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8 Tank And The Bangas Songs To Add To Your Playlist If You're Feeling "DM Pretty"
In 2019, Grammy-nominated Tank and the Bangas released their second live album, Live Vibes 2 (Live). On this album, Tank begins her song “DM Pretty,” with a spoken word poem that discusses the problem of being seen as beautiful only on social media or being told about it only through secrecy. Early this year, her infamous riff of “this boy be in my DM say I’m pretty,” took TikTok by storm and became the new audio clip worth putting on any video of a beautiful girl’s page.
The poem and clip conclude with Tank stating that although the compliment was appreciated, it was unnecessary, because “she already knew that.” Her beauty is not and would not be defined by someone’s late-night 2 a.m. discovery.
Tank and the Bangas - Full Set | Best of the Beat 2020New Orleans favorite Tank and the Bangas deliver a stellar set for OffBeat Magazine's 2020 Best of the Beat Awards. The band ...
Now, many wonder who this trailblazer is, igniting herself and others in a relentless form of self-love and setting the bar for those who shower her in misguided affection. To understand who Tank truly is, it’s time to get out of her DMs and into her discography.
Here are the top 8 Tank and the Bangas songs that will keep you out of her DMs, unless it is to state that her music should have been found years ago.
1. "To Be Real" (feat. Hasizzle, Keedy Black & Big Choo)
In 2020, during the height of the pandemic, Tank and the Bangas had me by the throat when they released the EP Friend Goals. On this EP was the track “To Be Real,” a song that from the moment it begins will have you bobbing from side to side, only to get up and shake your ass a minute later. Her lyrics tell of a house party, her music makes you feel like you’re having one in New Orleans, Louisiana. By the time the song ends, you will be out of breath and happy for the dance break.
2. "Spaceships"
“Money. Look at all the money. Look at the money, money fallin’’ from the sky.”
This song is just plain fun, as it should be given its theme. This song is like a pat on the back when one understands they have finally accomplished their goal of reaching the charts. Tank and her crew choose to simply throw their money up and enjoy their riches, rediscovering themselves back home, where it all began, rather than lavishly spending it and wasting it on expensive items and destinations. Though, she does consider the idea of pointlessly wasting it all. Thanks to Mark Batson's incredible beat, the children's catchy chorus, and the pure delight of oneself, this song will be in your head for days.
3. "Boxes and Squares"
One thing about Tank is that she is extremely aware of her value; in fact, she is occasionally forced to remind her suitor when he forgets. In this song, she takes the time to tell her ex all of the wonderful things she could have been for him. She is no longer interested in the nothingness he can offer, however, as a result of his constant falsehoods, jokes, closed-off demeanor, and immature desires. He simply offers empty boxes and loops of never-ending mediocrity, while she embodies everything that healthy cultivation entails. Tank makes it abundantly clear, she's the bar.
4. "Dope Girl Magic"
It's crazy how simple things may seem when you're really good at them. Tank tells her audience that being this dope is almost too simple as she slickly follows along with the music. She may grow a little tired of it all because it is so simple. Yet, that doesn't stop her from being boastful and bragging about how talented she and her bangas are. She is limitless. She is extraordinary, and she is only beginning. Her group is distinct in its excellence, and she knows it. Some might be great, but their type of great is so different that it's unattainable by others.
5. "No ID"
What a groovy song, and an even better message. "No ID" sends the crystal-clear message to any would-be suitor: I'm not interested. Tank compares her admirer to someone who thinks she is so simple-minded that she will just fall for his old tactics with the help of some clever tropes. But she has dealt with men who seem to want her without truly working for it before, and she is too busy now to deal with them. Particularly when she is so familiar with the game's outcome. He needs to demonstrate his desire for her more clearly than he has, and he most definitely needs to provide proper ID.
6. "Heavy"
What a fantastic soulful track to accompany a fantastic soulful album. Tank and the Bangas is excellent because she feels confident in her abilities and desire. She knows exactly what she wants; in this case, she wants everything to hit her heavily. She desires an almost crushing pressure of connection, trust, communication, and love. She has a healthy longing for every moment to be remembered and cherished and a lover who wants the same.
