Tank And The Bangas: NPR Music Tiny Desk Concert

Bob Boilen | March 10, 2017 - Out of over 6,000 entries - more submissions than we've ever received - Tank And The Bangas won, unanimously, this year's Tiny Desk Contest. I fully expected their victory performance here at NPR headquarters in D.C. to be celebratory. I didn't know we'd all end up in tears.
This band combines R&B with hip-hop's poetry and rollercoaster storytelling, with a flair and alchemy that could only come from New Orleans. Their winning song, "Quick," mixes liquor and revenge - a sort of modern day take on a great folk tale, but peppered with their own idiosyncratic flair and humor. What I couldn't see, until they took over my desk, was the depth of their lyricism and the versatility of their players. At one moment fun-filled funk, the next laid-back jazz, rhythm-driven blues - and it all flows seamlessly. And it's fun to watch: There's a magic kinship between Tarriona "Tank" Ball and Anjelika "Jelly" Joseph as they share singing roles, like two best friends finishing one another's sentences.
This is the third year that NPR Music has put out a call in hopes of finding a shining star. I'm still amazed how, after sifting through thousands of videos from abundantly talented musicians, we can find a common winner amongst a range of judges with such different musical backgrounds. But in the end, my All Songs Considered co-host Robin Hilton, Trey Anastasio (Phish), Miguel, Anthony Hamilton, Ben Hopkins (PWR BTTM), BANKS, and folks who listen to an awful lot of music - NPR member station hosts Rita Houston (WFUV), Talia Schlanger (WXPN), Stas THEE Boss (KEXP) - and myself were all equally charmed, delighted and captivated.
And so here it is, a chance to see an artist truly blossoming. It's just the beginning: A few years ago, for our first Contest, Fantastic Negrito won our hearts. This year he won a Grammy. Last year Gaelynn Lea, an unknown violinist, teacher and singer sent a video captured on a phone and won our affection and souls. A few weeks ago, her Tiny Desk Concert had been seen more than a million times. These days she's taken to the road, touring the world.
Tank And The Bangas will be hitting the road in April with NPR Music to find their new audience - I'll be along for the ride - visiting many of our member stations with help from those music-loving beer brewers at Lagunitas. I can't wait to see the reaction in these crowds' eyes, as they fill with wonder and tears like ours did, experiencing this band for the first time.
Set List
"Boxes And Squares"
"Quick"
"Rollercoasters"
Musicians
Tarriona Tank Ball (vocals); Jelly Joseph (vocals); Merell Burkett Jr. (keys); Norman Spence II (keys); Joshua Johnson (drums); Jonathan Johnson (bass); Albert Allenback (saxophone)
Credits
Producers: Bob Boilen, Niki Walker; Audio Engineer: Josh Rogosin; Videographers: Niki Walker, Nick Michael, Bronson Arcuri, Morgan Noelle Smith; Production Assistants: A Noah Harrison, Ameeta Ganatra; Photo: Niki Walker/NPR.
For more Tiny Desk concerts, subscribe to our podcast: www.npr.org/pod...

[@nprmusic]

Tank and the Bangas won our Tiny Desk Contest in 2017. Want to play your own Tiny Desk concert? Unsigned musicians, enter the 2024 Contest between Jan. 23 and Feb. 21. Learn more: npr.org/tinydeskcontest.

[@jalensmith3113]

Top 5 of all time.

[@MorganAmerica]

I'm gonna apply! I don't have a bNd yet but I can sing....❤❤❤❤ Ferris

[@minksmith5366]

Congrats to Tank n the Bangers ❤❤❤

[@mizz2gi]

Please have them back this year. It’s time to run this back. Perfection.

[@AroundTheWayGirl88]

2024

[@tiarawhitley4585]

Who’s here in 2024?! 🔥🎉 These are timeless songs at this point! 😮‍💨

[@stagher]

Almost weekly. That harmony at 20:15 still gives me chills.

[@shintadwimawaddha3958]

me tooooo

[@tulsacaupain2882]

This evening in Amsterdam 🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉❤🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉

[@Limowrreck]

I will NEVER get tired of this performance. They're one of the best bands I've ever seen live, this only captures a fraction of the vibe ❤

[@jaestace]

Present! ✋🏾

[@dedeco420]

Hey you, welcome back! I know this isn’t your first time here

[@miriam4951]

haha! i feel spotted.

[@renatarawlings-goss8608]

I will not be called out like this @Andre! (But it is so true)

[@BlueberryBoogie]

Lol

[@mjones681]

My 10th time I need this in 2021

[@jamaikadiekiwi]

This is indeed a true statement, lol

[@gianniclaud]

That was not a performance. It was an experience.

[@poppybell8217]

You nailed it! Yup.

[@mishuoren394]

Preach like you in the poolpit

[@jj9533]

Real shit

[@nycbxgirl5486]

COME THRU on the truth GIANNI!! AN EXPERIENCE!!

