Introducing R&B Princess: Summer Banton [Interview]
We are so excited about R&B princess, Summer Banton whose sound is an expression of youth, vulnerability and empowerment. In this interview, we're peeling back the curtain to give you a peak into Summer’s world.
“Last year I went through a period of listening to a lot of throwback songs from the 90’s. I really wanted to make songs for the girls!!”
JO: You are Summer Banton, a singer/songwriter with a gorgeous sound that feels young, fun and free! For those who’ve not heard your music before, how would you describe yourself as an artist?
Summer Banton: I would say my music is r&b essence inspired by the sounds I listened to growing up. Some of the running themes throughout my music are empowerment and nostalgia. I’d definitely say my music is also honest and unfiltered!
JO: When did you first realise that you could sing and was this something you always wanted to pursue?
Summer Banton: I’ve sung since I was 6 - I was very much a music theatre girly growing up. I started writing songs when I was 16 and the rest was history.
JO: We are obsessed with your new track ‘Be My Guest’, what inspired you to write this song?
Summer Banton: Last year I went through a period of listening to a lot of throwback songs from the 90’s. I really wanted to make songs for the girls!! I went into the studio with a couple of ideas and ‘Be My Guest’ was born.
Source: Instagram @summerbanton_
JO: The music video for ‘Be My Guest’ has a Y2K feel to it. From the dance breaks to the shots of you writing on the mirror. Was this intentional and have you always been a bit of a dancer?
Summer Banton: I loveeeee dance! I started dancing when I was 6 and it’s always been something I’ve wanted to incorporate into my artistry, so ‘Be My Guest’ was the perfect opportunity for this to finally happen. I had so much fun in rehearsals for the video (shout-out my choreographer Paige n the amazing dancers)
Source: Instagram @summerbanton_
JO: Your overall aesthetic is very well curated and really gives pop-star. From the hairstyles and makeup, to the outfits and jewellery. How would you describe your personal style and do you have a team of people or do you like to experiment with different looks?
Summer Banton: When I was brainstorming styling with Jaka the stylist for ‘Be My Guest’ I said I wanted to channel ‘hot girl meets girl next door’. I think that’s a good summary of my style!
I love y2k styling and I think I incorporate that into my look but I also love streetstyle and everything comfy and oversized too so it’s a mixture of both - I like to switch it up!
Summer Banton performing for Nocturne at Amazing Grace, London
JO: You opened the night Nocturne’s live show at Amazing Grace and blew the crowd away with your voice, stage presence and overall energy. How does it feel to perform your songs in front of a live audience?
Summer Banton: I really love playing live. I feel like playing with a band takes everything to another level and I can interact with the people that listen to my music. Most of all I just love singing, I can sing all night long at a show!
JO: What can we expect next from Summer Banton?
Summer Banton: More music, more vibes and nostalgia and I might just pop outside to play another show real soon!
