SHAQ HESTER, Man of Talents and Gifts
The Journey Begins...
Born in Paterson, New Jersey, and later relocating to Sumter, South Carolina, Shaq Hester, singer, actor, creator, began his relationship with music singing for his Preschool graduation ceremony. After that, his eardrums were influenced by the likes of Donny Hathaway, Luther Vandross, Whitney Houston, Stevie Wonder, Usher Raymond, The Clark Sisters, Kirk Franklin, John Legend and Musiq Soulchild.
Exposure to such refined musicians at an early age would soon pay great dividends for this young artist. In high school, he deepened his love for the performing arts. There, he performed in ensembles of various genres (Gospel, Jazz, Classical, and Musical Theatre).
Blossoming and Opportunities...
During his college years at the University of South Carolina, his passions expanded. While under the tutelage of Jacob Will, he was a featured vocalist in Carolina Alive Jazz Vocal Ensemble, USC Concert Choir, USCGospel Choir, and Opera at USC. USC Credits include: Bardolph (At the Boar’s Head, 2015), Don Alfonso (Così Fan Tutte, 2015), and Informer #1/Señor/Captain/Croupier (Candide, 2013). Other Credits: Little Moe (Five Guys Named Moe, 2014).
During his graduate studies, his gifts blossomed. While under the tutelage of Dr. Brian Gill, he was a featured vocalist in the IU African American Choral Ensemble and IU Soul Revue. IU credits include: Second Burgess (Peter Grimes, 2017), Water/Opera Chorus (Florencia en el Amazonas, 2016), Solo Inmate Three (Dead ManWalking, 2015). Other credits include Andre (Welcome to College Musical, 2017-2018). Hester earned his master’s degree from Jacobs School of Music in 2018.
The Continued Journey...
Since moving to New York, he has performed as a featured vocalist in the Off-Broadway play, Antigone in Ferguson and in Kerby Jean Raymond’s 2019 Pyer Moss Fashion Show. He has also appeared in Bronx Opera’s The Mikado and Trilogy Opera’s Treemonisha. In his 2019-2020 season, he provided background vocals for Aloe Blacc (GRAMMY-nominated recording artist), Jason Michael Webb (Special Tony Award recipient), Ari Groover (Alline - Tina: The Tina Turner Musical), A. Renee, and Demetrius Lane.
He strongly resonates with Donny Hathaway, who once said, “When I think of music, I think of music in its totality, complete. From the lowest blues to the highest symphony, you know, so what I'd like to do is exemplify each style of as many periods as I can possibly do.”
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MARY AKPA, Singer of the Soul
MUSIC IS IKO NSI OMA
Nigeria-born and California-raised, Mary Akpa pulls listeners in with her seamless blend of soul, jazz, electronica, and African influences. For Mary music is iko nsi oma— (Igbo, for magical spell). Deeply inspired by community and heritage, Mary conjures sounds to connect and transport audiences.
NIGERIAN WOMAN
Mary’s identity is clearly woven into her musical expression. At the intersection of being Black, Nigerian, and a woman, her experience is the central premise of her creativity. As an artist committed to social change, Mary co-founded Naija Girl Tribe: a non-profit supporting Nigerian girls through mentorship, personal and career development, and peer-focused counseling
MARY'S LYRICS
Mary’s latest offerings, “Black Body” and “A Hurum Gi N’anya” give us a taste of Nno, her first album in five years, expected Spring 2021.
You can follow and subscribe to Mary Akpa:
Website: maryakpa.com
Instagram: maryakpa
Facebook: @themaryakpa
Twitter: Mary Akpa
Youtube: Mary Akpa
Soundcloud: Mary Akpa
PARISH DEBERRY, The Creator
The Beginning
Parish J. DeBerry, known as PJ, PJ Blue, Allthingscapitol, and Capitol P, was born and raised in The Bronx. His family is known for their creativity through music, art, writing, and more. At the very tender age of two, Parish discovered the pots in the cabinets. He used them like drums, creating beats not too easy on the ears; however, it was the start of his musical passion.
Creating the Path
Though Parish talents extend far beyond music, his gift of creativity with words has brought him to a road that will get messages, he wants the world to hear. As Capitol P the lyricist, you will listen to Parish express his innermost thoughts, feelings, opinions, and facts through his lyrics. Through self-teaching, experience, and various courses, classes, and masterclasses, Parish can now carry the title of Record Producer, Audio and Recording Engineer, Sound Mixer, Sound Editor, and Recording Studio Manager. He is the proud owner of Allthingscapitol Studio.