[@cyrillewis9606]

#AMEN!!!

[@earsNjellii]

It’s been 7 years and I’m still coming back to watch this. Rollercoaster was playing in the delivery room when my daughter was born. Thank y’all and bless y’all for such beautiful music.

[@KevOnStageStudios]

NO matter how many times i watch this I still come back and watch it again.

[@erickacole3818]

Me too. Did you catch that dope freestyle/Jam session?

[@starr6198]

I was just about to write the same thing!

[@asia2067]

Me too Kev! They're amazing!

[@roderickrogers7115]

Same with your videos too!!! I keep going back and watching

[@shonae010]

Indeed!

[@kaly2010]

Yo this not just music, this a whole broadway show i'm honestly so amazed. Didn't know music could be THIS expressive, whimsical, beautiful, and chill at the same time. I'm in love.

[@kterrell123kt]

kaly I said the exact same thing to my friend last night when my friend showed this to me. This is absolutely beautiful.

[@twitcutie]

kaly Jesus I see your profile pic...it's wonderful. Always appreciate great things 😭

[@matthieuvanderwielen2697]

you should check some frank zappa recordings

[@elliots-l2482]

💯

[@tbee1575]

kaly YEEEEEEEES!!!!

[@dannylowlaw]

There's so much going on vocally and instrumentally, I'm going to rewatch this an obnoxious number of times

[@itschefevelyn]

I've watched about ten times and I notice something new each time, it's like watching a good movie and noticing more and more clues each time. Very well crafted!

[@etrwilliams]

Danny Lozano I'm so glad to know I'm not the only one! I've dissected this performance and previous ones to find my favorite parts, and enjoy it like new all over again. 😃

[@maira1195]

this is the new age of music

[@fedup9073]

I noticed the same thing. Absolutely incredible.

[@mayaj291]

maiya dingle thank goodness lol

[@Neesapbsp]

It’s 2024, and I’m back. This will forever be one of my favorite top 5 NPR tiny desk performances. ❤

[@almaguillot8597]

Tank sings, raps, acts, recites and is funny all in one song. I've never seen anything quite like it.

[@tonio331]

Jill Scott is probably the only person I can think of!!!!! Almost identical!

[@mkuehter12]

Then she has a moment of being herself between songs with a big smile on her face and right on the first beat/note of the next song she snaps back to acting and rapping/singing without an obvious cue.

[@latenightcashews]

mkuehter12 theatrical magic it seems

[@AS-ht5bp]

It's amazing

[@neetw596]

She reminds me of Jill Scott

[@udochiekwerike3856]

I am obsessed with Tank's energy! Let nothing but light touch her!

[@solargeknowles4354]

Yes.

[@seandaiger88]

Me too, there is something special about her.

[@twil7272]

I just want to kick it with her, she gives off so much good energy!

[@carlacreech9403]

collabo...

[@Soul.in.the.garden]

Amen!

[@danielmurphy20]

Her use of storytelling and emotion is incredible.thank you!

[@namesake1]

Where can I procure a pair of those banana pants?

[@laurenemigh8742]

Forever 21 for sure.

[@publicemail6518]

Incredible performance, all of them.

[@sephenlove]

Daniel Murphy g

[@JaTaunPratt]

Does anyone else cry when she says take off. I don't know why, but I felt like she released every problem I have when she said that

[@sikleqt]

Still the most amazing Tiny Desk concert I have heard to this day. The pure talent of these women as well as the band is insane.

[@scottf2406]

Definitely up there, which says A LOT. Can't sleep on Anderson.Paak's either. Splitting hairs

[@marielilemes]

I 💯 % agree! 🤍🌊🪷🤍

[@courteneybrown3290]

Erykah badu’s was good too

[@saldoug7467]

Big Daddy Cane's performance was insane as well ..But i agree..I want to see this ensemble live.

[@otis7847]

This reminds me of the Tiny Desk with, Hobo Johnson and The Love Makers. My first time listen to this Concert, and I am having fun.

[@naturalTJ]

What in the Badu, Jill Scott, Robert Glasper, Floetry kinda group is this Man I’m loving it!!!!! 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥

[@LuvJones44]

The same thing I said 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🙌🏽👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽👩🏾

[@NerveWrecker06]

I said the same! I've never heard of them before but I absolutely love them.

[@bridgetgilliam1837]

Animated like Missy Elliott & Busta Rhymes with a hint of Jill Scott seasoned with Badu....

[@NaturallySassi]

Hahaha I said the same..... I love what I’m hearing

[@islandgal2583]

ConsciousEsthetics 🤣😂😁

[@ShumbalumProductions]

I bet she gives the best hugs

[@nycecrew4829]

shumbalum she does. seriously

[@Sarada.Amaru.999]

shumbalum Yesssss so much SOUL!!!!💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖

[@FirstnameLastname-jz1ux]

i feel like she hugged me with her song

[@svalle4721]

I met her today, and she does! Such a sweet spirit!

