Courtland Pickens EPK
Courtland Pickens is a celebrated vocalist, dynamic music educator, and visionary community leader based in Minneapolis, MN. Beginning his journey in 2005 on the praise and worship team at his home church, Courtland quickly emerged as a powerful voice in gospel music. He has recorded and performed nationally, including with the Dove and Stellar Award–nominated group Darnell Davis & The Remnant, and has been featured on Bobby Jones Gospel. In 2016, he placed in the top 150 out of over 10,000 singers in auditions for The Voice.
As a solo artist, Courtland released his EP The Manifested Promise (2017) and the single Trust In You (2020), both expressing his heart for hope, faith, and spiritual renewal. His gift extends beyond the stage into meaningful community and educational work. He has served as Worship Director at Epiphany Covenant Church and as a choir director and music educator across Minneapolis schools, as well as an Adjunct Professor at Minnesota State University–Mankato.
Courtland is the Founder and Creative Director of Known MPLS, a vibrant youth and young adult gospel choir powered by Voicez Inc. Through mentorship, performance opportunities, and intentional community-building, Known MPLS empowers young people ages 12–25 to lead with confidence, purpose, and authenticity. Under his leadership, the choir has shared stages with world-renowned artists and performed in major venues including The Ordway and The Armory.
At the core of Courtland’s work is a belief in music as transformation. His voice and leadership continue to uplift, inspire, and nurture spaces where people can be seen, known, and healed through song.
Impact
Before joining Known MPLS I didn’t really have a sense of community. I struggled a lot with connecting with people and really putting myself out there. Becoming a part of Known MPLS not only gave me a place to connect with others that share similar experiences, but a place I could connect with myself and learn more about who I am. Being a part of Known MPLS taught me how to be a strong team member, and an even stronger leader.
I’ve only been in the choir for about two months, but honestly it already feels like home. From the first day, Known MPLS made me feel welcomed and like I’ve been here way longer than I actually have. It’s more than just singing, its laughs, real conversations, and people who actually care about each other. Being here has given me family and a community I can lean on. I’ve found people who will pray with me, encourage me, and push me to grow both in my gift and in my walk with God. Every rehearsal reminds me it’s bigger than music it’s ministry, it’s love, and it’s something I’m really thankful to be part of.
So I’m forever grateful for known MPLS!