartzman by performing his original song, “Big Man,” for the first time live. The moment was poignant and deeply personal, shared in the company of Ben’s father, Ed Schwartzman, and others close to Ben’s story.

For the band, this wasn’t just another cover—it was months in the making. Quietly learning and preparing the song behind the scenes, Dogs In A Pile brought Ben’s music to life in a way it had never been heard before: on stage, in front of a live audience, with love, energy, and authenticity. Dogs In A Pile said,

“We brought Ben Schwartzman’s music to life last night in the company of his loved ones in Indy… It’s a really, really good reminder of why we are out here.”

Ben Schwartzman, born in Long Beach, California, and raised in Schererville, Indiana, was a gifted young songwriter and performer whose life was cut tragically short in 2007. Diagnosed with bipolar disorder in his teens, Ben quietly battled depression while continuing to share music, joy, and kindness with those around him. At just 19, Ben died by suicide—leaving behind family, friends, and a growing catalog of songs that now serve as his enduring legacy.

Thanks to the tireless efforts of his father Ed, Ben’s music lives on through Falling Star: The Songs of Ben Schwartzman, an album featuring 11 of Ben’s original songs and one from his sister, Hayley. All proceeds benefit Centerstone, a nonprofit providing mental health and addiction recovery services. The mission? To give Ben’s music purpose—and perhaps help others struggling in silence.

Dogs In A Pile, rooted in the storied musical haven of Asbury Park, NJ, have a knack for weaving emotion into intricate soundscapes. Their music blends funk, jazz, rock and psychedelia, and they bring a storyteller’s soul to every note. That emotional depth made them the perfect band to breathe life into “Big Man.”

What made the night even more moving was the way the band felt Ben’s presence in the room—not just through his music, but in the connection between his family and the band’s community. Dogs In A Pile said,

After the set, Ed Schwartzman expressed his gratitude—not just for the performance, but for the way Dogs In A Pile treated Ben’s music and memory with reverence and care. It was a full-circle moment: a father’s dream realized, a son’s music reborn, and a community reminded of the healing power of live music.

Ben’s voice may have been stilled too soon, but thanks to moments like this, his spirit continues to resonate—carried across stages, cities, and hearts, wherever the road takes Dogs In A Pile next.