[@selmabaemedi383]

I want a whole Netflix documentary of them touring the world and them giving us joy.

[@shanec9840]

GOOD idea!

[@TrustPax]

documentary series!

[@marilynpalmer4411]

I agree!

[@glh5622]

Their big shows are CRAZY. I was not ready after only knowing this lol

[@yahneyoung5505]

Meeee Toooooo💗

[@tha.fupa.troopa]

If you don’t know what “Black Girl Magic” is, THIS IS IT!

[@kimberlina.54]

Yessss

[@lilnetti9242]

ALL FACTS

[@Sunshinerockfinder]

Period. That was all she wrote 🎉 P.S. love always ❤

[@Joseph-wf4qg]

🎵🎙🎷🥁🎸📻🎶 🪄✨️🎩 NPR 🐰 🫙🍯

[@Joseph-wf4qg]

🎹🎹🎹🎹🎹🎹🎹

[@phil6298]

NPR music is the Netflix originals of music

[@spiolet]

this wins all comments.

[@partyboy3059]

some geniuses back there in the netflix originals offices

[@fegit9413]

i fully agree phil, just as useless and depressing

[@darryljohnson8516]

I can't tell if that's a complement or an insult or both. There are some amazing Netflix originals (House of Cards, Bojack Horseman, Stranger Things) but there is also a lot of shit (that Bill Nye show.)

[@DefenestrateYourself]

@@fegit9413 Nah, that's just you and lackluster life. Work on that, friendo!

[@AmariSali]

Their albums should solely be live albums, no studio recordings.

[@wrongangle4881]

Amari Sali they are like the Grateful Dead of soul and R&B

[@j.riffney7939]

Yassssssss

[@denaenaeee]

Amari Allah yep

[@j.r.9104]

Amen!

[@brittanyr821]

Yeah I agree. I tried listening to the album's but find I keep returning to live shows.

[@eclecticswag2544]

CarefreeBlackGirlMagic without any apologies...

[@towhatdegree]

You should check out the video she did with stylelikeu

[@eclecticswag2544]

Actually I saw that. That is the main reason I opened this video when it popped up in my notifications. I had no idea the magic I would witness. Thanks

[@towhatdegree]

SonniAli McMichael lol same

[@birdi3beez]

Damn it feels good to be black and to be woman

[@candii10]

ovo196 ... this comment plus Sunday afternoon go together so well

[@Aqueenswisdom]

2024 and I’m still here for this gem💕

[@ericreynolds2952]

The last song is one of the most beautiful musical conversations I've ever heard. So much chemistry here.

[@ck675]

Eric Reynolds I legitimately bawled. I've never had a piece of music touch me like Rollercoasters did. I am still in shock at what just happened...

[@RaymondPerezx]

Eric Reynolds yes

[@mpetro1916]

Yo THIS is hip hop. She was born to be an MC

[@TC-ls2cm]

Hey 👋🏿 to the person up late night watching this with a BIG SMILE on your face!! Peace and Love ❤

[@Dejcandoanyting123]

🌟Tye C Whoa... merci 💫⭐

[@iina1172]

That's me! It's 3 am and I totally fell in love with them.

[@nickkadolph259]

Tye C It's 4:23 AM and I am rolling back into smiles from tears. Peace to you!

[@bof6424]

It's 12:23 pm here

[@xebio6]

Tye C you nailed it... 2:36am... peace and love to you too

[@carmendeannacosmetics1260]

There is something so special about this group. It never fails to bring me to tears, 5 years later. Simply beautiful

[@lanacology]

Watching it rn balling my eyes out🥺

[@natashahaywood8205]

Yes you said it exactly 😢❤

[@sirzebra]

It's the whole New Orleans vibe distilled in a single performance, maybe even all of your amazing black culture in a way, the one that made the US shine all around the world, and the one that makes it seems like this country still has a bright future despite all of it's paradoxes and terrible deeds. Tiny desk itself is a breath of fresh air, but this set right here is the posterchild of why it was invented, and why it's still such an institution years later. From France, with love towards anyone that knows how much music means in our short drifting voyage on this lonely planet =)

[@SneakyCheeseThief]

These folks are a Jazz / spoken word / motivation speaking / hip-hop / “soulful Disney” / performance art masterpiece machine. It’s so reassuring to see there’s this much creativity left in the universe.

[@gabbishleegifted4752]

Thdxbll3 soulful Disney is such a good description. All the characteristics they bring out continuously

[@SneakyCheeseThief]

GabbishLee Gifted - can’t take credit for that one. Pretty sure I read them describe their art that way somewhere. Cheers!

[@tarjeik7162]

Thdxbll3 but shouldn't we save a little creativity to create the 2.0 H-bomb????!

