Larry Banks facts for kids

Larry Banks, born Lawrence H. Banks (October 3, 1931 – February 26, 1992), was an American singer. He was also a talented songwriter and music producer. He was best known for his Rhythm and Blues (R&B) and soul music.

Larry Banks' Life and Music

Larry Banks grew up in the Flatbush area of Brooklyn, New York City. His father, Arthur Banks, was also a singer. Arthur sang religious and classical music. He was part of a barbershop quartet called the Dunbar Barbershop Quartet.

Serving His Country

In the early 1950s, Larry Banks joined the US Marine Corps. He served in the Korean War. For his bravery, he received a Bronze Star Medal. After his service, he returned home in 1953.

Starting a Music Group

In 1953, Banks formed a singing group called The Schemers. This group soon broke up. In 1954, he started a new group, The Four Fellows. The members were Larry Banks (baritone), David Jones, Jimmy McGowan, and Teddy Williams. Larry Banks wrote and arranged many of their songs.

The Four Fellows began performing in New York clubs. They also appeared on local TV shows. Their first recordings were with the Derby label. Later, they moved to the Glory label.

Their First Big Hit

In 1955, The Four Fellows released "Soldier Boy." This song was written by David Jones. It became a big hit, reaching number 4 on the national Billboard R&B charts. The group performed with famous acts like The Moonglows and Bo Diddley. They also appeared in shows organized by well-known DJs. However, their later songs were not as successful.

Working with Bessie Banks

Larry Banks later left The Four Fellows. He started working with his wife, Bessie Banks. In 1957, he sang backup for her on her song "You're Still in My Heart." They later separated and divorced in the early 1960s.

In 1961, Banks and his brother-in-law, Tony May, started a music publishing company called Kev-Ton. In 1962, Bessie Banks recorded a demo of a song called "Go Now." Larry Banks wrote this song with his friend Milton Bennett.

Famous producers Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller heard the demo. They re-recorded the song and released it in 1964. Later, an English band called The Moody Blues recorded "Go Now." Their version became an international hit. This song helped launch The Moody Blues' career.

Solo Work and Producing

Larry Banks also recorded music under his own name in the 1960s. His first solo song was "Will You Wait." He also wrote and produced songs for other singers and groups. These included Kenny Carter, The Cavaliers, and The Exciters.

He worked with a group called The Pleasures. This group was led by Joan Bates. Larry later married Joan, who also recorded solo as Jaibi. Larry and Jaibi recorded music together as "Lawrence and Jaibi." Many of his recordings were for GWP Productions, released through the RCA label.

In 1979, Larry Banks performed with The Four Fellows again. This was at a show in New Jersey. He continued to record and produce music throughout the 1970s and 1980s.

Later Life and Legacy

Larry Banks passed away in 1992 at the age of 60. He was buried at the Calverton National Cemetery in Long Island.

In 1998, he was honored for his music. He was inducted into the United in Group Harmony Association's Hall of Fame. This was as a member of The Four Fellows.

Larry Banks' music was loved by many, including English music historian Dave Godin. In 2007, a collection of Banks' songs and productions was released. It was called Larry Banks' Soul Family Album.