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Cedric Ballard

Urbanbuzzmag.com

By Nigeria Anderson

A Voice of Healing for Our Nation

In a moment when our nation is searching for hope, unity, and spiritual restoration, Cedric Ballard emerges with a sound that meets the moment. A seasoned Worship Leader and Psalmist, Ballard’s new single, Healing, arrives as both a balm and a reminder that worship still has the power to transform hearts, minds and entire communities.  Ballard’s dedication to music and ministry has carried his voice across the world. Known for his worship driven sound and his ability to shift the atmosphere in any room, he brings an authenticity that resonates whether he is inside church walls or ministering far beyond them.  For Ballard, worship is not performance, it is a God given assignment.  Raised in the church, Cedric Ballard’s journey into becoming a singer, songwriter, minister, and worship facilitator feels both natural and divinely orchestrated. His unyielding spirit and acceptance of his calling have shaped a ministry built on inspiring, uplifting, and guiding believers through the power of sound. Worship has a sound.  Every note he sings carries intention; every lyric reflects a heart anchored in faith.  With his single Healing, Ballard continues his mission of delivering a sound of transformational worship. The single speaks directly to those carrying emotional wounds, disappointment, grief, and silent battles.  Worship is a spiritual healing method and can happen with or without music.  Ballard’s voice makes that encounter feel tangible.

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The Strength of Love

Urbanbuzzmag.com

By Nigeria Anderson

A Powerful New Drama

The Strength of Love is a powerful new drama redefining modern relationships. It’s a compelling new film set to make its mark on the world of contemporary Black cinema. The Strength of Love, starring Sean Anthony Baker and Meelah Williams, premieres May 8, 2026, on major streaming platforms including Apple TV and Amazon Prime. Adapted from the acclaimed stage play of the same name, the film brings its original cast from stage to screen, preserving the authenticity, chemistry, and emotional depth that first captivated audiences. Produced by Baz Brothers Productions, The Strength of Love explores the complexities of modern relationships, communication, vulnerability, forgiveness, and the resilience required to sustain love through life’s most difficult moments. Inspired by real life challenges, the film examines how couples navigate adversity and the choices that ultimately shape their futures.  Produced with a dynamic cast of actors. Leading actors Sean Anthony Baker (as Tony) and Meelah Williams (as Melody) deliver layered, heartfelt performances that anchor the film’s emotional core.  They are joined by a talented ensemble including LaDarian Raymond, Wardell Richardson, DeEtta West, Patricia McRae, Sir Brodie, Tinesha Lynn, and others who bring richness and authenticity to every scene.  Salute to Meelah Williams on her film debut, she contributed to the soundtrack, and you will see a dedicated exceptional performance that most of us who follow her are used to. Salute to Sean Baker from the Bronx, stand up, for his continuing to represent us on screen. Both are true Key Players.

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JEVON DEWAND

Urbanbuzzmag.com

By Nigeria Anderson

Believe Bigger

Jevon Dewand’s vision, artistry, and impact with the tone and authority of a media mogul, continues with his latest project.  Jevon is  a producer,  singer and choreographer.  He ignites a movement of faith, power, and purpose with his New EP 10X ME.  He is a creative visionary within the gospel community and cultural motivator.  Jevon’s new project is designed to awaken the hero within every listener.  His message is bold yet beautifully simple: imagine a world where people lift one another through every storm.  In that world, humanity becomes 10X stronger, 10X brighter, and 10X more unified.  That spirit fuels Jevon Dewand & The Trap Starz rising anthem 10X My Blessings, a high energy declaration calling listeners to rise up, embrace growth, walk in faith, and multiply the gifts God has already placed in their hands.  Riding the momentum of the single, Jevon now unveils his highly anticipated 4 song EP, 10X ME, a project rooted in transformation, truth, and triumph.  This new project is a soundtrack of transformation.  Every track is rooted in a real place, a raw moment, and a deep connection to God’s presence and favor.  That mission is woven into every lyric, every beat, and every collaboration.  The project is a fusion of genres, voices, and purpose, avaialble on digital outlets.

