Coachella Countdown: Artist Inspiration, Azealia Banks

Posted by Lucy McBride on April 10, 2012 · Leave a Comment

The first performer in our Coachella Artist Inspiration series is Azealia Banks. It’s actually pretty impressive that this 20 year-old Harlem-bred beauty is playing at Coachella considering her first single, “212 (feat. Lazy Jay)” literally JUST released in December 2011.

Born in ’91, Banks developed an early interest in music and theater; she attended world famous performing arts school LaGuardia in Manhattan, starring in local, off-Broadway productions while dabbling in her own side projects. For Banks, music was always a passion and knew no exclusive genre – she currently cites Destiny’s Child, Aaliyah, Lil’ Kim, Interpol, Bloc Party and Futureheads as early inspiration, as well as the styles of Eve, M.I.A., Santigold and Lil’ Mama.

Azealia released debut mixtape Gimme a Chance in February 2009 under the name Miss Bank$, along with a side-track called “Seventeen,” leading her to recognition by several industry names. Banks dropped the name Miss Bank$ and relocated to Montreal, where she created a strong internet presence through regular video and audio uploads to Youtube.

After receiving critical acclaim from BBC Radio and Pitchfork for several of her singles and videos, Banks began working with British producer Paul Epworth on a debut studio album, Broke with Expensive Taste, as well as an EP titled 1991, set for release on April 17th.

Tracks to check out:

-”212 (feat. Lazy Jay)”

-”L8R”

-”Liquorice”

-”Shady Love (feat. Azealia Banks)” by Scissor Sisters

The adorable songstress has some pretty ill style. Always fresh to death in her music videos, Banks seems to be emerging as a fashion icon of late, staying true to her NY roots by frequently donning colorful streetwear with modern additions of quirky and colorful flair. Above all, Banks is completely unpredictable – street and sweet – much like the “hip-pop” music she produces.

To better showcase the singer’s style, we’ve created a Polyvore set and Pinterest board in honor of Azealia. In the meantime, definitely check out her music if you haven’t already. Can’t wait to see her live!