Interview with AshleyLikeBanks
- Jerica of Futuristic Dreamers
- Feb 12, 2016
- 3 min read
Questions:
1. What made you want to be a female emcee? Did you have many doubt your talent and dream?
A: I have always loved hip hop. I was a DJ as a kid but I admired emcees so much I didn't think I had the skills to be one. I had a friend I went to college with who was into the Bay Area music scene a while back and he would always say "I need to get you in the studio, I know you can spit". One day I went and laid a verse and never looked back. In regards to people doubting me, I Actually don't have any people really doubt me. I think I am the only one who really gets down on myself the most but that's my personally. After I perform I usually get nothing but love so that always give me reassurance that I am doing something right. I let my work speak for itself.
2. How did "AshleylikeBanks" stick as a stage name? Were you inspired by Fresh Prince of Bel Air?
A: The stage name is just "Ashley Bank$", Ashleylikebanks is just for social media. But my government name is Ashley. I never had a nickname growing up and I didn't want to differentiate to far from who I am as a person. I also grew up watching fresh prince so that name fit well. I went thru a lot of names but this one felt comfortable to me plus I grew up in the 90s and its part of me as an artist.
3. What do you expect your audience or current fans to get from listening to your music?
A: I really want to educate and enlighten. I want to broaden the scope of hip hop and the mindset people have. I really pride myself in dispelling stereotypes. I am mixed Hispanic and black, I had the privilege of getting my bachelors in Nursing and working on my masters. I had my own set of youthful delinquencies growing up. I have doctors and lawyers in my family and a brother who is locked up in CDC for manslaughter. The point is people are multifaceted and don't think you are ever locked into a box. Be the best you that you can be. Also I want people to relate and feel empowered. Like if I can do it anyone else can 2!
4. Where do you see yourself in five years from now?
A: I see myself continuing with music. By then hopefully I have had my name grow to further recognition as a household artist in the underground scene. Complete a couple collabs with some other west coast legends. All I wana do is bump in the underground!!! haha
5. Have you performed out of state yet?
A: Yes I live in Vegas & have done tons of shows here. Went to the bay for a little tour, LA multiple times and one of my favorite spots Arizona. I have plans for NYC & Miami in the future!
6. I have been promoting and following you for a little bit now, but for those not following what are they missing out now?
A: They are missing a genuine sound. I say it's a perfect collaboration of the streets and substance. I make music for the people not for notoriety. I make party music, lyrical tracks, deep songs and feel good sounds without losing the roots of hip hop.
7. I ask all all of the local artists I interview, but if I were able to look at iPhone's music playlist or computer's library - What kind of genres or songs would I find?
A: A lot of old school west coast like Ice Cube and DJ Quik, new west like Nipsey Hussle and Jay Rock. Spanish music like salsa and reggaeton, my tops are Aventura and Marc Anthony. Also a lot of reggae and island jams like J Boog & Collie Buds.
8. What are your studio sessions like - All work and no play or a good balance between work and play?
A: Work with a light hearted feel. I put 100% into anything I do so for me studio time isn't for me to hang with friends and BS. I want to make real music so I get down to business but not so tight knit that I can't be creative. Free feel to slide thru if you want to create but if your looking for a kick back I ain't the one.
9. Where can new followers find your music and follow you on your social media sites?
A: My first album is available on all digital retailers like Spotify, iTunes, Google play, Rhapsody & etc. Make sure you follow me on IG, Twitter & facebook.
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