[@jackiestringfellow805]

AMEN! CHILLS

[@joelbennett5374]

With incredible rythym and timing

[@DSM357]

I ain't never heard of of tank and the bangas, but my God Rollercoasters, I was not ready..... Shit made me cry how deep I felt this in my soul. Thank you NPR for introducing me to Tank And the Bangas

[@SHEABUDDHA]

Anthony Mitchell felt emotional too. Too ill!

[@Swollen_Goat]

Was a bit (very) skeptical at first, and upon reading this comment I was like I dont get it. And then after a couple minutes of listening I felt the same. Shit hit me and I was like damn that was nice.

[@DSM357]

Zach Hamilton bruh I was the same way but I skipped the first and when that hit I had to rewind and listen to the whole thing

[@seauxsouthern504]

Neither did I, and i'm from New Orleans! As soon as I heard them say that hula hoop line, I was like OK DATS MY PPL I KNOW OUR ACCENT ANYWHERE! LOL This makes me so happy!!

[@Jessegalko]

Same. I want more !

[@amygodward4472]

Anyone else feel like Tank is just like a real life Disney princess? I feel like I've been taken on an adventure and experienced all of the wonders and adversities at her side...

[@talesfromtarasa7846]

The princess from The Princess and the Frog has a very similar name, and is also from New Orleans. But I agree with you, she probably be having birds land on her hand as she walks through the park and stuff. She's glorious.

[@TheTransitmtl]

BGM is such a cool and positive movement.

[@naturally4realmocasio232]

OMG Yesss

[@denaraptis3716]

Exactly! I was thinking the same. Her whole vibe is just awesome...so animated and every emotion comes through. First time seeing this. I am blown away!

[@SalahZhouri]

I share the same feeling, Man this music is our of this world.

[@goodluckokereke]

We just can't thank NPR enough for making us discover these amazing people.

[@joseantoniomoraisezquerra1358]

Alguien sabe si ese sitio es visitable?

[@shelleyspeakstruth8475]

Agreed

[@MrNostars]

That last song had me catching feelings and getting emotional! Beautiful performance.

[@sendjudah1st]

thebardfromspace me too! Smh

[@keithkelly4106]

Yea a thug had to get up from his desk and wipe his eyes real quick. My co-worker asked if I was alright, I was like "yea bruh...Allergies"

[@laurencameron3150]

Keith Kelly LMFAO!!! Really!?

[@LGnLA]

+Keith Kelly LOL @ allergies, good one!!!

[@angelcgates]

I have watched this at least 5678 times. so good.

[@MrDjhellrell415]

me to

[@LloydGatson]

Angelique Gates just commenting so you come back and watch 5679 times

[@curious17589]

The sista with that cute ponytail has one of the most dynamically multi-layered voices I've ever heard!!!

[@ejb9171]

Mariah B u

[@auburnboi09]

It’s also crazy how much Jelly compliments her voice and vice-versa. Near perfect sync.

[@Pie2020diyStudiollc]

Your backup singer is the 🐐.....PERIOD

[@SheDreams]

She is the best! Energetic. Creative a whole vibe!

[@1WEareBUFO1]

All I see is goats in fancy shirts

[@abundancesunflower1971]

That’s A Fact!

[@ck675]

'Rollercoasters' is an achievement for humanity as a whole. My. God.

[@evilbeauty1021]

ck675 THIS! YES! The best translation I've heard yet!

[@brandonallen5008]

ck675 Couldn't have said it better! Exactly right!

[@JAEFORDbeats]

indeed!

[@lebohangmohlaloha3962]

A million likes to that

[@750count]

Yes......it tells everybody's story

[@keithkelly4106]

I was watching this video at work like "damnn, they're dope I wanna see them live!" ...then that last song got me, couldn't grab no shoes or nothin Jesus! 😭😭

[@samuelhinshelwoodjr]

lmao!

[@Darkdemonoflite]

rofl!!!!

[@bdhippie]

c'mon down to nola ...

[@xcusemeitsjmisses]

Keith Kelly 😭😭😂😂😂😂

[@LisaSapien]

rollercoaster

[@powerpc127]

I goddamn love this. The instrumentals alone would already be absolutely killer, but then you add the mix of storytelling, comedy, rap, and absolutely gorgeous singing on top of that and it's just flooring. I simply cannot get enough of this.

[@xristinamilly]

Still here in 2024

[@sfrances09]

I am doubled over at work as if I've just had a spiritual experience #blackgirlmagic in its purest form

[@ouch110]

Same, I just found them and wow, it's too much. Amazing. Especially the tiny wooden spoon instruments.

[@thatbmorechickfoodiecookin500]

"I WOULD'VE BEEN YOUR MEATS, YOUR GREENS, YOUR PEAS, YOUR MILK." Not only is the lyrical flow & SPOKEN WORD ON POINT and SO RELEVANT but T's delivery is so clever and her voice affects you deep down; she's got soulful old school "we in church" pipes. JELLY KNOWS SHE ROCKS TOO. So much soul, so whimsical, so authentic; Tank & The Bangas is: AN AESTHETIC.

