Artist to watch: Jacob Banks

I have to tell you guys about this amazing artist called Jacob Banks. I’ve heard his name before but never really had a listen. This changed this week! I listened to “Chainsmoking” and it blew me away. It is powerful, soulful and Jacob Banks’ voice gives it the right intensity. It sounds like it’s coming from the deep south in the US but with a modern twist. But listen for yourself:

 
Good, right? But let me correct you he is not from any southern state in the US. He is actually from Nigeria and moved to Birmingham, England when he was 13. This came as a surprise to me after listening to this powerful song. But Banks has not only an amazing voice he also writes his songs himself. He is the complete package and a wonderful singer songwriter. Apart from “Chainsmoking” he released two other singles of his EP “The Boy Who Cried Freedom” and they are similar in style. He also got two previous EP’s and obviously they are well worth to listen to. But let me show you how he sounds live:

 
Amazing right?! He has been on tour with Emeli Sandé, Sam Smith and Alicia Keys all around the UK. Lucky for us he is on a world tour right now and tickets are going fast. The first few shows are already sold out. Just because is bringing him to Zurich on 23rd October! I bet he will fill Mascotte with his incredible voice and transform us into the south. Another great gig at this club after Welshly Arms played there. Me personally I cannot wait to see him live. Get your tickets here. Check back into Kekoas Korner after the concert to read about the gig and leave your opinion too.
Please check his homepage for other tour dates.
What do you think of Jacob Banks? Let me know in the comments below.