7. "Fluff" (feat. DUCKWRTH)
In "Fluff," Tank and DUCKWRTH watch a young lady who seems to be addicted to fluff. She wants all of the drugs, the parties, the festivals, and everything else that is simply unimportant. In the end, they come to the realization that the girl is looking for something in all of life's joy, but is not successful in finding anything enjoyable. She sings about a woman who can never be satisfied and should be left behind over another 70s groove.
8. "Nice Things"
Tank's only goal in this song is to gain appreciation. She, therefore, implores her lover to show her some kindness. He ought to take her dining out, shopping, to the beach, among other things. She merely wants some nice things, because she is conscious of her value.
Must See: NPR Tiny Desk, Tank and the Bangas (NPR Performers of 2017)
Take a moment to actually be entertained by Tank and the Bangas' Tiny Desk NPR Performance. You will smile nonstop for about 25 minutes thanks to the band's chemistry, showmanship, and musical prowess. Once you're done watching, you'll see why they won performers of the year.
Tank and the Bangas' Pretty Poems EP is available now on all platforms.
Featured image by Vivien Killilea/Getty Images for Universal Music Group for Brands
Taysha Robinson is a writer and high school English teacher, based in metro-Atlanta. A self described philomath, you can find her reading books and articles of every genre, attending educational conferences, and hiking wherever the terrain will allow.
This article is sponsored by Hulu.
UnPrisonedhas returned for its highly anticipated second season, delving deeper into the complex dynamics of the Alexander family.
The series premiere comes a year after its debut season garnered rave reviews from fans and critics and earned record-breaking ratings for Hulu's Onyx Collective brand. UnPrisoned's success can be attributed to its raw, relatable themes and comedic appeal.
Inspired by creator Tracy McMillan's life, the show follows Paige (Kerry Washington), a therapist and single mother whose life takes an unexpected turn when her father, Edwin (Delroy Lindo) --who was released from prison-- moves in with her and her teenage son, Finn (Faly Rakotohavana).
Throughout UnPrisoned's first season, viewers witnessed how Edwin's incarceration deeply affected Paige's life and relationships. In the series, Paige unpacks her trauma through interactions with her inner child and her online followers. Meanwhile, Edwin is overcoming specific struggles with his own past that led to his life of crime, including a dysfunctional upbringing and his mother's arrest. As the Alexanders attempt to reconcile, new challenges arise.
This new season promises to further explore their unconventional family dynamic. Here are several compelling reasons why season two of UnPrisoned should be on everyone's watchlist.
The Alexander Family Life Is Still In Shambles
UnPrisoned's second season resumes where the series left off, with Paige grappling with the fallout from her troubled therapy practice and Edwin navigating life independently after moving out. Meanwhile, Finn faces his own challenges. The teenager is battling anxiety and seeking information about his father—a topic Paige avoids discussing.
The Alexander Family Are Attending Therapy To Resolve Their Underlying Issues
Amid the chaos in their lives, the Alexander family decides to mend their bond by confronting their past traumas. They seek professional help and attend therapy sessions with a “family radical healing coach,” played by John Stamos, a new cast member. This collective effort aims to unravel the complexities of their shared history and strengthen their relationships.
The process of unraveling each character's internal conflicts and their potential impact on future relationships may clash with Paige's textbook therapy approach. While Paige is used to being in the therapist's seat in both career and family, this forces her into the unfamiliar role of a patient during therapy sessions. This shift would compel her to look in the mirror and try a radically different approach.
The Alexander Family Learned A Big Lesson During A Therapy Session
In therapy, the Alexanders are tasked with addressing their individual traumas to salvage their remaining relationships. One of the family therapist’s eccentric suggestions was an exercise involving a family wrestling match. During this session, Paige faces tough questions about her refusal to share information about Finn's father.
While it's unclear whether this scene is reality or fantasy, the image of the family duking it out in the ring certainly makes for hilarious yet compelling television.
Paige Tries Dating Again Following Failed Relationships
Amid her life's chaos, Paige decides to step back into the dating field. However, her many attempts have left her with mixed results. The dating apps have turned out to be a fail, and an outing with her ex Mal (Marque Richardson), who is also her father's parole officer, doesn’t go quite as expected after he brings an unexpected guest – his new girlfriend.