[@audreyxx8311]

the way jelly looks at T during rollercoaster... both their emotions are insanely moving

[@trueviolinist]

🙌🏾🙌🏾🙌🏾🙌🏾🙌🏾

[@sascharouillon9785]

Nicely put.

[@nicholaswhitmire6465]

She's a treasure

[@BavardRahdar]

I don't think I have ever heard anything quite like this and I love it

[@houdabenbrahim4577]

Bavard Rahdar me tooo i think this gonna be my next top 5 songs ..i'm in looooove ♡♡♡

[@fireyflower6643]

They are unique & original - I LOVE it

[@saml3134]

PLEASE have them back

[@sashafierce1011]

I appreciate that the music never stopped. The entire band is so talented and every single transition was flawless

[@poldyon]

Glad you pointed about the smooth transition. This performance sounds like the perfect background music of a perfect day. From waking up on a warm sunshine at the beginning of Boxes and Squares, a lively lunch with your loved ones somewhere in the middle of Quick, seeing a qlorius sunset at the start of Rollercoasters, and finally slowly drifting to sleep satisfied about the day with Jelly and Tank singing their lullabies at the very end. Ugh, I'm just too happy that I've felt like this again.

[@JoyJakubowski]

Someone once told me that it's impossible to create a new kind of music, new genres, new expressions...that everything has already been created and invented in music. Such a bull***t. Emotion is limitless in its expressiveness. I loved this show. So fresh and intense.

[@spiritjohnson9275]

I love how Tank disassociates at certain parts of ‘rollercoasters’ as if she’s reliving that moment at Jazz land…so pure.

[@Justicefu]

you know the passion is so raw when Jelly starts shedding a tear, they've rehearsed and played this so many times, but this performance was special for them obviously, they made it... and Tank puts in 17000000000% and the raw emotion she's putting in makes Jelly break even though she's heard the story all those times, that's how you know Tanks emotion is real, Jellys is too. It's a beautiful thing.

[@alexisj7025]

Yesssss, THAT is it!! I can feel her remembering! Whew!!! It’s ethereal!

[@SmokeTherapy420]

I ritually come back here as if I’ve never seen this video 15,000 times before

[@ellataylor9413]

their stage presence is incredible.

[@noova02]

Absolutely. This video always puts me in a good mood no matter what I've just been through

[@TomJohnSmith]

the range of emotions I felt from this is ridiculous. That last piece sent me over the edge. good gracious.

[@wb9009]

The white guy playing the flute could not stop smiling when the female singers where going off @2:45 XD I love it haha the vibes are real with this band I definitely fuck with their energy....will research into them for sure.

[@blackdollfin6573]

You could just tell they were all having fun but homeboy was really feeling it. My favorite is @ 3:25 just look at him in the background. Amazing band!!!

[@tiatia8236]

I LOVE watching people enjoy music. Especially when they're the performers

[@PlozProd]

In my personal top 3 tiny desk concerts I've ever watched. From not knowing who they are to my jaw on the floor pressing replay nonstop. Incredible talent.

[@rodox_sk8]

What the other two?

[@PlozProd]

​@@rodox_sk8 for my personal taste, just out of the ones i've listened to so far. I'd say JID and Tobe Nwigwe are the other two. No specific order.

[@wishingwell_333]

​@@PlozProdi haven't even seen tobes found momints awhile ago by chance the guy is amazing as a musician

[@knlouis173]

I live in NOLA. I've seen this group perform twice now (Jazz Fest & FQ Fest) all I could think while I watched this was how proud I am of them! It's so inspiring. Keep up the great and unique work!! And just so everyone knows a Tank has those vocals!!!

[@AChristineG]

Right? I've been watching them for a while, since I live in NOLA and I'm SO happy to see them make it. No one deserves it more!

[@cassaleelee]

Me too, and they've blown me away, and I've seen a lot of different bands and types of music over the years. They are even, much, much better in full force live on stage!

[@lilrosspv]

"I want to give them my money," is all I could think while watching this......

[@choklitandmuzik]

same

[@saravdcd]

lilrosspv lolol right

[@mtgsk5180]

lilrosspv read this while listening to "gotta make my money real quick real quick" 😂😂👌👌

[@ajf098]

This needs to be a full Broadway production.

[@antonioevans4636]

ANNIE STORMBORN right 😍😍😍

[@bamb113r]

yes

[@angeliamullins372]

Absolutely!!!

[@Counterbo]

PERIOD

[@chanelgraham4463]

End O’ Story! 😍

[@xlMariposa]

I'm still crying over Rollercoasters and it becomes more and more relatable every single year

[@thespiffytrunk1914]

I had to sign in just to comment on this. I'm not familiar with this group but boy am I glad I clicked. This is one of the most "complete" bands I've ever seen. And her homegirl Jelly is about to give Busta Rhymes' hypeman, Spliff, a run for his money as the greatest hype woman in the business. LOL.

