Today we’d like to introduce you to Handsome Boy Banks.
So, before we jump into specific questions, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
I grew up in Lansing, MI. I always was into films, music and comedy so I knew I was destined to come to Los Angeles. I began rapping at 14, but I was always trying to write songs before that. I did stand up for a while and that originally was what brought me to LA. I sold everything I had at one last show in my hometown and came to Cali with a carry-on. I worked at Starbucks off of Fairfax and Santa Monica for six years when I moved out here and I bartend at Perch as well. I had a show at the Upright Citizens Brigade off of Sunset Blvd with my roommates for a couple of years and after that ended I decided to focus more on music.
Great, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Selling everything I had to be able to afford to come out here was a huge risk for me. It wasn’t easy at all. I slept on couches for the first four years I was in Los Angeles. Moving from Pasadena to East Hollywood area to the valley and then to Hollywood. I also struggled with my self-confidence not sure if I was good enough to really try making music. Once my friends started liking what I was doing and playing my songs and I started booking shows my confidence grew. I also think coming from a small town where most people don’t leave further than a couple towns over just getting out was a struggle.
Please tell us more about your work. What do you do? What do you specialize in? What sets you apart from competition?
I’m a rapper, barista, bartender and comic. I specialize in music mainly of the hip hop variety, but with a heavy influence of pop. I’m most proud of my new single 2 Old available on all streaming services February 14th. I produced it myself and it’s one of my favorite songs I’ve made. I think what sets me apart from others is the fact that I treat my rap identity almost like a superhero. I can say all the things I might not say in daily life and truly get to express myself. Staying behind my secret identity as a bartender at night and brunches.
Is there a characteristic or quality that you feel is essential to success?
The qualities and characteristics I feel are most important to my success are hard work. Perseverance. Knowing when to listen to others and when to listen to yourself. Being kind. Staying humble. Understanding that life is all about perspective and trying to understand where others are coming from.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.handsomeboybanks.com
- Email: [email protected]
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/handsomeboybanks/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/handsomeboybanks/
- Twitter: https://mobile.twitter.com/lowkey_good
Image Credit:
Mackenzie Sheehan IG @kenzgotit
Suggest a story: VoyageLA is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
Sponsor Shoutout: Check out @dafreckledpoet on Instagram or some of her work below:
