305 on the Rise: Jah Bankzz Brings Miami Energy, Caribbean Influence and Creative Versatility to the Inaugural Class

South Florida artist Jah Bankzz is building a sound that reflects her Miami roots, Caribbean influences and years of creative expression through music, dance and performance.

The Miami Gardens native recently joined Hy-Lo News Senior Reporter Justin B. Smith for an interview on The Culture Report as part of the publication’s inaugural 305 on the Rise: Class of 2026, a series spotlighting emerging artists making their mark across South Florida.

During the conversation, Bankzz discussed her introduction to music, the experiences that shaped her artistry and her plans to expand beyond music.

Although she’s now pursuing a career as a recording artist, Bankzz said her creative journey started with dance. Growing up, she participated in two local dance groups, Directing Effect Dance Group and Precious Treasures, while also singing in her church choir.

She credited her childhood love of music and performance, along with artists like Missy Elliott, as early influences. Her interest in rap also developed through informal sessions with friends while growing up.

Bankzz described herself as a Miami girl, born and raised, who has always been driven to explore different interests. She attended Scott Lake Elementary, North Dade Middle and North Miami Beach Senior High School, and participated in activities ranging from cheerleading and basketball to volleyball, chess and cross country.

She said having a mother who supported her different creative interests helped shape the confidence and determination she carries into her work today.

When it comes to describing her sound, Bankzz said listeners can expect a mix of styles and emotions.

“I would describe it as very raw, very blunt. It could be aggressive at times, but it also could be calm and melodic and peaceful,” she said.

Her music also carries recognizable elements of South Florida, particularly Miami’s influence on its production and energy. Bankzz said listeners outside the state can often identify her Florida roots through the bass, beats and the way she incorporates movement and audience participation into her music.

However, she doesn’t want to be limited to one sound.

The artist pointed to her project, The Warm Up, as an introduction to the different directions she hopes to explore. She explained that the project represented a period when she was preparing to introduce herself to a wider audience while showing that her artistry extended beyond traditional Miami sounds.

Tracks like “Get Right” and “Move Your Body” showcase different sides of her musical identity, with the latter incorporating more Caribbean influences.

For Bankzz, one song that best captures who she is as an artist is “Gold Digger” — spelled G-O-A-L rather than G-O-L-D.

She said the song reflects her commitment to pursuing her ambitions, standing on her principles and working toward what she wants without waiting for opportunities or handouts.

“I don’t sit around waiting on no handouts and I just go get what I want,” she said.

That mindset also extends to how she approaches creating music. Bankzz explained that she often takes time to sit quietly and listen to a beat before deciding what direction a song should take. Her mood and the energy of the production help determine whether she leans toward rapping, melodic vocals or something that encourages listeners to dance.

Beyond her individual music career, Bankzz said she’s found a supportive creative community through The Vibe Room, which she credited with helping her develop as an artist and better understand the music industry.

She also spoke about the importance of being included in 305 on the Rise’s inaugural class, saying the recognition reassures her that people are noticing the work and passion she’s putting into her career.

“To know there’s a platform and they’re showcasing and spotlighting upcoming artists and I’m a part of it, it just makes me happy,” she said.

While Bankzz is focused on her own growth, she’s also paying attention to other emerging South Florida artists. During the interview, she named Pink Bambi, A.D. Mack, Amaya Music, Exotic the Artist and Steve-O Da Vinci among the local talent she believes deserves more recognition.

She noted that there are many artists in the area creating music that audiences have yet to discover, adding that the region’s sound continues to evolve through a mix of influences and genres.

Bankzz’s creative pursuits also extend beyond recording and performing. She revealed that she’s currently exploring acting and modeling, with fashion shows and short films among the projects she’s working on.

As for what’s next musically, Bankzz said she’s working on new music and has been previewing some unreleased material during recent performances. She kept additional details under wraps but said she’s consistently working on new projects.

For listeners discovering her music for the first time, she recommends starting with “Gold Digger.” Ultimately, she hopes her music leaves people feeling motivated, inspired and encouraged to take care of themselves physically, mentally and spiritually.

Whether that means getting up to exercise, taking a walk outside or simply dancing with friends, she wants listeners to connect with the energy behind her music.

Jah Bankzz is a member of Hy-Lo News’ inaugural 305 On The Rise Class of 2026, highlighting emerging artists connected to South Florida. Find her music and updates at @heyimjah_ and on YouTube at Jah Banks Official.