The Way Made
Parish plans for 2021 and beyond will include a podcast, creative content through video, new music, and more. “My goal is a Pulitzer Prize. I believe in my God giving talent and hard work as a wordsmith that much.”-Parish J. DeBerry via Twitter: ToFlowDownLife @allthingscapitol
Follow and Subscribe
Allthingscapitol via Lnk.bio
Allthingscapitol via Twitter
Capitol Visuals via Instagram
REEMA FAITH, Voice of Movement
The Beginning
Reema Faith, born Kareem Scott, was born in Hollywood, Florida but raised in The Bronx. Both of his parents are from Jamaica. Reema Faith grew up in the church where he first heard anything musical. At a very young age he joined a choir called "Spirit and Black" at Butler Memorial in the North East Bronx. He also attended Highway Christian Church of Christ in Harlem in which he went on conventions to various states to battle other churches.
THE JOURNEY
As he got older, his eyes opened up to a new style of music in which he could still include the Lord. From having such a Great Inspiration at a very young age he became musically inclined with Hip Hop, R&B, Reggae, and Dancehall; hence the Jamaican background. He started performing in places such as Club Drom, Karma, The Beer Garden, The Karma Lounge, Flirt Lounge, The Golden Palace, H2O Lounge, Brooklyn Nights, Ric Lounge, Bass Line, Blackthorn 51, Mist Harlem, The PaperBox, and SOB's. Reema Faith has a number of singles where most of them can be found on Apple Music, Spotify, Youtube and other platforms. He is currently working on his Album entitled "Faith Without Works Is Dead" where he has already released two tracks from the album; "Music" and "Reema vs. Faith".
THE WORKS
https://music.apple.com/us/album/forward-single/1471615785?ls
https://youtu.be/AA5zCS9PjzU
("FORWARD" OFFICIAL VIDEO)
https://music.apple.com/us/album/weh-yuh-radda-single/1448949115?ls
https://music.apple.com/us/album/reema-vs-faith-single/1501633909?ls
https://youtu.be/MD1GUojfaSE
("REEMA VS. FAITH OFFICIAL VIDEO)
https://youtu.be/JHUTB21jcL0
("MUSIC" OFFICIAL VIDEO)
https://music.apple.com/us/album/black-single/1541484125?ls
Website : www.reemafaith.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/reemafaith/
Twitter: https://mobile.twitter.com/reemafaith
Soundcloud: https://soundcloud.com/reema-faith
JCKSN AVENUE, Soulful Voices
JCKSN AVENUE is a singing group of five gifted young sisters who are attracting music lovers across generations. Their rich harmonic sounds are fresh, energetic, passionate and captivating. Their music is further enhanced by messages that unveil a wellspring of love, hope, inspiration and perseverance.
JCKSN AVENUE’s first single exposes the need for real love in a troubled world, appropriately titled “If You Believe in Love.” As siblings, Madi, Jessica, Moriah, Kristian and Hannah grew up in Memphis, Tennessee singing and writing music together, and their chemistry is electrifying. From the start, they were exposed to various musical styles -- from singing in church, to performing in high school musicals and at major events. Practically growing up in the recording studio has also helped to influence and shape their singing, arranging, writing, and producing talents.
JCKSN AVENUE’S love for God, music and humanity translates in the positive way they interact with people on and off-stage. Whether performing at national events; captivating TV, radio and website audiences with their vibrant personalities and humor, or engaging in community service, this dynamic sister act is touching lives wherever they go. To hear them is inspiring; to know them is to love them. Their music is the artistic expression of a new generation that lives in hope, and in the light of God’s love. We invite you to hear, see and experience JCKSN AVENUE!
Follow & Subscribe
http://www.JCKSNave.com
http://www.facebook.com/jcksnave
http://www.instagram.com/jcksnave
http://www.twitter.com/jcksnave
http://www.youtube.com/jcksnavenue
DEVORY L. PUGH
Musical Creator
Devory "Lefty" Pugh is an artist, musician, and songwriter hailed from New York City. Born into a religious household, Devory’s musical roots were planted in the church. Although his household was morally grounded, he was exposed and influenced by the outside communities he spent time in.
"The synergy of my home and external influences molded my musical genesis and guided my pen when I put it to paper. Whether behind the piano, producing, or writing, my music is the sum total of my experiences” .
Devory's music is a reflection of the world seen through his eyes. He writes from firsthand experiences as well as from the point of view of an observer. The stories and imagery in his music/lyrics are captivating and full of vivid description. With the stroke of a pen, accompanying melody, rhyme, and chords, the listener can easily find themselves in the middle of a story as it is being told.