[@datkedz4167]

The Spiffy Trunk mann they need to let them host bet awards it would be too lit

[@interstellish]

This is one of the best bands that I have ever come across in my entire life. The whole group just oozes charisma. Impossible not to appreciate, even if you don't really love it.

[@kimberleyjackson-brown8037]

That guy playing the FLUTE is KILLIN IT!!!!

[@mcdonoghrahloh459]

Kimberley Jackson-Brown You're sad

[@HacksawJimThuggin]

@@mcdonoghrahloh459 she meant that he is really good!! 😂

[@mcdonoghrahloh459]

Leroy Walker Compared to.....?For New Orleans he's average!

[@dannydan4634]

McDonogh Rahloh Lol you such a bitch, they’re not here so we talkin bout this flute player nigga

[@mcdonoghrahloh459]

Danny Dan I got yo ni€€a I'm my pant maggot!

[@shainamausse6829]

For me, the best NPR TINY desk 😊

[@jjque8900]

Check out Pak Anderson and The Free Nationals. It's epic!

[@greatlakegirl3033]

Jellies vocals alone on rollacoasters make me cry she is amazing.

[@mGsr-pr6hh]

name fits her too

[@andrewright1350]

I've seen this video too many times to count (and had a chance to see them live this year) but Jelly's vocal diversity is a treasure!

[@MissSunflower242]

shout out to Chance for shoutin out to Tank during his Tiny Desk. would've never known about this magic

[@jshawd40]

Lol, no doubt. That is the exact reason that I came here... I have not been moved by music in long time... this is refreshing. If they tour anywhere near me it's not even a question..

[@williamcory4689]

Would love to see them touring with the roots.

[@TheStranger513]

William Cory You just did something there.

[@NoWayNoHow999]

The best Tiny Desk… hands down!!!!! I have watched it over and over and over again!

[@pavelk7078]

I'm a Russian guy and don't understand fast English speech, but the last song was so emotional, that made my eyes to water

[@stephanielittle4643]

That's lovely. Would you like me to write out what she's saying during the last song so you can read it and figure out what is being said?

[@puffheadedvegan]

@@juansiresborinilson6114 really?? Omg!

[@cappy3311]

@@stephanielittle4643 please 🙏.

[@KourtneyFranke]

Listen to the song where they want to then you understand the words if they’re saying as well as if you watch it, you really can view the emotion that they’re singing so sit back play it over and over again and relax it’s a different experience every time you see it 11:15

[@lazarddiankson1400]

I get you there Pavel! That's the power of music 🎶 🎵 🙌 ❤️ 😍

[@ferrerorochai7222]

I feel like everybody needs a Jelly in their life

[@garybuster8624]

Rochai say-hey which one is jelly

[@ferrerorochai7222]

Gary Buster the lady on the left with the white hat

[@theOstenHugo]

Rochai say-hey BEST COMMENT ON THIS VIDEO AND THE REALEST!!! 😜 Currently taking applications for those interested in the position of "Jelly"...we'll call you...Ranch!! 🤣😂🤣😂🤣

[@lawrencefloyd9373]

I know I could use one in my life. LOL!

[@judahamen-ra940]

Jelly should def have a solo project at some point.

[@samw292002]

Tank and Jelly together are a dream. So much chemistry. Jelly just oozes charisma. And that voice...I know she’s just background but I hope they never lose her. Tank is pretty perfect, but Jelly adds just the right amount of fun to the group. They have this sort of call and response thing going on that I just love. And she’s gorgeous.

[@latenightcashews]

Sam W exactly their chemistry is nothing short of a spectacle to witness

[@KayKayGJ]

Sam W yesssssss

[@arjenvreeken1593]

Maybe you would wanna qualify that as a sort of twinsister or mirrorrole... One needs the other, like in life. They are very complementary to eachother, as the band is to the singers and vice versa. That chemistry makes it what is... a unique sensation!

[@skillzferguson]

Sam W #STAMP

[@iwannaseeit1979]

Floetry vibes

[@lilly_b.elllzzz]

Came to listen to this today and it still hits the same.❤

[@bentucker2301]

This blurs the lines between music performance poetry art expression emotion and a whole lot of other things that I cant even describe. Thank you for sharing this.

[@EdiCallier]

Watching stuff like this reminds me of why I first fell in love with the art of music

[@katelynnsullivan6424]

A journey I didn’t know I was going on and I will never regret taking

[@bellesbooks7782]

Gotta be my 100th time here. Best tiny desk ever, no contest. Tank and the Bangas give the finest live performances of any artist alive. Wishing them love and prosperity

[@sydneytoon7220]

the energy. the creativity. the charisma. the stories. i’m obsessed.