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Jason Nesmith

Urbanbuzzmag.com

By Nigeria Anderson

Composer and Producer

Composer and producer Jason Nesmith has been tapped to create the theme for the upcoming animated Netflix series Stranger Things: Tales From ’85, premiering April 23, 2026. The new series, developed by Matt and Ross Duffer with showrunner Eric Robles, expands the Stranger Things universe with fresh adventures set in the winter of 1985 between Seasons 2 and 3. As Hawkins begins to recover and the shadows of the Upside Down finally recede, a new threat emerges beneath the ice, forcing our heroes into a race against time to protect their town once again. Jason collaborated closely with Robles to craft a theme that honors the iconic sound of the original series while introducing a bold musical identity tailored for the animated world. Beyond his screen work, Jason Nesmith is deeply committed to philanthropy through The Gihon Foundation, a nonprofit he leads with his siblings. The foundation supports musicians, writers, and multidisciplinary artists, with recent contributions to organizations including MusiCares and Homeboy Industries.

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Aaron LaVelle

Urbanbuzzmag.com

By Nigeria Anderson

Aaron LaVelle: NEXT CHAPTER

Aaron Lavelle is a singer, songwriter, and Urban Gospel/Contemporary Christian recording artist whose powerful vocals, heartfelt songwriting, and innovative musical style have positioned him as one of Gospel music’s most compelling emerging voices. After years of independently cultivating his craft and building a loyal audience, Lavelle has become known for creating music that bridges faith, culture, and contemporary expression for today’s generation.  Lavelle first gained national recognition with his breakout single Rock, which climbed into the Top 200 on both the Mediabase and Billboard charts solidifying his arrival as a rising force in contemporary Gospel. His momentum continued with Watch God Work,  the lead promotional single from his independent album CROWNED in 2025, which reached #88 on the Billboard charts and further expanded his reach. That success caught the attention of TRIBL Records, one of the most influential labels in modern Gospel music.  Aaron Lavelle’s official signing marks a defining moment in his career after more than a decade of independent artistry.  April 2026 his first release under the TRIBL banner is the heartfelt single I Just Want You, featured on his newly released album CROWNED, no longer an independent project. Now a signed recording artist. CROWNED is now available on all streaming platforms.

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Tamera Hill

Urbanbuzzmag.com

By Nigeria Anderson

Cinema Royalty

Tamera Hill began her creative journey in theater, writing, producing, and touring stage plays throughout the West Coast. That early foundation rooted in live audience engagement, emotional truth, and disciplined, character?driven storytelling continues to shape her cinematic vision today. Her work remains anchored in strong narratives, purposeful messaging, and a deep commitment to authentic human connection.  Hill made her feature film debut with Never Heard, starring David Banner, Robin Givens, and Romeo Mille. The film earned critical recognition and later reached global audiences through its successful streaming run on Netflix. Today, Never Heard is regarded as a cult classic, solidifying Hill’s reputation as a filmmaker with staying power.  A lifelong storyteller, Hill understands both the art and the business of entertainment. Her dedication to her craft has now led to a partnership with AMC Theatres for the nationwide release of her newest film.  To be released on April 3rd, The Secret Between Us, starring Michael Jai White, Lisa Arrindell, Victoria Rowell, and Karen Abercrombie marking another significant milestone in her expanding body of work.  With each project, Hill continues to rise as a dynamic force in cinema, advancing the presence and impact of women behind the camera. We call her cinema royalty.  Her films are distinguished by fresh vision, emotional depth, and a signature storytelling style that makes every release a must?see. Guided by faith, intuition, and a commitment to telling stories that have been revealed to her, Hill continues to innovate with intention.

