Banks and Hampton
Banks & Hampton were a notable American soul and R&B music duo active during the 1970s. The group consisted of musicians Homer Banks and Carl Hampton, both of whom were influential figures in the music industry, particularly in the realm of soul music. They gained initial recognition for their songwriting at Stax Records, where they crafted several successful songs before moving on to a publishing deal with A&M Records after the label's closure.
The duo is perhaps best known for their captivating sound characterized by soulful melodies and heartfelt lyrics. One of their prominent works includes the album "Passport to Ecstasy," recorded in 1977 under Warner Bros. Records. Their performances and recordings, such as "Passion and Promises," have been well-received, reflecting their artistic talent and the era's musical style.
Banks & Hampton's contributions to the music landscape during the 1970s left a lasting impact, influencing future generations of artists within the soul and R&B genres. Their ability to blend smooth vocal harmonies with engaging instrumentals has kept their music relevant, and they continue to be celebrated among fans of classic soul music.
For those interested in exploring more of their music, platforms like Apple Music and Spotify offer a selection of their songs and albums.
Overall, Banks & Hampton's legacy in the soul and R&B music scene remains significant, showcasing their creative partnership and impact during a vibrant musical period.
Passport To Ecstasy
A2 Passport To Ecstasy 3:55
A3 Let's Make Up 4:21
A4 Believe 5:22
B1 We're Movin' On 4:00
B2 Get On Up, Shake Some Butt 4:10
B3 Loving You 3:56
B4 I'm Gonna Have To Tell Her 4:21
B5 Passion And Promises 3:56
Written by Carl Hampton and Homer Banks
Label: Warner Bros. Records – BS 2993
Format: Vinyl, LP, Album
Country: US
Released: 1977
Genre: R&B Soul
Style: Seventies Soul. Funk
The album Passport To Ecstasy by the soul/funk duo Banks & Hampton (Homer Banks and Carl Hampton) was released in 1977 on Warner Bros. Records. It is known for its blend of soul, funk, and R&B and features songs that were a departure from their earlier instrumental work at Stax.
Music critics and fans often praise the album for its quality songwriting and solid groove, characteristic of the era's soul music. Homer Banks and Carl Hampton were prolific songwriters at Stax Records, and this experience is evident in the album's well-crafted tracks.
The album is described as having a modern soul sound for its time. One review noted that it was the first album where they had vocal songs rather than instrumentals, offering a different vibe compared to their previous work.
The album was produced by Brad Shapiro and written by Banks and Hampton, featuring a consistent, high-quality production.
While not a massive commercial success at the time, the album has gained a following over the years and is considered a "good album" that grows on the listener. The general consensus among collectors and soul music enthusiasts is that Passport To Ecstasy is a quality record, showcasing the duo's transition from Stax-era instrumentalists/songwriters to a vocal act on a major label. It is a sought-after item for vinyl collectors, especially those interested in 1970s funk and soul.