Madi Diaz
With Weird Faith, Madi Diaz, who “makes even the most immovable feelings open up with just a little time and space” (Pitchfork), comes up against a problem that has dogged songwriters since time immemorial: how do you write about romance, or love, without making it sentimental or fake? For Diaz, the answer was to explore how anxiety-inducing, if not downright humiliating, falling in love can be. Weird Faith answers these questions bluntly, and Diaz says the record “chronicles a new relationship, but also a new relationship to myself.”
Madi Diaz has been making records and writing songs professionally since the late 2000s, but it wasn’t until she released 2021’s History Of A Feeling that she felt the glare of wider notoriety. It wasn’t her debut album, but it certainly felt like it. She made her daytime and nighttime television debuts, embarked on her first solo tour since 2014, supported Waxahatchee and Angel Olsen on tour, and collaborated with them on record. Harry Styles handpicked Diaz to open for him in arenas and stadiums in North America, and was so taken by her captivating live show, he asked her to be a member of his touring band, to sing alongside him all over Europe and the UK, as well as continuing to open the show in various cities. After three months on the road touring internationally, Diaz is back in Nashville and gearing up to release her new album, Weird Faith, perched on the precipice of her moment.
Reyna Tropical
Reyna Tropical is led by guitarist, singer, songwriter and producer Fabiola Reyna (founder of She Shreds Media). Investigating landscapes of the tropical diaspora, Reyna Tropical is a musical exploration of intuition, transition, connection and continuation—a celebration of spiritual survival pulsing with the beat of all things tropical. In July of 2022, faced with the passing of co-founder and bandmate, Sumohair (Nectali Diaz), Reyna made the decision to continue in solidarity with the band’s founding vision to be a voice and a platform for the joy and injustices living within the spectrum of Queer Love & Afro-Mexico.
The long-anticipated debut full-length album, Malegría, is at once a vibrant arrival and an electrifying bridge. The portmanteau, born from a 1998 Manu Chao song by the same name, is akin to bittersweet and blends the Spanish “mal” which means “bad” and “alegría” which means “happiness.” It marks Reyna Tropical’s movement from a duo to a solo project. The album is a contemporary celebration and continuation of wide-reaching cultural traditions—from Congolese, Peruvian, and Colombian rhythms to revolutionary artists like lesbian guitarist-singer Chavela Vargas—these influences meld and are remixed through Fabi Reyna’s distinctive lens. Traversing themes including queer love, feminine sensuality, and the transformative power of intentional relations to the earth, Malegría spotlights narratives often pushed to the margins and offers them a sonic homeland.
Jon Batiste
Jon Batiste is widely recognized as “a certified musical genius” (The Guardian). As an American composer, pianist, singer, bandleader, educator, producer, and cultural ambassador who “actively promotes the normalization of musical ambidexterity” (Downbeat), he has worked with artists ranging from classical legends Andrea Bocelli, Hilary Hahn, Lang Lang, Yo-Yo Ma, and Itzhak Perlman to pop and jazz icons Beyoncé, Prince, and Herbie Hancock. Batiste’s many honors include five Grammy Awards, an Emmy Award, and an Oscar. Showcasing his improvisatory transformations of some of Beethoven’s most iconic works, Beethoven Blues (Batiste Piano Series, Vol. 1) was released in November 2024 by Verve Records / Interscope.
Beethoven Blues follows the success of his two most recent studio albums. World Music Radio (2023) received four Grammy nominations, including one for “Album of the Year.” Similarly, We Are (2021) made Grammy history, receiving eleven Grammy nominations in seven different categories, before winning “Album of the Year” and four more.
Immersed since early childhood in New Orleans’ rich musical heritage, Batiste trained as a classical pianist and received both bachelor’s and master’s degrees in piano from New York’s Juilliard School. Batiste is music director of The Atlantic and co-artistic director of the National Jazz Museum in Harlem, and serves on the boards of Juilliard, Carnegie Hall, and the nonprofit Sing for Hope.
