Ep. 211: BANKS | Why One Song Isn’t Enough: Rejection & Longevity in Music

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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