Introducing Interview: Jacob Banks

Currently on tour in North America having just released a killer new single and with an EP on the way, it really is an exciting time to be Jacob Banks. 

We caught up with one of the most exciting voices of new-era soul to chat remaining G and jerk chicken.

Hi Jacob! What does today hold in the life of Jacob Banks?
Today, my band and I are in Austin TX to play a show and then eat as many ribs as we can.

Can you tell us a little bit about your new single, Unholy War?
Unholy War is reminder for the oppressed to keep running and to remain very G.

For want of a better word, you have quite an ‘old’ voice, but you mix it with modern production, who are some of your favourite artists and what inspires you to make the music you do?
What I’m trying to do is merge times, I want to make soul music sound like it was made in our time and reflect youth culture. I look up to Bob Marley, John Mayer and Kanye West.

You’ve spent a lot of time recently in America, which side of the Atlantic do you prefer?
Home is where they make better jerk chicken and that is the UK, the jerk chicken here is a sin.

What’s it like touring alongside names like Emile Sande and ‪Alicia Keys? Are there any new artists you’d love to support?
Touring with those artist is very humbling and above all I get to learn and share energy which is invaluable. It would be incredible to tour with Son Little or Daniel Caesar.

Who would be your dream artist to tour with?
It doesn’t make sense musically but Kanye West.

What are your plans for the rest of the year?
Plan is to stay alive and sample jerk chicken on my quest and deliver an album I’m proud of.

Jacob’s EP, titled The Boy Who Cried Freedom, will be released this Spring on Interscope Records.

Rob Conlon

Rob Conlon

Freelance journalist. Record collector. Yorkshireman. Order subject to change. "You've got good taste, even if you are from fucking Leeds" - Richard Hawley