Tank & The Bangas
Saturday, June 28th @ Belly UP
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Tank and the Bangas are a genre-blending, high-energy band from New Orleans, led by the charismatic Tarriona “Tank” Ball. Their music fuses funk, hip-hop, soul, spoken word, and more, creating a unique sound that’s captivated audiences worldwide. Here are 10 fun and interesting facts about Tank & The Bangas:
Origin of the Name
Tank explained the band’s name reflects their dynamic energy: “A tank does nothing but make noise and blow shit up.”
Tiny Desk Triumph
In 2017, they won NPR’s Tiny Desk Contest with their song “Quick,” standing out among over 6,000 entries. Their performance was praised for its organic and spontaneous feel.
Slam Poetry Roots
Tank’s passion for slam poetry, influenced by her sister and a New Orleans slam team, deeply informs the band’s lyrical and performance style.
Grammy Recognition
Their 2024 album, The Heart, The Mind, The Soul, earned them a Grammy for Best Spoken Word Poetry Album in 2025.
Viral Sensation
The song “DM Pretty” went viral on TikTok in 2023, boosting their popularity ahead of the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival.
Eclectic Influences
The band describes their style as “Disney Soul,” blending elements of funk, soul, hip-hop, rock, and spoken word into a cohesive sound.
Personal Journey
After Hurricane Katrina, Tank lived in Indianapolis, graduating from Pike High School in 2006, an experience that shaped her artistic perspective.
Power in Vulnerability
Tank believes in the strength of vulnerability, stating, “There’s so much power in vulnerability and truth.”
Dynamic Performances
Known for their electrifying live shows, NPR Music has called them “one of the best live bands in America,” highlighting their blend of poetry, hip-hop, gospel, funk, and rock.
Culinary Affection
Tank has a deep love for New Orleans cuisine, often indulging in local favorites like jambalaya and strawberry snoballs with ice cream, especially during festival seasons.
On their Grammy Winning –
Tank and the Bangas achieved a significant milestone by winning the Best Spoken Word Poetry Album at the 67th Annual Grammy Awards in 2025 for their album The Heart, The Mind, The Soul . This three-part collection, released as individually themed EPs, showcases the band’s fusion of music and poetry, highlighting Tarriona “Tank” Ball’s lyrical prowess. The album was lauded for its innovative blend of genres and heartfelt storytelling, setting it apart in a competitive category that included works by Queen Sheba, Omari Hardwick, Malik Yusef, and Mad Skillz. In their acceptance speech, Tank and the Bangas expressed gratitude to their fans and the Recording Academy, emphasizing the importance of authenticity and vulnerability in their art. This Grammy win not only marks a career highlight for the band but also underscores the evolving recognition of spoken word poetry within mainstream music awards.