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Kristina Koller

Urbanbuzzmag.com

By Nigeria Anderson

VOCALIST & ARRANGER

Kristina Koller, jazz vocalist, songwriter, and arranger, is drawn to crafting music that crosses generations while still embracing the history and mood of classic jazz.  Kristina Koller’s new release, Walk On By, reimagines the Burt Bacharach songbook with hip, new, genre-bending arrangements. Bacharach, who died in 2023, composed some of the most iconic songs of the past 65 years.  Many young people are not familiar with his name. However, Kristina Koller has added her personal touch to reconnect both old and new to his renowned sound of great music, with great lyrics.  Walk On By is Koller’s fourth album and title single.  Kristina Koller released her first album, Perception, in 2018. Koller’s classical voice training makes her a perfect match for this project.  You can hear her talents, skill and abilities in her other projects, like Stranger, and Get Out of Town, a celebration of Cole Porter’s music.  Koller’s emotive vocals capture the heartbreak of A House is Not a Home, and the joys of friendship on That’s What Friends Are For, in which she sings a duet with her old friend Rosemary Minkler, an accomplished pianist, composer, and audio engineer.  Say a Little Prayer, in which Robbins wrote the arrangement.  Koller says, “This song is really burned in my memory because my mom played it so often.”

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PEG LUKE

Urbanbuzzmag.com

By Nigeria Anderson

My Faith Looks Up

Peg Luke, a singer-songwriter, composer and an Emmy and Grammy-nominated artist. Known as a professional flutist and teacher, her flute melodies have resonated across the globe, gracing renowned venues like New York City’s Carnegie Hall and London’s Cadogan Hall. Spanning classical to spiritual compositions, Peg Luke’s music captivates with deep emotions and vibrant energy, offering listeners an epic and heartfelt experience.  With thousands of records sold and countless live performances, Peg Luke’s stage presence is commanding and extraordinary musicality.  Her recent single, My Faith Looks Up, is a personal affirmation of encouragement.  Yet the song is for everyone who might need a boost of hope.  Peg Luke received a life-altering autoimmune diagnosis in 2019.  Since the pandemic’s onset, she’s been in isolation, separated from the public.  Despite this, she maintains an optimistic outlook, sharing her music and spreading positivity to uplift those in need. Her mission is to convey God’s message of love and faith.  

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Baruch

Urbanbuzzmag.com

By Nigeria Anderson

Baruch Debut Album Is Coming

Baruch is a native of Rock Island, IL  He discovered his passion for music by singing in the church choir. From that experience he pursued writing and recording his own songs, such as Give Em Some More, which is a lyrically upbeat Christian song.  Recently, he released a new single, Ant Hills.  Ant Hills is a poetic song with a strong message.  In 2020, fueled by his faith in trusting God, he will use his passion to produce music to share his powerful journey of redemption.  Baruch’s message is simply that God is faithful when you return with a pure heart of repentance.  His lyrics are hard-hitting and undeniable rhyme patterns underscore the fire in his soul.  Each track is designed to spread the Gospel. In this interview you are going to hear a very honest report of the goodness of God.  Baruch shares his encounter with Jesus on several major occasions.  I promise Baruch’s story is going to help you get through any challenge you may be going through right now. Also, it may prepare you when unforeseen circumstances show up.  You can purchase Ant Hills on all major digital music outlets. 

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Pastor Jason Palmer

Urbanbuzzmag.com

By Nigeria Anderson

Kingdom Music From J.P. & Nem

Pastor Jason Palmer, singer-songwriter, producer, author and apostle, aka JP the artist, has dedicated his life to bettering himself, his family, friends, the community, and the kingdom of God by simply obeying whatever God instructs him to do. Music has been the fabric of his life. As a youth, he learned how to play multiple instruments. Growing up in the church, JP was in the youth choir, became choir director and began writing and arranging songs.  He is known for launching a Christian rock band under JP & Seasons.  JP & Seasons, an award-winning and multi-award-nominated band, was recognized by Verizon and McDonald’s.  With success in music and traveling the world.  He heard the Lord call him to launch a church, where he is the lead pastor of Goodness & Mercy Church in Detroit.  Pastor Jason Palmer is the author of God Help Me To Forgive available now.  After taking time off from music to build Goodness & Mercy Church, JP has returned to music this year with a new name, J.P. & Nem (Nem is a vernacular term). The first single of his latest project, Just Like FIYAH is climbing the music charts.  Pastor Jason Palmer is passionate about people, and understands his purpose, to use God’s Word and music to reach the masses.  His new project is a call for unity not only in the body of Christ but throughout the world.

