When it comes to music history, New Orleans, Louisiana is overflowing with beginnings, stories and legendary artists alike. It is the birthplace of Jazz, the home of Mardi Gras and of such well-known artists as Louis Armstrong, Aaron Neville, and Lil Wayne. Now we have a new name to add to that list of New Orleans musical heritage. Alfred Banks.
Alfred Banks recently dropped his video to “Vice” off his most recent release, The Beautiful. “Vice” features his longtime friend and collaborator CZA. The track details his grind in this music game while representing his movement, UnderDogCentral. CZA is also the producer behind every song on, The Beautiful.
The Beautiful is a journey that starts with the funeral of his brother who suffered from Schizophrenia. Alfred’s struggle to decide if he should stay with his family that day or perform at an important show that evening becomes the setting for the LP. He ends up choosing the latter knowing that his brother who was a major supporter of his music would want him to push on with his passion.
Alfred states that this album was both easy and hard for him to write at the same time. The words and concepts came easily to him while working on the project. However, the reality of the subject matter made him rethink some very tough moments. Seeing his brother for the first time in ten years and going through an episode in front him was one of them. The moment was an eye-opening experience for Alfred and something he would never forget.
“It was super easy to write because it was already on my mind…I just wrote what I felt. It was easy and hard…It was the most personal thing I’ve ever put out…” – Alfred Banks
The album ultimately concludes with Alfred making it to that show and performing, but not before dealing with all the emotions that come with losing a loved one. During the 12 track LP Alfred deals with the scary thought that he may also face these same demons as his brother. This album is an intimate look into dealing with schizophrenia whether personally or through someone close to them.
Alfred dropped one of the most well put together projects I’ve heard in a long time and that’s just the tip of the iceberg for the N.O. artist. Over the past few years, Alfred has seen his accomplishments grow at a very fast rate. Those accomplishments would include being named a “Top Ten Upcoming New Orleans Artist” by Complex. Placing his song “UnderDogCentral” in the film, Burning Sands, executive produced by Common for Netflix. Collaborating with Bay Area star G-Eazy and forging a working relationship and lifelong friendship with New York rapper Mickey Factz. Alfred would meet Mickey Factz at a meet in greet where an impromptu freestyle session would lead to multiple collaborations, touring the country together and a brother for life.
“To know that Common maybe heard my record is nuts” – Alfred Banks
There’s no doubt in my mind that Alfred Banks is a name you will all know in the near future. Catch Alfred on tour this April with Mickey Factz.
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