An Interview with Tarriona “Tank“ Ball of Tank & The Bangas
If you haven’t heard of the NPR Tiny Desk Contest winners and Grammy-nominated group, Tank and The Bangas yet then you are missing out! We had the opportunity to sit down with Tarriona ‘Tank‘ Ball and learn more about her experience in the music industry.
What initially got you interested in music?
Tank: I became interested in music a long time ago. Kid’s choir, middle school, high school...I always wanted to join a choir because I loved being around people with like interest. The thing that really grabbed my heart was when I went to a open mic in New Orleans that was so nurturing to my ear and soul. That’s where I met the Bangas that gave birth to this love affair with music.
What are some goals you have set for yourself?
Tank: Too many to name and too many to realize I haven’t been achieving but I try on Monday’s.
How did you get your start in the music industry?
Tank: I don’t feel apart of the industry. I don’t know why. I guess I feel like we’re contributing our music to the world in our special way, but not necessarily apart of or influenced by the machine. I will say that we were signed to Verve in 2017.
What do you consider some of your greatest achievements?
Tank: Certain things are important to me that wouldn’t be considered achievements but here goes, living in London with my band, traveling to different countries, being independent so long, winning tiny desk, making black girls smile.Saying you’re Grammy nominated has a very nice ring to it.
What are some challenges you’ve faced in the music industry?
Tank: Some of the challenges I’ve experienced have been not feeling creative enough or realizing that the industry doesn’t celebrate brown women.
What advice do you have for aspiring female musicians?
Tank: My advice: There are 20 bazillion fingers in the world, and not one is like yours. Imagine how unique the rest of you is. There lies your power. Accept your extraordinary-ness.
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