The Breakfast Club - Best Of 2024 Full Interview: Tank Talks 'R&B MONEY THE VAULT,' Upcoming Tour, Old Vs New R&B, TGT, Flavor Flav, Jamie Foxx + More

Release Date: December 24, 2024
Host: DJ Envy and Charlamagne Tha God
Guest: Tank

Introduction

On this special "Best Of 2024" episode of The Breakfast Club, hosts DJ Envy and Charlamagne Tha God sit down with renowned R&B artist Tank for an in-depth conversation. The interview delves into Tank's latest projects, his perspectives on the evolving R&B landscape, and his experiences collaborating with industry legends like Flavor Flav and Jamie Foxx.

R&B Evolution: Old Vs New

A significant portion of the discussion centers around the transformation of R&B music over the years. Tank expresses his admiration for the emotional depth of 90s and early 2000s R&B, highlighting the genre's ability to convey genuine feelings and vulnerability.

Tank [04:39]: "It's the feeling of it is what's back people want to. And what's crazy is that of course I give credit to the women for keeping R&B in the mainstream conversation."

He critiques the modern shift towards materialism in R&B, where themes often revolve around money, cars, and superficial relationships, moving away from the soulful expressions of love and vulnerability.

Tank [07:41]: "But we moved into this, you know, we moved into this kind of, you know, simp and all of these things. When it comes to taking care of women or expressing love, I just think that men are just. They've been programmed to not be vulnerable."

Tank emphasizes the importance of returning to the roots of R&B, where music was a medium for deep emotional connection rather than displaying wealth or status.

Tank [11:29]: "I watched my older uncles and everybody. I still follow their model. And my job, I'm responsible for maintaining the line to where we treasure and we cater and we take care of our women."

Tank's Music and 'R&B MONEY THE VAULT'

Tank discusses his latest project, "'R&B MONEY THE VAULT'," highlighting its significance in his career as his fastest-charting record to date. He explains the intentional shift towards a more upbeat tempo to resonate with contemporary audiences while retaining the emotional essence of R&B.

Tank [16:12]: "This is calculated. This is on purpose. I needed the right one."

He speaks about the creative process behind the album, including collaborations with producers and artists who share his vision for authentic R&B music.

Tank [23:22]: "People love money. People love the idea that something makes money that is successful and that is just attractive to people. The word money, right? You can't get past it."

Personal Stories and Experiences

During the interview, Tank shares personal anecdotes that shed light on his journey in the music industry. He recounts hosting strip clubs and the interactions with patrons who dance to his music, emphasizing the reciprocal relationship between artists and their audience.

Tank [33:22]: "You know what? I'm saying. And so when they dance to my music, then I have to reward them. That makes sense, you know what I'm saying? I have to take care of them for that."

Tank also touches upon the challenges of maintaining authenticity in an industry driven by trends and the importance of staying true to one's artistic vision.

Tank [36:02]: "You know, it's starting a war, but you're like, you know what? I'll fight that battle when I get home."

Upcoming Projects and Collaborations

Looking ahead, Tank reveals plans for an upcoming tour centered around his "R&B MONEY" brand. He expresses excitement about aligning with fellow artists like Joe and potentially reuniting with classic R&B groups such as TGT (Tyrese, Ginuwine, and Tank himself).

Tank [39:40]: "Shit really happens. Listen, play some of them Kerry Hilson records. Like, things happen."

He also shares experiences collaborating with industry veterans like Flavor Flav and Jamie Foxx, highlighting the mutual respect and creativity that drive these partnerships.

Tank [42:38]: "We [are] at a great place where I think now we all. Everybody collectively sees the value in what we are, in what we created."

Conclusion

Tank's interview on The Breakfast Club offers a compelling look into his commitment to preserving the soul of R&B music amidst its contemporary evolution. His dedication to authentic storytelling, emotional expression, and meaningful collaborations underscores his role as a pivotal figure in the genre. As he gears up for his "R&B MONEY THE VAULT" tour and continues to influence the next generation of artists, Tank remains steadfast in his mission to cherish and elevate the essence of R&B.

Tank [45:25]: "Love is a choice. I have to decide how I express that choice. And we just call it love."

Notable Quotes:

• Tank [07:41]: "But we moved into this, you know, we moved into this kind of, you know, simp and all of these things. When it comes to taking care of women or expressing love, I just think that men are just. They've been programmed to not be vulnerable."

• Tank [23:22]: "People love money. People love the idea that something makes money that is successful and that is just attractive to people. The word money, right? You can't get past it."

• Tank [45:25]: "Love is a choice. I have to decide how I express that choice. And we just call it love."

This comprehensive conversation provides valuable insights for R&B enthusiasts and newcomers alike, highlighting Tank's influential role in shaping the genre's future while honoring its rich legacy.