Ep. 211: BANKS | The Key to Longevity (Building Your Fanbase)

Today’s guest is an artist whose voice cuts through like a blade—sharp, emotional, and unforgettable. Emerging from the shadows of alternative R&B and electro-pop, she’s crafted a sonic identity that’s both intimate and cinematic. Her lyrics are deeply confessional, fearless in their vulnerability, and her production choices push boundaries while staying rooted in undeniable emotion. From viral beginnings to critical acclaim, she’s stayed true to her vision, building an aesthetic that’s dark, empowering, and always evolving. All the way from Los Angeles, California—this is the sound of raw artistry at its finest. And the writer is… BANKS!

00:00 - Intro

01:07 - Growing Up in L.A.

03:52 - Music as Math?

06:16 - 100% Songs, No Concept First

08:08 - First Song Became a Jack Collab

10:04 - Social Anxiety + Going Out Hard

12:06 - Fans, Fame & Divine Feminine Energy

15:41 - Jillian vs. BANKS

18:10 - Stage Fright to Frontwoman

21:13 - Regrets & Album Titles That Got Away

22:28 - Streaming Era Beginnings

27:02 - Indie Artist Real Talk

31:12 - Viral Hits vs. Tour Culture

34:09 - “Don’t Try To Write a Hit”

36:04 - Underrated BANKS Songs

38:05 - Why This Album, Why Now

39:28 - How “I Hate Your Ex” Happened

41:24 - Voice as a Shape-Shifter

42:02 - Collaboration Energy Shift

43:03 - Studio Magic Stories

44:14 - Writing for Other Artists?

46:18 - Why Artists Look to BANKS

48:06 - 3 Life-Changing Decisions

49:40 - Five-for-Five Lightning Round

53:08 - Music + Visuals Are One

54:16 - Ross on BANKS’ Legacy

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