Press Kit
Known MPLS is a youth and young-adult choir based in Minneapolis, Minnesota, powered by Voicez Inc. Founded and directed by Courtland Pickens, the group blends gospel, R&B, and contemporary artistry to create a sound that is powerful, energetic, and unforgettable on stage. More than a choir, Known MPLS is a creative family where young people find their voice, build confidence, and experience belonging through music and mentorship.
What began as one Facebook post — “We’re starting a choir.” — quickly grew into a movement. Today, Known MPLS performs across the Twin Cities, taking the stage at The Armory, Target Center (Minnesota Timberwolves events), Mall of America Holiday Music Festival, the Minnesota State Fair, churches, galas, and cultural festivals.
Known MPLS exists to amplify authenticity and inspire hope through music. Their performances are known for tight harmonies, electric energy, and emotional impact that audiences don’t just hear — they feel.
“We aim to empower young dreamers by guiding them to find their voices. Music’s ability to uplift, relieve stress, and unify communities inspires our pursuit. Our aspiration is to heal and unify our community through gospel music.”
— Courtland Pickens
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.
This choir has been a safe space where I can show up exactly as I am. It’s a place where my voice is heard, my presence is valued, and my heart feels at home. In a world that can be loud and demanding, rehearsals are a breath of peace — a time to pour my emotions into music without fear of judgment. Here, we are more than singers; we are a community that listens, supports, and believes in each other. The love and acceptance in this room remind me that I don’t have to be perfect to belong. Being part of this choir has shown me that music can heal, and that sometimes the greatest harmony comes from simply feeling safe together.
Being a member of Known MPLS has impacted me in ways I didn’t know were possible before I joined in 2022. This choir has provided me with friendships and relationships that have taught me to be more empathetic, and be a leader among my peers. It’s helped me grow into a more confident performer, and more importantly, a worshipper. Through this choir, I’ve had countless life-changing opportunities to sing amongst incredible musicians, fellow believers, and in front of people whose lives have been touched by our voices. It’s a blessing to grow and thrive in a space where I can share my talent and do what I love, all while spreading the love of God with and for His people.
I’ve been in Known Mpls for almost 3 years now. Being adopted and going to a primarily white school meant that I didn’t have a lot of spaces with people that looked like me. Not only has being in Known encouraged me to grow in my faith, it even made me want to get baptized. Known has taught me that worship can connect you to God but it can also connect you to the people around you. Having a safe space like known is something that I’ll forever be grateful for. Being in Known has shown me that worship is a powerful weapon against the enemy and also an encouragement and act of praise. I’m so glad that I’ve been able to join this wonderful choir and not only that but that we have an amazing Director, Courtland, that encourages us in our faith and supports us in all aspects of our lives.