BY: Foibe Shahepa
Namibia’s musical industry continuously witnesses new talent and Fernando Ruben, publicly known as Bankx, is no exception. He is an upcoming singer who is making waves on social media with his song “Karere Woge,” which has received over 800,000 views in just four months.
This song, which features M-Gee, one of the best rappers in the Kavango East region, was recently posted on YouTube and rapidly became a social media sensation.
Born and bred in Rundu, a town in the Mighty Kavango East region, Bankx’s musical adventure began shortly after matriculating in 2016, when he joined a band called SELF-MADE. Together with his band, they performed at a variety of large and local events in and around Rundu until 2020, when he decided to go solo and focus on Afro Pop music as a solo artist.
Bankx went on to sign his first record deal this year with a record label founded by Rundu-based music producer, Ally the Mini KING, who also serves as his manager. Bankx told unWrap.online about how he was fortunate to be the first artist to be signed. When asked about their collaboration, Ally the mini KING agreed with Bankx’s remarks, saying, “we are going to work at our level best to improve both the label and the artist to the best of our ability.” He went on to say that he feels it is possible with hard effort and determination.
Currently, he is working on his first album, which includes tracks with TKBs, M-Gee, Tatty Swearich, Sheka Sean, M.I.G, and other local artists.
Finally, Bankx encouraged fellow musicians, saying, “I just want to encourage my fellow young musicians to keep believing in their work.” Continue to press forward, and no matter what the cost, attempt to invest in their work. The good times will come. “They will not support your work until they witness a stranger providing you with all the support you require,” I usually say. Above all, DO NOT FORGET TO PRAY.
