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Electronic Press Kit
Known (/nōn/) - to be recognized, understood, or validated.
Jeremiah 29:11
In the summer of 2019, Courtland Pickens 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. As Known MPLS’s Founder + Director, Courtland 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 Ordway Center for the Performing Arts 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 MPLS 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 MPLS has recorded music with Kaycyy Pluto, Darnell Davis & Maya Marchelle, 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
WE ARE KNOWN
BIO.
KNOWN LIVE.
The Ordway Theater - Soul's Anthem
February 2023
St. Paul, MN
Timberwolves Game - Lift Every Voice & Great God
January 2023
Minneapolis, MN
Summer Jam
August 2021
Minneapolis, MN
Orignal Music.
HI-RES PHOTOS.





HOW THIS CHOIR HAS IMPACTED THE YOUTH
“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.”
-Caleb Richardson
I have always been a bit insecure about my voice because my voice can get really deep when I sing... until yesterday my director really boost my confidence about my low register! It’s only been a few months and he’s taught me so much!
-Camaja Byrd
I actually really love singing in my brother’s choir. I never thought it would be this awesome. I’m not even talking just about the voice. It’s really teaching me how to stay committed and getting me ready for other things in the future. Also, i’ve made so many new friends my age in this choir who feel the same way about god like I do. We pray together, we have fun together, we cry together, we eat together, and we sing together. We be city girls together . Thanks for the opportunity period Courtland Deon Pickens
Sincerely, City Girl Alto.
-Shaquanda Young
They are just phenomenal!! -Dana Brewington
Now that’s how you teach music 🎶. Excellent job with your community choir -Angela Stewart
"They sound amazing! What a wonderful instructor you are!!" -Angela Shackleford
"This is amazing!! Wish I was in this choir as a youth. They’re blessed." -Ashley Dubose
"I loved every moment of it! So glad you are giving them the opportunity to be in a safe environment to be artistic! It's amazing to watch!" -Tesa Johnson
REVIEWS
Now accepting bookings! To book Known MPLS for an event please feel free to contact us with any inquiries.
Faith Ross: booking@knownmpls.com
BOOKINGS.