The situation takes an awkward turn when Mal's new partner learns why the former couple split, partly due to Paige's self-sabotage.
UnPrisoned Is A Perfect Balance Of Comedy And Drama
As a dramedy, UnPrisoned takes a comedic approach to its heavy subjects. The show takes us on a ride with Paige's dating misadventures and navigating a friendship with her ex.
Other lighthearted moments include Edwin's attempts at CPR based on online videos and, of course, the antics of the Alexander family's unconventional new healing coach.
The second season of UnPrisoned is now available on Hulu.
UnPrisoned | Season 2 Trailer | Hulu
Feature image courtesy
Summer Travel Guide: 9 Safest Vacation Spots For Black Women
When it comes to planning and choosing our international travels, there’s one question that is bound to come up: “Is it safe for Black women?”
At times, our travel plans can be halted by whether or not our desired destination is safe not only for solo travel but for overall protection as women of color. We want to have fun, go on excursions, taste the food, and let our hair down, so the last thing we need on our minds is navigating microaggressions and worrying about our safety.
According to a report by The Mandala Research Firm, 17% of Black Americans take one or more international trips and travel locally more than six times per year. Even more exciting, 42% of Black Americans said they would spend more in 2020 on travel than in 2019 (pre-Covid), and 50% of Black adults (16% more than the general population) are more likely to travel to locations associated with their ethnic or cultural heritage. All of this goes to show that we’re not afraid to pack our bags and book flights to our heart's desire.
Our passion for travel and exploration highlights a growing desire to connect with a wide range of cultures while discovering new fresh locales. By choosing destinations with positive reputations for safety and belonging, you can enjoy your next adventure with peace of mind. And to help, we’ve provided a list of the best vacation spots to add to our travel bucket list.
1.Havana, Cuba
Known for its vibrant culture and welcoming locals, Havana offers a unique travel experience for you and your girlfriends. Stroll through the historic streets of Old Havana and immerse yourself in the lively music and dance scenes that make this city unforgettable.
2.Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Famous for its Carnival, stunning beaches, and warm hospitality, Rio de Janeiro is a lively and safe city to explore all year long. Don't miss a visit to the iconic Christ the Redeemer statue and the bustling Copacabana Beach for a true taste of Rio's energetic spirit.
3.Belize
With its beautiful beaches, diverse wildlife, and laid-back Caribbean vibe, Belize is a safe and adventurous destination for travelers. Discover the underwater wonders of the Belize Barrier Reef and explore ancient Lamanai Maya Ruins.
4.Paris, France
Who doesn’t have Paris, the city of lights, on their travel list? Renowned for its art, fashion, and iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, Paris offers a blend of romance and safety for travelers. Wander through the charming neighborhoods of Montmartre and Le Marais, explore the Louvre, and indulge in the city's exquisite culinary delights.
5.Lisbon, Portugal
Portugal's capital city, Lisbon, charms visitors with its historic architecture, delicious cuisine, and welcoming atmosphere. Enjoy breathtaking views from São Jorge Castle and savor traditional pastries at the famous Pastéis de Belém bakery.
6.Bali, Indonesia
We’ve all seen the viral photos off the Bali coast and Gates of Heaven, so why not make it a reality? Famous for its lush landscapes, vibrant culture, and serene temples, Bali offers a safe and enriching travel experience in Southeast Asia.
7.Tokyo, Japan
Recently, the value of the Japanese Yen has seen a significant drop, making it the lowest it has been against the dollar since 1986, which also means that there’s no better time than now to make your travel plans to the renowned cultural hub.
8.Accra, Ghana
There’s no FOMO like the kind felt from seeing all the beautiful faces enjoying their holiday at Ghana’s Afrochella Festival, so let this be your sign to start planning the trip now. Often referred to as a welcoming home for the African diaspora, Ghana offers rich cultural experiences and a sense of belonging. Explore the vibrant markets of Accra and visit the historic Cape Coast Castle to connect with the nation's poignant past.
9.Seoul, South Korea
You may be surprised to find this city on the list, but for Black travelers, Seoul is said to be one of the safest and most exciting cities to travel to. There will be plenty to eat, buy, and experience from this city’s rich history and culture.
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Featured image by Klaus Vedfelt/Getty Images