British singer-songwriter Asha Banks just wrapped the biggest year of her music career, but she’s only aiming higher in 2026. She released two projects last year: Untie My Tongue in March and How Real Was It? in November, her first official EP. With influences like Johnny Cash, Joni Mitchell and Norah Jones, both projects encapsulate her earthy, acoustic sound and rhythm-driven lyrics. Before music, Banks grew up acting in the West End and now stars in the film series starting with My Fault: London, based on Mercedes Ron’s Culpa mía. With her EP, Banks aimed for greater vulnerability in her music, even if it felt risky. Songs like “Delay” and “Headstart” mark feelings and melodies that go unresolved, but they reach unprecedented conclusions by existing in the world and within a listener’s context. She states, “it’s wild how something that’s yours can become someone else’s so quickly.”
This realization came to life in December, when Banks completed a four-stop tour through North America. Though her career kicked off first with acting, writing How Real Was It? brought more of Asha Banks’ authenticity to light. To her, the version of herself presented on the record is the most honest she has been and who she’s always been. Luckily, her audience is consistently supportive of her evolution and has easily found pieces of themselves within her music. Building on her momentum, Banks’ exciting year will continue with her first headline tour throughout Europe and the United Kingdom in March, supported by Liang Lawrence and Alfie Jukes. Thank you to °1824 for giving us the opportunity to chat with Banks.
- Ria Skyer
