South African-born, L.A.-based arty pop artist Binx performs at Academy LA this week, so we chatted…
L.A. WEEKLY: When did you start singing, writing and performing, and when did you realize it might be a career?
The first song I ever sang was “Ruby Tuesday” by The Rolling Stones when I was 2. (I will actually actually be watching them perform live for the second time at The Rose Bowl on the 22nd of August!) I wrote my first song at 7 after discovering Britney Spears. I took vocal and guitar lessons at 10 and won my first singing competition at age 12. I have always, always wanted to sing and perform on stage. It was never a decision and no one ever questioned if there was anything else I ever wanted to do, I was born to do it. I am originally from East London, South Africa and moved to the Big Apple, New York years ago to pursue a music career until finally making the move to Los Angeles in January 2018.
Describe your style…
I have two styles: music and fashion. I make pop music with African influences. One of my songs, “African Heart” I sing in 3 traditional South African languages. My fashion style is super avant-garde. Anything that is over-the-top, statement and bold, just like my personality! My signature outfit is a bumble bee leotard and beehive hairdo which I wear on stage because I am known for my alter ego, “The African Bee” as I am helping to save the bees with my music.
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What recorded output do you have available right now?
I currently have one EP and one album out, and two singles. A total of 17 released songs. My EP The African Bee and my album, Buzzed are available on Spotify, Apple Music and all music platforms.
What can we expect from this L.A. set?
I will be performing a 30 minute set which will include an unreleased single (from my new album coming in autumn) at my show at Academy LA on the 14th of August. You can expect tons of on-stage costume changes, high energy songs and a dramatic performance by The African Bee!
When that’s done, what else do you have planned for this year?
I am in the midst of recording my new full album. The first single will be out on the 13th of September. I have shows lined up in September and October here in Los Angeles and I will then be touring South Africa in November.
Binx plays at Academy LA on Wednesday, August 14.
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