[@KarenJewels]

My girl's vocals are so versatile and animated!

[@yana-perrault]

That last song WRECKED me. Absolutely untouchable - best Tiny Desk YET!!

[@JacobCDando]

Grown Man 42 => GURL I cry every damn time I watch this

[@monicaw.3384]

Man! Why did I watch this at work?!?! Fighting back tears.

[@OGUncleLukeFN]

boo freaking HOOED at work. about to do it again right now smh

[@courtlynheard2117]

@@monicaw.3384 man this was me today

[@Char4Him]

Yesss all the feels

[@GenevaAStark]

Another example of the creative and amazing talent in New Orleans. I was born and raised in New Orleans, I watched the video with great pride and admiration.

[@lglp3]

Yeah I'm beginning to suspect that everything amazing comes from New Orleans, kzbin.info/www/bejne/iICVZHirjJZ2p6s like this guy right here

[@asdwhite1]

Geneva A. Stark same !! Just proud

[@jondough7777777]

Geneva A. Stark shout out 504 from da 318

[@mcdonoghrahloh459]

jondough7777777 Yeah ya right homie!

[@zhouli4625]

I was in New Orleans for 1 month... That was one of the best experiences in my life. There is something about NOLA that makes it extremely special and beautiful. And then there’s Doreen... I just love love love NOLA.

[@smile2day162]

Who are these QUEENS??? THEY ARE F*CKING AMAZING!!!!!!!!!!

[@ArdalanHamann]

They are more than musicians they are artists painting the musical consciousness of the world

[@BigDaddyWes]

Ardalan Parian Pirafteh That's what a true musician does.

[@ArdalanHamann]

and a true musician is an artist :)

[@philfichtinger3009]

i keep coming back to this performance over and over, and have been coming back for seven years now. it is so enlightening, so pure, so witty. the soundscapes so beautifully crafted, everyone so in tune and in vibe with each other. in my book, you guys are one in a million. thanks for sharing that gift of yours with all of us.

[@Lu-dm7rn]

Just saw a bit of this vid on tumblr and came running like crazy for the full version and maaan... my ears never felt so great!!! Love these guys!!!

[@Neeshpeesh123]

Luu Cheng same lol

[@alexis-cd8jl]

Luu Cheng sameeee

[@elliottcurry]

Man, on the Butterfly song when Jelly was sarenading "fly, fly, fly .... ohhh ohhh" SHE MURDERED THE LOW REGISTER. What excellent range. Well done. Man,I love yall.

[@judination1]

She really did!

[@lizzybelle2]

Yes she did👏🏽👏🏽

[@noova02]

Yesss!!

[@Stephon723]

Yeeeeeah... 16:04 😍 16:11 😮 who's THAT? Yeeeeeah she did it

[@abundantsunflower1107]

She killed it!

[@eliat158]

I usually hate the phrase "gives me life" but it is so appropriate for this performance! I'm in love.

[@brianperez4538]

Rollercoaster was the first song to ever make me cry genuine tears and till this day I come back and listen to this and still get very emotional...love this song with a passion

[@KB-mk9lv]

I cant count the times i have listened to it. If I listen through, I go through many phases of reality.

[@chrislyn1868]

i honesty regret watching this because now im addicted. goddamit.

[@tonytony1053]

me too

[@33fatface]

Chris Lyn I just bit the apple too 😏

[@Sahel_Alum]

Where are you from Chris?

[@HaleyRymel]

The longer I watched, the more I fell in love with this band. Amazing.

[@ericnatarus6915]

What upsets me the most about this video, is knowing some people haven't seen it yet.

[@RC-iq2hh]

Right

[@TheShauNanigans]

What upsets me the most is that so many people probably watched and then never explored the band again. They have at least 2 new albums since this recording. They are one of the best live shows I have ever seen. I want them to be noticed for the amazingly talented people that they are, but then again, I'm selfish. Because once that happens fewer people will be able to experience how phenomenally epic a live Tank and the Bangas show is. Once an artist gets noticed, the average person can't afford it anymore. Case in point, Lizzo.

[@YannDyangu]

THIS has to be one of the best IF NOT THE BEST Tiny Desk EVER!!!!! Just out of this world! After 5 years, I still come back to this. ABSOLUTELY AMAZING.

[@clif5926]

If Tank and the Bangas would collab with Noname I think I'd die, and live, and die again.

[@Alexa-ri3re]

YESSS!!! I totally feel this! NoName outdid herself at her NPR special. That collab would be fireee

[@MarcusL1995]

Or Jill Scott

[@lonelywhale5919]

what an amazing idea

[@jeonkayla2379]

Screw dying. I’d combust.

[@TeddyVerseti1]

There isn't enough days in a lifetime to listen to or watch that enough times to understand that entire performance.

