The Southern Singers Drum Group is led by Elder Jesse Banks. The Lead Singer and Drum Keeper is Jesse’s son, Mark Banks. Josh, Jaimie, Steven and Matt Banks, Jesse’s grandsons, complete the third generation of this family of singers, drummers, and dancers.
With over 17 years of drumming experience, Mark seeks to raise awareness through education and social gatherings. Based in the Middletown, Ohio area, the group strives to honor all Native Americans by specializing in intertribal songs. The vocal tones and drum rhythms are southern in style, using the lower range of the male singers’ voices, with the female voices joining in unison at a higher key. The full drum group is comprised of descendents from the Cherokee, Shawnee, Cree, and Apache tribes.
The mission of the Southern Singers is to share culture and spirituality in song and dance. Mark Banks states, “We help others understand the Native way through events, festivals, and Pow Wows. When we sing, we show respect and gratitude for all our blessings and for each other.”
Jesse Banks once said, “The drum is the heartbeat of our people and the way in which we honor our Creator.” This understanding binds the Southern Singers together as a drum group.
For more information about Southern Singers, or to book an educational or social event, please contact at info@southernsingers.com