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Biography
Courtland is a premiere vocalist, based in Minneapolis, MN. He has an amazing gift of singing and what sets him apart is his purpose in singing. In 2005 Courtland had his vocal debut after joining the praise and worship team at his church. Courtland has written music for gospel recording artists and How Sweet the Sound contestant Jamar Esaw & Triad For Christ. He was a lead vocalist of the Dove and Stellar award-nominated gospel group Darnell Davis & The Remnant. While singing with this group, Courtland was featured on the nationally-televised show Bobby Jones Gospel, and traveled around the country sharing his gift. He has been featured on a number of projects with musicians across a variety of genres. In 2016, Courtland auditioned for The Voice and placed within the top 150 contestants out of over 10,000 individuals who auditioned.
"Courtland's vocals are
like butter"
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Courtland released his debut EP, The Manifested Promise in June of 2017. The EP was birthed from the scripture Hebrews 6:15, “And so after he had patiently endured, he obtained the promise.” This EP is an introduction to his journey to obtaining the promise. In May of 2020 Courtland released a single, Trust In You. The Manifested Promise EP & the single Trust In You are both available on all digital platforms.
PROFESSIONAL
Courtland is currently the Worship Director for Epiphany Covenant Church, a multiethnic church plant in South Minneapolis. As well as Fellowship Missionary Baptist Church.
In addition to leading worship, he works as an educator in Minneapolis and teaches Concert Choir at both Patrick Henry High School.
NONPROFIT
In the summer of 2019, Courtland founded Known MPLS, an audition-based community gospel youth choir. The choral ensemble was established in the later part of 2019 as an extension of Voicez, Inc., a 501(c)(3), nonprofit music organization striving to train and develop the next generation of singers and composers throughout the Twin Cities. Courtland is Known MPLS’s Creative Director and leads with the performance-based music education to galvanize youth between the ages of 12-25 as agents of change. The choir promotes self-esteem, leadership skills, cultural awareness, discipline and a commitment to excellence.
Since its inception, Known MPLS has had an opportunity to share the stage with some of the most prominent musical artists. Known MPLS has performed in a wide variety of venues, joining the St. Paul Chamber Orchestra at the Ordway Theater and the Annual Music for the Holidays at The Armory. Live concerts have included the Minneapolis Urban League Gala and the MLK Breakfast at St. Cloud State University. Known has performed alongside Fred Hammond, Hezekiah Walker & Israel Houghton on the Festival of Praise Tour, and Shane & Shane for a National Live TV Broadcast. Known has recorded music with Kaycyy Pluto, Darnell Davis & Maya Buckner, as well as numerous events in local churches, high schools, and community centers.
“It is very important to me that we train the next generation of singers & songwriters. Music can be very uplifting, a stress reliever, can bring peace, and also bring a community together! Gospel music heals, and it is my hope that through my music, our community can be healed. I hope to empower youth to follow their dreams by teaching them how to find their voice.”
— Courtland Pickens
As an artist, Courtland seeks God to bring healing through his music. He believes that music transcends the exterior and reaches the hearts of people. As he sings, he feels The Holy Spirit change the atmosphere, as the mood is lifted, and listeners leave inspired. Courtland is able to impact so many people due to his sultry and soulful vocal technique.