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Minna LaFortune

Urbanbuzzmag.com

By Nigeria Anderson

Dance With Me Vol. 2

Minna LaFortune, born in Kingston, Jamaica, is a poet, chef, and singer-songwriter.  Recently retired, Minna is currently following her lifelong dream as a recording artist.  Minna’s love of music was inspired by her mother and father.  Minna would often hear her mother sing around the house to her and her brother.  Her father would take them across the island and give them money to play the jukeboxes.  Influenced by the island’s love and music, Minna had an interest in singing, but it was overshadowed by life.  Which caused her to take the route of going to school, obtaining a quality education earning her Master’s Degree and getting a job.  Currently residing in New York, with her supportive husband.  Minna Lafortune is living out her dream of singing, and it’s all so surreal to her.  She was introduced to her producer, Lee Holness, through a mutual friend and, since then, their chemistry to create music has been non-stop. If you want to hear an authentic reggae sound, Dance With Me Vol. 2 is worth a listen. This is her third album to be released June 7th across all musical digital platforms.  Jamaica is known for producing fun music, consciousness and grooves for all to enjoy.  Minna brings her roots of music and love from her home, delivering conscious lyrics, love songs, and whining grooves.  The first single off her album is Don’t Drink Your Sorrows.  It is an encouraging song to remind the listener to keep going and not quit.  With her success of Dance With Me Vol. 1, Minna has created a sizable fanbase as an independent artist.  She entered the music industry singing original tunes.  Minna LaFortune shared with me that she appreciates various artists, but she did not want to introduce herself by singing cover songs.  The result.  Her original songs began climbing up the musical charts.     (more…)

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Keith Mitchell

Urbanbuzzmag.com

By Nigeria Anderson

Keith Mitchell’s Gospel Album

Keith Mitchell, has separated from his former Grammy-nominated and platinum R&B group After 7  and now solo. Mitchell is a singer-songwriter currently producing contemporary gospel music with a message.  Singing gospel songs is not a new venture for him.  Mitchell grew up in a Christian household and was an active member of his church.  He joined the youth choir at 7 years old and later became the youth choir director.  Mitchell has an honest passion for singing.  Remaining true to his passion of song, is how he connected with After 7.  Babyface Edmonds was instrumental in obtaining a recording deal for After 7.   He produced and co-wrote their hit song Ready Or Not.  While under the tutelage of renowned singer-songwriter and record producer Babyface Edmonds.  Mitchell had an up-close and hands-on experience with the Edmond brothers.  During their three decades of touring and creating music.  It’s only fair to say Keith Mitchell has been preparing for his solo album without knowing.  His life experience has enhanced his songwriting ability and producing skills.  He recently released his solo project titled Food For Your Life.  The first single, He’s Alive, hit the Billboard charts and was well-received by his fanbase.  He’s Alive has exceeded Mitchell’s expectations, and he is giving all glory to God.  The single is upbeat and incorporates his personal testimony during a rough time in his life.  You can purchase He’s Alive on all digital outlets.

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LYDIA CAESAR

Urbanbuzzmag.com

By Nigeria Anderson

Songstress Lydia Caesar

The Billie Holiday Theater launches its Spring 2025 season with the return of Billie & Beyond.  The New Music Series inspired by the Life and Legacy of Billie’s Iconic namesake with a special Valentine’s Day inspired show featuring Singer-Songwriter Lydia Caesar, Saturday, February 15, 2025 @ 8PM (Brooklyn, NY 1368 Fulton St, Brooklyn, NY 11216).  The event is co-curated with veteran journalist, TV/Film writer and producer Bonsu Thompson.  The series features the next generation of great female vocalists, and Lydia Caesar has answered the call.  She is excited about an opportunity to sing in the theater during Black History Month.  Lydia Caesar will take the stage and sing a tribute to Billie Holiday.  Lydia Caesar is known for her powerful and melodic mix of uplifting, soulful rhythm and blues music.  The audience are in for a real treat.  Lydia Caesar will perform a few of her well-known songs, including St. Louis, Through it All  and her latest single, The Greatest Love Story Ever Told.  

