Banji Coker Interview | Respect the Artist
Banji Coker, is a spoken word artist living in the UK, originally from Lagos, Nigeria. He sat down with us to talk about his creative process, dreams, and his latest record dedicated to his daughter.
How did you get into creating?
Growing up my parents have always encouraged me to but my thoughts into words and use creativity as a form of expression. So at a young age, I started with drawing, writing stories, making poetry, and now spoken word.
How has creating changed your life?
Music always helps Creating always does as well And ever since I have been creating I have been more in tune with myself and who I am
How did growing up in your neighborhood/city affect you?
Because my parents were supportive of my creativity I was surrounded by creative people at a young age, I was signed into music lessons, and writing workshops and that is where most of my friendships were built on
What did you do to advance your skills/knowledge?
I usually bounce ideas off my friends and I listen to other creatives.
What does your current setup look like?
Basically, just me and my producer Boluhwtf, trying new things and experimenting with different sounds
Who inspires you? Why do they inspire you?
My family, my friends, myself and everyday people around because everyone has a story and wealth of knowledge and all you have to do is listen and you would tap into a gold mine And yes Kanye west, and because of his ability to wish his dreams into existence
What is your goal when you create?
To touch someone’s soul.
Why do you create?
Because it helps me get through life and sometimes it helps others
What's your go-to song right now and why is it important to you?
Kanye west - True Love
What is your dream as an artist and what steps are you taking to reach your dream?
My dream is to be able to do what I do comfortably.
What is the best advice you would give someone with a dream?
It’s hard but don’t give up. And make up your own definition of success and happiness
Tell us about your most recent release
'Not So Nappy Hair' is a piece written as an ode to my daughter, giving her an insight into my reality, fears, and uncertainty and also letting her know that despite everything I will always be there for her.
Listen to 'Not So Nappy Hair' https://open.spotify.com/track/01hAnZEkeXh7So0CzWIexq?si=DKoQ3bqdRVWC5Cy6lVTirA
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