[@ShantelleKing]

This will FOREVER be one of my fav Tiny Desk Sessions. WOW!!! 🤎🤎🤎

[@Krfran14]

Same.. Tingles

[@LTDudzek]

nah

[@davidrtd1863]

The guy with the flute though 🤣😂 the dancing was gold .

[@eyeseeme3]

Love it 😂❤️

[@taneishabedenfield4236]

Always!! He stay on point...

[@mcdonoghrahloh459]

Poor Black women!

[@Blaisefiyah]

Albert is awesome

[@mcdonoghrahloh459]

jahmod cook Gayser?

[@timb350]

Have seen thousands of shows...and had the enormous pleasure of seeing Tank & the Banga's only once...but that 'once' was easily one the best shows I have ever seen.

[@lilyfw611]

And she has such a precious combination of a child's amazement at the world, and the maturity and beauty of someone experienced in life...

[@whorrorstories4485]

This!

[@noova02]

Well said

[@Linds1.9.0.8.]

This part!

[@davionhambrick8627]

👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾 well said!

[@thedrawingmuffins]

She’s a genius.

[@quadrophoebia-1385]

This woman deserves a place in the history of r&b, hip-hop, spoken word and pure general talent i’m so obsessed with this performance it’s crazy

[@quadrophoebia-1385]

i’m back

[@quadrophoebia-1385]

guess whose back

[@quadrophoebia-1385]

back again

[@powell5776]

you are so so right I'm obsesed too with them, theey are just so talented...

[@blakberi]

This is the thing about live performances - you can have a transcendent experience that is never to be repeated (unless it happens to be recorded of course) an experience that is not always possible merely with a studio recording. I wish I could have been in that room on that day. Sublime 19:55 is my favorite moment and you can see the way the flute player wobbles his head that he is enjoying the fuck out of this groove, the keyboard player at the back gives props to the spontaneous harmony... this is one of those rare moments that never repeat.

[@latenightcashews]

Blakberi yes, yes, yes, i always hold some room for the chance to be present with people creating something just for the moment

[@blakberi]

Amanda Yeo I wish I had more thumbs to put up

[@SirFurd]

Thought before watching this for what feels like the 100th time, "It's been a while, I can probably watch this and not cry now." 11 Minutes in: 😭 They are SO good

[@flyingcheff]

These women AND these men are beautiful! What contagious love and passion! LOVE the flute!

[@keltonday371]

Part of the power this group has is the fact that they are probably enjoying this more than the audience. It's almost as if nobody is watching at all. The level of comfortable commitment to every note is something almost mythical. Something I'm lucky to experience here. Thank you tiny desk, forever and always!

[@Thaqueenb3221]

I scrolled past this so many times. I guess my spirit knew I needed to stop today. OMG IM IN LOVE

[@KevinGloverpost24]

Veronda Blue agreed for months I just kept scrolling by 🤦🏽‍♂️

[@SB-jt1ur]

@@KevinGloverpost24 me tooo... but God's grace.. my God, this is so special!

[@michelecherek5392]

I've watched this a GAZILLION times! And NOT ONCE has it ended with a dry eye!! THANK YOU!!💖🎶💖🎶💖🎶💖 12-31-2023

[@katecassidy9357]

Me the first time I watched this: :30 Huh. This is odd. 1:00 OK I really don’t get it. 1:30 Actually it’s kind of fun. 2:00 This is a beautiful work of art and these people are legitimate geniuses.

[@calebritchie1069]

Kathleen Cassidy for real tho. The longer you sit with their music, the better it feels.

[@darrylmartin2987]

And traditional radio wants the piece to pull in the audience in the first 5 seconds........ are we missing out, or are we missing out???????? 😗😏😲🧐

[@Trollinfrl]

Kathleen Cassidy LITERALLY😭like I was like wth but then I was like damn, I like it tho💀

[@RReid-xc8eg]

This PRECISELY captures my experience!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Thank you, I no longer need to try to articulate it.

[@DBat-sp1tp]

Kathleen Cassidy you about summed it up for me. I think we’re all thirsting for real creativity in music.

[@raymundorocha7159]

I don’t know how many times I’ve cried to ¨rollercoasters¨. It always helps me when most needed. Just extraordinary.

[@keylierobinson6612]

same here ‼️😍😩

[@unclebudget7411]

Same

[@dailaholder7326]

same dude same, just know other people out here feeling the same feelings

[@commandrogyne]

their vocal control is so impressive, the lady on the right has like 5 separate voices she can flawlessly slip into and out of literally from one note to the next, its absolutely fantastic! she has such a fantastic stage presence too, you can tell she's having a great and genuinely loves the music shes performing. the rhythm and flow of this whole band is just so fan to watch, they're all so talented and work so well together. absolutely one of my favorite tiny desk performances, i come back to it all the time!

[@NHDGamer]

It’s been 4 or 5 years since I’ve last listened to this and ‘rollercoasters’ had such a different effect on me now that I’m a little older. Really fascinating how the same track can make me feel new emotions based on my own life experience.