One on On in 10: Lisa Banton

What made you first realize that you wanted to pursue a career in music?

I grew up around music. My father is an independent artist as well. The pursuit felt like a natural progression for me. 

 How do you describe your music?

I would describe my music as what R&B/Soul is in the nostalgic sense, not as it’s seen as today. I grew up in an era where the music said a bit more with saying less, where the actual music was more than just some drums and a little melody. My music is reminiscent of that time.

 If you had to categorize your music, what genre would it best fit?

R&B/Soul is where I see my music as a genre.

Do you feel as if music is perceived, accepted, and respected differently in the US versus where you are? If yes, please describe the differences. If no, please state the similarities.

People everywhere show music the same amount of love.‎ In my opinion it has more to do with the demographics. For example, in the US and the UK there are just more people who appreciate the kind of music I’m doing. In Canada, the love is there it’s just that the outlets and platforms for R&B are limited. That results in less listeners, less radio play, less shows, etc.

How do you cope with major obstacles as they relate to the term “starving artist”?

The main way I cope with it is by having a job! As an independent artist, money from the music takes time to come in. So patience is another way I deal with it all. The fact that I love and have a passion for music is what keeps me going.

What do you think your “greatest opportunity” has been so far in your musical career?

I’ve been able to have my music heard by a few major people in the industry. The compliments and praises have warranted my acceptance as an artist from the likes of producers Herb Middleton and Gordan Chambers.

I’ve also been able to work, perform with, and open up for some very well known and ‎talented artists both locally and internationally. I’ve had the pleasure of opening up for UK artist Omar and Canadian artist Glenn Lewis, just to name a few. 

What image do you think your music conveys? 

Why did you choose this type of image for your music?

I’d like to think that my music comes across as meaningful and full of substance. It is important for me to have people listen to my music and not be confused about what they are hearing. I listen to a lot of songs out right now and I must admit, at the end of it I have no idea what’s going on. 

As for why I chose that type of image/music, it kind of feels like it chose me. It was the music I gravitated to as a listener when I was young so it was the kind of image/music I wanted to create to represent my artistry.

What are your immediate music career goals (1 to 3 years)?

I would like to get an actual band to perform with. I believe there is an aspect of my artistry that I haven’t been able to express yet. A band will definitely allow me to share that with my audience. I would also like to get one or two more original projects out.‎ My current EP “Lost And Found” is my first original project apart from my mixtapes. It’s doing so well that I want to give people more of that. 

Do you have other interests or talents that you would like to share with us?

I can draw a little bit. That usually surprises people.

How do you like to enjoy your time away from the music?

I spend a lot of down time with my close friends and family doing really simple things like movies, dinner and stuff like that.  I’m a pretty chill and low maintenance type of ‎girl. 

Mai Mazzi
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