Willie Banks (musician) facts for kids

Willie Banks (born May 11, 1929 – died February 1, 1993) was an American gospel singer and songwriter. He was also the leader of his own music group, The Messengers.

Willie Banks began his music journey with other groups. He later formed The Messengers in 1972. Before that, he had a big hit song called "Too Late" in 1964 with The Jackson Southernaires. His first song with The Messengers was "Heaven Must Be A Beautiful Place" in 1972.

He released many popular songs, including "Things I Can't Change" (1974) and "God’s Goodness" (1975). One of his most famous songs, "For The Wrong I've Done," was even nominated for a Grammy Award in 1980. Another well-known song was "God Is Still In Charge" from 1982. Willie Banks released many albums throughout his career. Five of his albums even appeared on the Billboard magazine Top Gospel Albums chart.

Early Life and Music Start

Willie Banks was born on May 11, 1929, in Raymond, Mississippi. He started singing when he was just five years old. As he grew up, he helped create The Jackson Southernaires, a gospel group he joined and left a few times. He also spent some time singing with Edna G. Cooke.

In 1972, after leaving The Jackson Southernaires, Willie Banks formed his own group, The Messengers. The group faced a serious van accident on July 6, 1981, near Atlanta, Georgia. Sadly, one band member, Willie "Bill" Badger, passed away. Willie Banks was seriously injured but recovered. He later shared his experience from the accident in a sermon during a re-recording of his song "God’s Goodness." This event encouraged him and his band to sign with Malaco Records.

Willie Banks' Music Journey

Willie Banks started his singing career by performing with gospel quartets. He sang with an early version of The Violinaires. His most important connection was with The Jackson Southernaires. With them, he released the album "Too Late" in 1969, which was very popular. After releasing several songs and an album side with them, Banks decided to form his own group.

He officially began his solo recording career in 1972 with the song "Heaven Must Be A Beautiful Place." In 1985, he signed with Malaco Records and released the album Look at the Blessings. He released many more albums, some even after he passed away. Two of his albums made it onto the Billboard magazine Gospel Albums chart. His 1992 album, The Legend Lives On, reached No. 19, and his 1993 album, Best of Willie Banks, reached No. 40. He worked with several record labels during his career, including Peacock Records, HSE Records, and Malaco Records.

Personal Life and Legacy

Willie Banks was married to Deliana Williams, who was the sister of other famous gospel singers. Later, he was married to Patricia Banks.

In 1990, Willie Banks was diagnosed with a serious illness. He continued to live for a few more years, passing away on February 1, 1993, due to heart failure. He was buried in Jackson, Mississippi. Willie Banks is remembered for his powerful voice and his many contributions to gospel music.

Discography