Jacob Banks – The Foundry – Philadelphia, PA – December 1, 2017 (A PopEntertainment.com Concert Revi

Updated: Jun 27, 2022

Jacob Banks – The Foundry – Philadelphia, PA – December 1, 2017

Jacob Banks, a British-Nigerian singer and songwriter from Birmingham, England made a stop at the Foundry in Philadelphia PA on a Friday evening in December. Banks released his debut EP “The Monologue” in 2013 and has since released two additional EP’s, “The Paradox” (which came out in 2015) and his most recent EP “The Boy Who Cried Freedom” which came out in April. Banks has toured with artists such as Emeli Sandé, Sam Smith and Alicia Keys around the UK and is currently on his own headlining tour making stops across Europe and the United States.

At around 8:15, singer/songwriter Bibi Bourelly opened up the show to a welcoming crowd. Bourelly is known for her songwriting skills, which have led her to write or co-write for artists such as Lil Wayne, Rihanna, Usher and more.

Following Bourelly’s lively set, Banks hit the stage wearing his signature beanie on his head. He started off strong and captivated the crowd with his incredible vocals. The passion was clear to see, as he sung with his eyes closed and his hands either gripping the microphone or out in front of him.

Banks’ band behind him included a bassist, a drummer, and a guitarist/keyboard player. Banks’ powerful voice filled every inch of the room as those in the crowd sung along or watched attentively.

Banks slowed things down a bit as he began to strum his light blue electric guitar and play a new song called “Pilot,” singing the words “It’s not like I’m still in love, I’m just used to being yours / It’s not like I’m still holding onto you, I’m just used to being us” as a hush fell over the audience. That night, Jacob Banks made the Foundry stage his own and captivated the crowd with his soulful voice and beautifully written lyrics.

Ruth Bekele