Jacob Banks has been making waves with tracks like ‘Kids On The Corner’ ever since he clinched the winning prize in the MOBO Unsung and Adidas ‘Are You In’ music competitions.
You’re relatively new to the music industry. When did you begin to pen lyrics?
I’ve always loved music but I never thought I’d be an artist. I just enjoyed singing in my bathroom like everyone else. I started writing properly in March 2011.
Tell us a little bit about your overall sound and general aesthetic?
I’d say the basis of on my sound is soul but I try to find a different angle to approach it and give it a new school vibe.
You’ve been compared to a diverse bunch of artists such as Labrinth, Maverick Sabre and John Legend. Who are you inspired by and who did you listen too as you were growing up?
I grew up listening to everyone, literally. Music wasn’t played in my house so whatever I found had to do. I loved everything from grime to soul to rock. I remember Westlife being the first ‘proper’ sic that I ever heard and it all kind of went from there.
We love your new video for ‘Worthy’ and your EP, The Monologue, has been creating a huge stir. Tell us a little bit about recording it.
The EP was so much fun, I love the process of making music and I’m so glad people are being receptive to it. The EP was made with close friends and it’s all tiny parts of me that I wanted to share.
You count Wretch 32 and Plan B as fans. If you could collaborate with any other artists, who would be your first choice?
I would love to work with John Mayer! He has been such an inspiration to me and helped shaped my songwriting….
You covered Kendrick Lamar‘s track ‘Bitch Don’t Kill My Vibe‘. What other artists are you championing at the moment?
I love Chris Malinchak, George The Poet, Shakka, Ben Howard, Childish Gambino, Drake and plenty more. My taste is very diverse.
How is the full length record coming along? Who are you working with production wise?
It’s such an incredible journey and I can’t wait to share it. I’ve been working with Chase & Status, Bondax, Jake Gosling, Knox Brown and so many other great people.
What do you want to have achieved by this time next year?
This time next I hope to be at the forefront of soul music in the UK. I want my album to be completed and out and I want to be on the road, touring. I have big dreams.
Listen to The Monologue EP here. facebook.com/JacobBanksOfficial
Words: Shane Hawkins