Nigerian rap queen Ms Banks is stepping into her latest era with all the power, vulnerability, and cultural pride of a “big queen on small street.” In a refreshing, soul-baring sit-down with Chinasa Anukam on her celebrated podcast, Ms Banks (real name Tyra), fresh off the May release of her single “Silhouette” and her feature on Zinoleesky’s “Ayamase,” gave fans a rare window into her personal and creative world—touching on everything from her love life and family to her relentless Nigerian hustle and her navigation of UK-Caribbean culture.
MsBanks and Chinasa Anukam
From Peckham to the World with Lagos Vibes
Sitting pretty in a pink Charles Jeffrey “Loverboy” beanie, Banks wasted no time claiming her roots: “They say Peckham is like a mini Lagos. My hustle is all Naija. I’ve really got that Naija blood—work, grind, and a little flamboyance. When I step out, it’s with pride. That’s my mum’s spirit.” Raised by a mother who arrived in the UK at 12 and gave birth to her at 17, Ms Banks credits her for showing her how to persevere. “She’s my hero. She always told me to live my youth, chase my dreams first, and never settle early.”
MsBanks
Love, Family, and Boss Energy
Ms Banks opened up about her love life, admitting her last kiss was “six weeks ago with someone special,” but was quick to keep her options open—“Don’t put all your eggs in one basket.” She also described herself as a fiery lover: “Dating me? One day it’s warm, next day we could burn the house down!” But when it comes to her siblings, she plays the caring big sis—guiding but never overbearing.
MsBanks and Chinasa Anukam
Proudly African in a Caribbean-Heavy UK
In a UK scene long dominated by Caribbean culture, Banks has always worn her African pride boldly. “Growing up, it was like all the cool stuff was credited to Caribbeans. But my mum and dad are both super patriotic, so I was always repping. Our culture, our food, our music—what’s not to be proud of?” She even schooled Chinasa in classic Nigerian parent phrases, breezing through the “How to Nigerian” quiz like a pro.
Music—From Rap Freestyles to Afrobeats Bangers
Ms Banks broke down the split between Tyra (“super nice, kind, empathetic”) and Ms Banks (“just a boss, very direct, will say what Tyra won’t”). After years of iconic freestyles (Kodak Black’s “Zezy” her favorite), she’s ready to peel back the layers in her next project: “I want to give something different, more vulnerable.” She’s also got “so many Afrobeat features” on the way and reminisced about her easy chemistry with Wizkid on “Snack.”
Her star-studded CV includes touring with Nicki Minaj, Cardi B, and Megan Thee Stallion (“biggest arenas ever—I learned so much about performance”). And yes, she’s “massive” on Afrobeats—because, in her words, “I’m Nigerian, as I should be!”
The Chinasa Anukam Podcast, A Safe Space for Black Women to Shine
The Chinasa Anukam podcast has become a sanctuary for Black women to speak their truth, unfiltered and with joy. Chinasa’s interviewing style is warm, disarming, and deeply researched—she gifts stress balls to nervous guests and always ends with words of encouragement.
Chinasa Anukam
Ms Banks: Still That Girl
As the conversation wound down, Ms Banks reflected on her journey, her work ethic, and her hope for the future: “You’ve got this. Don’t listen to naysayers. Stay focused. Anything is attainable.” With her new era unfolding, Ms Banks is repping Nigeria louder than ever—proud, unfiltered, and ready to show the world all her sides.
Omo, the girl is glowing, the music is hot, and the hustle? Pure Naija. Full price with no discounts. Big queen, global stage. Period.
Watch the full interview below.
