STREAM EXCLUSIVE ORIGINALS

Tank and the Bangas on Grammy Glory, Creative Rituals, and Lessons in Resilience

Fresh off their Grammy nomination for 'The Heart, The Mind, The Soul,' Tank and the Bangas reflect on their genre-defying journey, pre-show rituals, and the music that shaped their soulful sound.

The New Orleans-based band Tank and the Bangas have captivated audiences with their genre-defying sound, blending elements of R&B, hip-hop, funk, and spoken word poetry. Renowned for their electrifying live performances and lyrical depth, the group has been nominated for Best Spoken Word Poetry Album at the 2025 Grammy Awards for The Heart, The Mind, The Soul. As they celebrate this milestone, band members Tarriona "Tank" Ball and Norman Spence share insights into their creative process, inspirations, and lessons learned along the way.

Pre-Performance Rituals: Finding Their Zone

For Tank, getting ready for a performance is a mix of personal and practical rituals. “I do a vocal warm-up alone. It’s too embarrassing to do it with everyone around!” she says with a laugh. Doing her makeup is another important part of her routine, as it helps her focus and unwind. “I really enjoy it,” she shares, often scrolling through TikTok while stretching and applying makeup. These quiet moments allow her to center herself before the high-energy demands of the stage.

The Songs They Wish They Wrote

Tank’s admiration for legendary songwriting is evident in the tracks she wishes she had penned. Stevie Wonder’s entire catalog tops her list: “Every single Stevie Wonder song. They’re so good!” she says. Carl Carlton’s “Bad Mama Jama” and Luther Vandross’s “Never Too Much” also make the cut for their infectious grooves and impeccable lyricism. “I love how fast it is but you can understand every word he says,” she notes about Vandross’s classic.

Lessons for Their Younger Selves

Reflecting on her journey, Tank offers thoughtful advice to her younger self: “You’re always good enough. You’re creative enough.” She emphasizes the importance of physical preparation, joking, “Stay in shape so you can dance all night!” Tank also highlights the value of rehearsing both alone and with the band, building confidence through preparation. Leadership and communication are key lessons she’s learned along the way: “Speak to people the way you’d like to be spoken to,” she advises.

Studio and Tour Essentials

When it comes to essentials, Tank and Norman agree on the importance of comfort and creativity. Tank’s must-haves include gum, amber oil, and headphones, while Norman prioritizes gear like a guitar or bass, a Moog or other analog instruments, and his go-to software, Omnisphere. “An open mind” is his ultimate tool, reflecting the band’s inventive approach to music-making.

Lyrics That Resonate

Tank takes pride in her poignant and imaginative lyrics, many of which reflect the band’s distinctive voice. Lines like “Everything that was stolen now can be reborn” and “I want the longest victory lap around heaven” showcase her poetic depth. Another standout, “I’m your baby I’m basically the big girl that’s been baking your heart in my stove hungry for your love,” demonstrates the band’s playful and vivid storytelling.

Albums That Shaped Their Sound

Tank and Norman’s musical influences are as eclectic as their sound. For Tank, albums like FUN: Aim and Ignite, The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill, and Queen’s Bohemian Rhapsody have left a lasting impact. Norman’s picks include Fantastic Vol. 2 by Slum Village, Voodoo by D’Angelo, and 1st Born 2nd by Bilal, reflecting the band’s deep roots in both neo-soul and experimental sounds.

The Road to The Heart, The Mind, The Soul

Tank and the Bangas’ Grammy-nominated album, The Heart, The Mind, The Soul, is a testament to their evolution as artists and storytellers. Seamlessly blending spoken word poetry with the musicality that has defined their career, the album captures themes of resilience, identity, and connection. “This album represents all of us—our hearts, our minds, and our souls,” Tank says.

From their roots in New Orleans to the Grammy stage, Tank and the Bangas continue to push boundaries, creating music that is both innovative and deeply personal. With their nomination, the band cements their place as one of the most dynamic and soulful acts of their generation.

Catch Tank and the Bangas on tour starting April 7th.

Subscribe for BET Updates

Provide your email address to receive our newsletter.


By clicking Subscribe, you confirm that you have read and agree to our Terms of Use and acknowledge our Privacy Policy. You also agree to receive marketing communications, updates, special offers (including partner offers) and other information from BET and the Paramount family of companies. You understand that you can unsubscribe at any time.