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ROBERT MAROVICH

Urbanbuzzmag.com

By Nigeria Anderson

 Preserving the Gospel Legacy

Robert Marovich, affectionately known across the gospel community as Bob, stands as one of the most respected historians, authors, and broadcasters dedicated to documenting the rich tapestry of gospel music. As Editor in Chief of the Journal of Gospel Music, Bob has spent decades chronicling both classic and contemporary gospel, ensuring that the stories, sounds, and spiritual impact of the genre are preserved for generations.  Bob is the creator and host of Conversations with the Gospel Legends, a celebrated 30 minute video series on the PCC Broadcast Network featuring indepth interviews with Chicago’s most influential gospel pioneers. His deep knowledge and thoughtful storytelling have made him a sought after voice in major media productions. He appears in the award winning documentary How We Got Over (One State Films) and has contributed to numerous radio and film projects, including features for the BBC and WXPN’s Peabody Award nominated Gospel Roots of Rock and Soul, which aired on more than 200 public radio stations. Bob’s expertise was also tapped for the Dr. Henry Louis Gates Jr. documentary on gospel music, where he served as both an advisor and interview subject. His authority on the subject is widely recognized, especially as historians continue to affirm Chicago as the birthplace of modern gospel music, a narrative Bob has helped shape and elevate.

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Pastor Troy F. Vaughn

Urbanbuzzmag.com

By Nigeria Anderson

From Skid Row to CEO

Pastor Troy F. Vaughn stands as one of Los Angeles’ most compelling examples of what visionary leadership rooted in faith, resilience, and purpose can achieve. A respected pastor, author, and transformational strategist, Vaughn has built a career on restoring lives and strengthening communities through systems of hope, accountability, and opportunity.  His journey is nothing short of extraordinary. Once navigating the harsh realities of Skid Row, Vaughn experienced a profound personal restoration through faith that reshaped the trajectory of his life. Now following in his calling, as it is written in Luke 22:32 he has returned to his faith, been strengthened and now strengthening others.  There is no better educator than personal experience. Vaugh is spreading the good news that the same redemptive power is in all of us.  Staying on mission, he uplifts others engaged in homelessness, incarceration, and cycles of generational hardship. His leadership is a testament to what becomes possible when compassion meets strategy and purpose meets execution.  Vaughn is also the author of From Skid Row to CEO, a powerful memoir and blueprint for transformation. 

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David Crawford

Urbanbuzzmag.com

By Nigeria Anderson

David Crawford: A Veteran Arranger

David Crawford is a Flutist, composer,arranger and producer.  Crawford has spent decades shaping the sound of American music. His résumé reads like a tour through R&B and Soul history, with credits that include Patti LaBelle, Gladys Knight, Mary J. Blige, Bill Withers, Vesta Williams, René & Angela, and Con Funk Shun. Now, during Black History Month, Crawford returns with a newly remixed version of his single Africa Nouveau, available on all major platforms.  The remix places Crawford’s flute at the center of the musical conversation. On the original version, he shared the lead with acclaimed trumpeter Nolan Shaheed, a longtime friend and collaborator.  Nolan played with Marvin Gaye, Miles Davis, and Earth, Wind & Fire.  Both versions of Africa Nouveau are vibrant, with textures of modern Jazz.  Africa Nouveau Remix serves as the first release from his forthcoming album Something Borrowed, Something New. The project reflects his musical talents we’ve all come to enjoy.  

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James Judson

Urbanbuzzmag.com

By Nigeria Anderson

Songs Of My Dreams: Decades in the Making

Songs Of My Dreams, the debut jazz album by James Judson, is more than a collection of songs; it’s the fulfillment of a dream the vocalist and composer never knew he carried. Music has been woven into Judson’s life since childhood. He began singing at four years old and spent his youth performing in Country Rock bands, playing drums and guitar with an ease that hinted at natural talent. Yet, despite his lifelong love of music, he never imagined himself as a Jazz artist. That revelation didn’t arrive until last year, when a spark of inspiration in the studio unleashed a flood of long-suppressed creativity.  What makes Judson’s emergence even more remarkable is the nearly 30-year hiatus he took from music. After stepping away to raise a family and build a thriving multi-state construction business, he assumed that chapter of his life had closed. But passion has a way of resurfacing. In 2025, he returned to the studio to record his first Jazz project, a Christmas EP titled It’s Christmas Eve Tonight, featuring a 17-piece jazz band and an eight-piece string section. The experience reignited something powerful, leading him straight into the creation of his most recent project Songs Of My Dreams.  For this debut, Judson collaborated with top Los Angeles musicians, including vocalist Laura Cole, who appears on All of Me.  He penned 11 of the album’s 13 tracks allowing his creativity to flow.  The result is an impressive, heartfelt introduction to an artist whose life journey has finally circled back to his true passion.

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