Devory has three new EP's available right now: The System, Love Will Win, and Climbing Out the Hole.
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CORY "GYPSY" SIMPSON
WHO IS CORY?
Cory "Gypsy" Simpson is a New York native who was born in Queens. He's a second-generation musician who comes from a musical family. His father formed and toured with the group "Kenny and The Diamonds" in the 1960s. Their name changed to "Intensive Heat" in the 1970s.
GUITAR LOVE
Cory grew up hearing his parents play various genres of music. He fell in love with the guitar's sound through listening to "Eye of the Tiger by Survivor. Cory's inspiration came through watching his godfather Angel (his father's best friend and guitarist) jam out to "Maggotbrain" by Funkadelic and also through his cousin, who played bass for Gloria Gaynor, Gary U.S. Bonds, and Wilson Pickett, who took Cory to a guitar clinic.
The love of the guitar within Cory, alerting him of his purpose on earth.
THE JOURNEY
Cory's musical journey started with the drums in a school band at the age of 12. Though he enjoyed the drums, the electric guitar pulled the strings of his heart. In 8th grade, Cory wrote in his journal that he wanted to be "one of the best guitar players in the world."
Cory played the drums until the age of 16. In high school, he played the bass. During his senior year at an annual show called I.N.T.E.X., he and some friends formed a band, where they played "Rearranged" by Limp Bizkit as their first performance.
Christmas of 1996, Cory's parents surprised him with a guitar after seeing how serious it became about his life's love and journey. He studied the style of who would become one of his "guitar heroes," Jimi Hendrix. He took on the stage name "Gypsy" after Hendrix's biography "Electric Gypsy."
A CAREER COME TRUE
After graduating high school, Cory "Gypsy" walked with his guitar on his back. This signature landed him his first recording gig with someone who noticed him and was looking for a guitarist to make a "complete" sound.
Over the years, Gypsy has continued to practice and perfect his craft. He learned to let all of his emotions out through his fingertips. It's said of Cory to have the ability to "change the record with his playing." He plays skillfully and passionately in several genres, such as Rock, R&B, Pop, Reggae, Gospel, Funk, and some Jazz.
THE GYPSY FILES
Cory "Gypsy" Simpson has had the opportunity to play and tour with lots of world renown artists such as: Ricky Dillard, Lydia Caesar, Styles P, Nina Sky, J.T. Taylor of Kool and The Gang, Amanda "Diva" Seales (The Real), Kymani Marley, Ed Robinson, Jessica Reedy, CeCe Peniston, Etana, Vee Bozeman (Empire), Naomi Cowan, Jesse Royal, and Public Enemy.
Cory's been featured as lead guitarist on several studio albums for NY local artists such as Ajaay Swindell, Kenny Swindell, Lonnie Swindell, Reggie Parker, and more.
THE GYPSY CONTACT
You're likely to find Cory "Gypsy" Simpson giving his all at a show with his favorite companion, Silverhawk, the name he gave his guitar. Silverhawk and Gypsy's connection during a performance will give you a look into Gypsy's heart. Since his first performance in high school, Cory refers to playing music as another way to fly and sees it as a "high". And he's been chasing that high ever since.
If you are looking for a guitar player for an event or for music, and if you don't want an ordinary experience, Cory is your guitarist. Cory "Gypsy" Simpson is available for weddings, parties, church services, studio sessions, virtual shows, live shows, etc.
Cory "Gypsy" Simpson's contact:
IG: @Cory_stringz
Twitter: Cory Stringz @the_Black_Gypsy
JAMEL JOHNSON
Musican Exatrodinare
After contributing to various CD recordings and album releases, Jamel Johnson, released his debut album, "The J. Johnson Project, Finally" in November 2013. Jamel Johnson's mainly jazz instrumental album, entitled "Vitality" is available for the world's eyes and ears. Hot and smooth music for the old and young to enjoy.
Christmas With Jamel Johnson "We Cry Holy" is the shortest body of Jamel's art, but is what he feels is the best. From a couple of familiars to a few originals. Powerful messages for all the world to hear!!
All of these wonderful works of art can be found on all digital outlets. Look out for the upcoming single "You're Coming Out Alright!!" This is such a powerful song with a strong message.
Three tracks:
1. The Testimony
2. The Song
3. A Capella version
Jamel Johnson "Music from the heart....Mine!!"
Follow Jamel on Social Media:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/philjamel/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/philjamel
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/philjamel/