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MAJOR.

Urbanbuzzmag.com

By Nigeria Anderson

HE IS MAJOR.

MAJOR. Is a true musician, singer-songwriter, producer, actor and humanitarian.  He began making music at a young age.  He graduated from Berklee College of Music.  And like many who believe in their talent, he moved to Los Angeles to pursue his dream.  Today, MAJOR. Is living out his dream.  Eminent from his church background, he is known as a soul singer.  MAJOR. Has masterfully maintained his faith in all aspects of his career.  His music has reached platinum selling status and his acting career appears to be taking off.  MAJOR.’s work has received Grammy and NAACP nominations.  This year we are hoping for a win.  Not limiting his work to the arts, he is a true humanitarian, and was awarded The 2025 St. Jude Champion’s Spirit Award.  Recently, MAJOR. Released his current single, I Prayed For You.  In our interview he professed he actually prayed for you, the listener.  MAJOR. Is his birth name, and he is doing major things within arts and entertainment.  We believe he is just getting started.  He is beloved and known at The Hope Dealer.  He believes hope is the medicine we all need.  The name of his latest project is titled The Hope Of My Soul EP, and it is available on all digital outlets.  

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Robert Hawkins and Saint

Urbanbuzzmag.com

By Nigeria Anderson

Champion Is Released

There is nothing like celebrating faith in the Lord Jesus than singing a high praise or inspirational song that just shifts you into a place of peace and joy.  Robert Hawkins and Christian Hip Hop recording artist Bryan Carter, aka Saint, released a new single titled Champion.  An anthem song is needed for all of us who are still standing in the full armor of God.  Trusting and believing that purpose is a journey and at times a fight.  Robert Hawkins is a multi-award-winning singer and songwriter.  He has experienced life at the high moments of greatness with honor and has lived through low and turbulent pits of anguish. Saint launched his career in 2012 and his recent single Hold Me Together landed on Billboard’s Gospel Chart.  Saint is no stranger to despair, and he is able to add his lyrics of encouragement to the track. Robert Hawkins and Saint united their remarkable talents to create an uplifting anthem. Champion resonates with themes of empowerment and victory. The synergy between these two artists can be heard loud and clear and both agree it’s a divine appointment.  Their unique blend of powerful lyrics will touch the hearts of many listeners.  The bible encourages us to praise and rejoice no matter what is going on.  It is written: Therefore be careful how you walk, not as unwise men, but as wise, making the most of your time, because the days are evil. As believers, we understand, In Christ Jesus, no matter how evil these days may become. We know we are champions. 

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JOHN STEIN

Urbanbuzzmag.com

By Nigeria Anderson

Next Gen, Jazz For My Grandchildren

John Stein is a jazz guitarist, educator and author.  His music over the course of his career has been consistent with performing jazz.  His latest release, Next Gen, Jazz For My Grandchildren, is near and dear to his heart. By request from his daughter, he composed five tracks on his new album dedicated to his five grandchildren.  Stein began playing the guitar at seven years old.  Before embracing jazz, Stein performed folk music and rock and roll in his formative years.  After embracing jazz, he released his first album Hustle Up (1995) on Tightly Knit Records, a subsidiary of Knitting Factory Works. Hustle Up displays Stein’s talents, as a guitarist, composer and artist.  John Stein’s passion to play jazz guitar, he enrolled in Berklee College of Music to further his studies and hone his craft.  Stein graduated from Berklee College of Music, becoming a great jazz guitarist and educator of our day.  He has a career that expands over 30 years.  Stein is a retired professor of Berklee College of Music, and an author writing books titled Jazz Standards For Solo Guitar, Composing Blues For Jazz Performance, and Composing Tunes For Jazz Performance. John Stein has performed with some of the world’s finest jazz acts and can cover a spectrum of jazz styles.  

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