Nigerian-born Jacob Banks is an astonishing singer who provides a thrillingly cinematic and contemporary take on classic jazz and soul.
Now based in London, the 25-year-old singer-songwriter began his musical journey in 2011 taking to the stage at various open mic nights around Birmingham. Since then, Banks has released a stunning EP, The Monologue, and received recognition supporting influential artists such as Emeli Sandé and Alicia Keys on tour.
Gracing the COLORS room with his husky gospel voice and bluesy r&b guitar melodies, ‘Mercy‘ elevates above the confinements of traditional soul music. Creating something for both old and new generations Banks sound draws inspiration from both traditional and futuristic genres.
Speaking about the style of his sound, Banks states: “I think the epicness of my songs partly comes from being African—that really heavy, four-on-the-floor, foot-thumping, warrior kind of vibe has a lot to do with where I’m from.”
“I want to use that to empower everyday people, to be their battery pack on a Monday morning and help them get through the day. All of these songs are about triumph, and how to keep going when everyone and everything is telling you to stop.”
