INTERVIEW:
Binky
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I last spoke with Binky when she released her incredible…
debut single, Fireflies. With her latest gem, Jackie D, showing that initial success was no fluke; I have been talking with the songwriter about her influences and mixing Country music in with a tougher, urban/‘London’ sound.
She tells me about the artists who have helped guide her; whether there is more material coming down the line; when she first took to music and singing; the three albums that mean the most to her – I learn what Binky has in store for the remainder of this year.
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Hi, Binky. How are you? How has your week been?
Hi. I feel like I am on Cloud Nine. This last week has been absolutely amazing! I am overwhelmed by the amazing support from everyone, again, following my debut single, Fireflies. I always get butterflies when releasing new music as I want to make sure I delivery nothing but the best! So; it feels like such an achievement when I get such a wonderful response to a new single.
For those new to your music; can you introduce yourself, please?
Well. Where do I start…?!
My name’s Binky and I am an aspiring Country music artist from London. I fell in love with Country music quite late in life - I was seventeen/eighteen when I first started to write and perform Country music...but I haven’t looked back since! Although I love Country music, I do love Pop, Indie and many more genres. That’s where I found my sound: I wanted to merge the Nashville Country sound with an urban, London sound.
I hope that most of you will agree that’s what I have portrayed in my singles, Fireflies and Jackie D.
Fireflies, your debut single, was a considerable success. Was it quite surprising seeing it do so well?! How did it make you feel knowing so many loved the song?!
Fireflies achieved so much more than I ever dreamed off. As my debut single, I was so nervous, as this was setting the bar for myself as an artist as well - as showing the world who I am and what I represent.
However, the incredible response and support mean more to me than I could even explain. Every single person who downloaded, streamed and shared Fireflies have made my dreams come true. I can’t wait to share so much more with you all!
Jackie D is new. What inspired you to write the song?
I actually have no idea. I and my producer, Michael Stockwell, wrote the base and melody first and then the story just fell into place. We were working from a studio in Brick Lane at the time - and I think the atmosphere of everyone being happy and going out with friends just brought this storyline to life. A young girl out on the town with friends, just looking to have fun. I mean; who can’t relate to that?!
The song is vivacious, bold and exciting. I get hints of artists like Kelsea Ballerini. Do you get a lot of inspiration from artists like this?
Yes, always. The Country market in the U.S. is swamped with so many incredible, inspiring artist, but I also find inspiration in many Pop and Rap artists. I think I relate more to the personalities of artists and the way they portray themselves.
Miley Cyrus is one of my biggest inspirations. I think she is a wonderful artist. I just love her free spirit - and she allows herself to follow her heart and enjoy everything she does.
Is there going to be more material? What is your next move going to be?
Yes. I have so much more to show you and I have big plans to bring you all lots of material this year - along with live performances, which are in the pipeline too.
That raw voice and power must have taken time to perfect! Did you start singing at a young age? What was it about Country that drew you to the genre?
I think the likes of Stevie Nicks and Tina Turner are to thank for my vocals. I fell in love with the raspy tones of Stevie Nicks when I was around thirteen-years-old. I have always sung and performed from an early age. But, I started to focus on singing professionally when I was around fifteen. But; a real role model for me was Tina Turner. No, she’s not a Country artist, but her strength and raw talent were just incredible, and I always wanted to be like her.
When I started to focus on Country music, I inspired to The Dixie Chicks, Carrie Underwood; Miranda Lambert and, of course, Dolly Parton. I absolutely love the vibrato Dolly Parton has - and this is the one thing that made me love her even more.
How important is London and its people to you? Is it a wonderful place to write music?
London is so close to my heart. To have the support and love from London means so much to me. It’s so hard to push Country music in London, as it’s not a sound the population are used to. However; I have found that, once you play it and don’t tell them its Country, that it becomes their guilty pleasure.
So, I know there is a market for me here and not just in the U.S. London is an incredible place to write; it’s very different to Nashville and other places as Londoners seem to be a tad more reckless. But; I have so much fun writing and producing in London.
Do you have any gigs lined up? Where are you heading?
I will be releasing some live gigs very soon, which you will be able to find on all of my social media (or my website).
Will you get a chance to play in the U.S.? Have you played in cities like Nashville and Austin?
Of course. My plans are to move into the U.S. market very soon which, again, you will all be informed of this very soon. I have played in Nashville around four years ago now and I absolutely loved it! I can’t wait to go back.
If you had to select the three albums that mean the most to you; which would they be and why?
Taylor Swift – 1989
This album gave me the love to merge a Country and London sound. This album was incredible - and I can only dream to have an album this amazing one day.
This isn’t an album, but I love Miley Cyrus’ (MTV) Unplugged sessions
Again; this was such a cool, laid-back funky style of Country, which represents everything I want to be myself. The vibe of these tracks is so great.
Adele – 21
This album had a massive impact on my vocals and sound today. I learnt so much about writing a wonderful love song. I feel that every track on the album - and the emotional connection she portrayed on that album - is the reason she is an astonishing artist (and one-of-the-kind).
What do you hope to achieve in 2018?
2018 is my year. I hope to achieve worldwide recognition for my music and myself as an artist - which will allow me to continue making music, perform and following my dream.
Have you got a favourite memory from your time in music – the one that sticks in the mind?
Not really. I mean; I feel like I have done so many amazing things already: it’s hard to pinpoint a moment.
What advice would you give to new artists coming through?
Do not give up. If in doubt; put your music out and take on-board all feedback, good and bad. This will make you stronger and will assist you in being the best you can be. Criticism is good. Don’t get deflated by this: turn it into a positive by working on them and getting better at everything you do.
Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?
This is really naughty, but I have spent so much time underground working on my music. I am behind on my research! But, I will be sure to share any newcomers who catch my eye.
Do you get much time to chill away from music? How do you unwind?
No. My music is constant. I’m always working on new ideas and, even when I’m not, one just pops to mind. I always carry a Dictaphone so I don’t forget new ideas if my out and about. However; I do force myself to take Sundays off – and, a majority of the time, I do.
I might do the odd bits and pieces but I try to make sure I spend most of the time with family and unwind. This always helps me start the week with a clear and focused mind.
Finally, and for being a good sport; you can choose a song and I’ll play it here (not any of your music - I will do that).
I am a massive fan of Florida Georgia Line and their new single with Bebe Rexha, Let It Be. I love this song - and it is very similar to what I am trying to do.
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