Summer Banton

Summer Banton is a 21-year-old singer/ songwriter, hailing from south-east London. Leading with creativity and a passion for her craftNEO caught up with Summer to find out what life is like for her outside music and to be honest we were pretty shocked at how serious her degree is. Summer Banton is not just giving us beauty and creativity but she is very knowledgeable too!

NEO:How would you describe your music journey?

SUMMER BANTON:So far it’s been such a positive learning experience. My first proper industry experience was through a collaborative project called ‘NEXXT STEP’ run by Sian Anderson and Sponsored by the mayor of London. The whole project taught me so much about the industry and how it all works. Since stepping into my own solo artistry I’ve continued to learn more about the industry and grow, establishing my sound and figuring out what I want to say as an artist. As a whole it’s been so positive!

NEO:What’s life like for you outside of music?

SUMMER BANTON:It’s pretty normal! I’ve just graduated from university with a 2:1 honours degree in Politics and International Relations which I studied for 3 years whilst also pursuing my music. Im a big big family person, I’m a big sister to two very teenage brothers and I’m constantly online shopping (me and Amazon have a needy relationship).

NEO:Who is your biggest inspiration?

SUMMER BANTON:Within music and the industry I look up to Beyoncé so much. Like she’s the QUEEN foreal. I love how she has a signature musical style, but she’s able to delve into so many different genres and still stay true to herself. Her creativity and work rate is mad and her new film ‘Black Is King’ is literally the most amazing thing ever. I’m definitely a loyal and devoted member of the Beyhive for LIFE. Outside of music I’d say my grandma. I aspire to have even just a tiny bit of the courage and strength that she has. She moved to England from Jamaican back in the 50’s and the life she was able to pave for my family inspires me to do better every day.

NEO:What is your creative process like?

SUMMER BANTON:I always start on the piano at home, locked in my bedroom. It usually starts with me playing random chords and singing 100 different melodies and recording them in voice memos. Then I usually think up some lyrics based on what I really want to talk/ sing about at the time or something I’m going through. Then I take these ideas to the studio where they flourish and become actual tracks! I also do loads and loads of listening to lots of different genres in and out of the studio to get a sense of the vibe that I’m going for sonically.

NEO:What was the reason behind the title of your last release (Go Away)?

SUMMER BANTON:To be honest I was having a little strop about somebody and decided to write a song about it. I’m literally the most non-confrontational person ever. I absolutely HATE it. But doing music allows me to rant and vent through my songs and writing. So really the title ‘Go Away’ is super aggressive and ‘out there’ for me but it was just how I was feeling!!

NEO:What do you enjoy most about being a musician?

SUMMER BANTON:Honestly I just love being able to SING! Being a musician allows me to be creative all the time so I can harness all of the creative energy that I’m constantly annoying my family and friends with 24/7. I love being in the studio and coming up with new ideas and the moment when everything comes together literally gives me goosebumps every time *cringe*

NEO: You are left in the world with three songs: what would they be? And why?

SUMMER BANTON:The first would be ‘Gone’ by Alex Isley because her voice would be the only thing that could keep me calm and grounded. Second would be ‘Woi’ by Digga D because I’d need something to TURN UP to by myself. And the third would be ‘Waiting In Vain’ by Bob Marley because big up the motherland each and every time.

NEO:What three words would your friends use to describe you as?

SUMMER BANTON:Definitely creative because they’ve been stuck with my constant singing 24/7. They’d probably say Dramatic because I am a big drama queen most of the time, I think it’s the Leo in me. Lastly they’d say silly.

NEO:You are in a small party with people you do not know. What would be your party trick you would bring out to lighten the mood?

SUMMER BANTON:Wow this is a difficult one. To be honest I don’t think I have a proper party trick BUT I’d definitely suggest a game or quiz of some type to break the ice. I love a general knowledge quiz. I’m SO competitive when it comes to games!

NEO:What is something you used to believe in that you do not believe in any more?

SUMMER BANTON: Probably that sometimes other people know what’s best for you. I’ve learned that you truly know what you are capable of and what is best. If I don’t feel something in my heart I won’t do it. As you grow you learn more about yourself and therefore you are the only one who knows that’s right!

NEO: Let us know where to find you, on your social media

SUMMER BANTON: @summerbanton on Instagram