Middle Kids
There is a question at the heart of “Faith Crisis Pt 1”, the third album from Sydney’s emotive indie trio Middle Kids. Over 13 propulsive, ecstatic and gorgeous tracks, songwriter and vocalist Hannah Joy attempts to tease out the question of belief; the breaking of it, and how it is rebuilt. Co-produced by Tim Fitz and Jonathan Gilmore (The 1975, Beabadoobee), Joy and bandmates Fitz and Harry Day masterfully express the sensation of being overwhelmed, swept up and dragged down in songs that exalt and lift you higher. “Faith Crisis Pt 1” is brimming with yearning, angst, pop brightness, belief in love and reassurance that even from the bottom, it’s possible to believe in beautiful things.
Middle Kids’ last album Today We’re The Greatest won Best Rock Album at the 2021 ARIA Awards. Released at the height of the pandemic, the album garnered the band several US TV show performances including Jimmy Kimmel Live, The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, and The Late, Late Show with James Cordon. Middle Kids first gained attention in 2017 with their debut single, Edge Of Town and their debut album, Lost Friends, which won Triple J’s Best Australian Album Award in 2018. The success of their albums has also earned the band an international touring profile which has included supporting shows with the likes of Bloc Party, Kings of Leon, War on Drugs and Cold War Kids and festivals such as The Governors Ball, Lollapalooza, Osheaga Festival and many more.
Keri Hilson
Before she could utilize her talents for her own solo endeavors, R&B singer, vocal arranger, and songwriter Keri Hilson wrote a slew of songs, many of them chart-toppers, for several popular artists in the mid-2000s as part of the five-person production/songwriting team known as the Clutch. The dynamic songwriter was born in Decatur, GA, only a few miles outside of Atlanta. Addicted to TV talent shows like Star Search and Showtime at the Apollo, she was already plotting out her career in music at age 12. Even though her mother hired a piano teacher to encourage those talents, she mainly wanted to sing; therefore, Hilson converted those sessions into vocal lessons, accompanying the teacher on piano. In her mid- to late teens, she jump-started her career as a songwriter and background vocalist, working under producer Anthony Dent. Born out of that relationship were two failed girl groups (named Pretty Toni and D’Sign) and, more importantly, a host of connections within the industry for whom she wrote or did backup vocals, including Usher, Ludacris, Kelly Rowland, Ciara, and up-and-coming Southern rap producer Polow da Don.
After Hilson graduated from high school, she managed to continue juggling all these tasks when she enrolled at Emory University in Atlanta. She eventually moved on from Dent and began working more with Polow da Don. Attending school while actively advancing her music career put a great demand on her, especially from being a member of the extremely versatile Clutch team. But as luck would have it, Polow introduced her to superproducer Timbaland, who wasted no time in signing the multi-talented songbird to his growing Mosley Music imprint in 2006. Over the next couple years, Hilson’s songwriting was practically ubiquitous, responsible for numerous hit singles. With Timbaland and Polow in her corner, Hilson relied on the vast pool of recording artists and producers who needed (and wanted) to return the favor for her Mosley Music/Interscope debut. After a couple pre-release singles and numerous delays, In a Perfect World… was issued in March 2009, shortly after one of its tracks, ‘Turnin’ Me On,’ had reached the Top 20 of the Hot 100, eventually reaching gold status and earning Hilson a pair of Grammy nominations.
Nina Sky
Born and raised in New York City, twin sisters Nicole and Natalie Albino, also known as Nina Sky, made a significant entry into the music scene in 2004 with their chart-topping hit ‘Move Ya Body.’ This debut track swiftly climbed to number 4 on the prestigious Billboard Hot 100, marking the beginning of their musical journey. The following year, their unforgettable chorus on NORE’s reggaeton classic ‘Oye Mi Canto’ propelled the track to newfound heights of mainstream success, solidifying Nina Sky’s position in the industry. Over the years, the talented duo has not only made a name for themselves as accomplished singers and songwriters but also as highly-regarded DJs, captivating audiences at festivals and events across the globe.
Among their esteemed collaborators are industry icons such as Diplo, Major Lazer, Sean Paul, Salaam Remi, Pitbull, and The Alchemist, reflecting the diverse and influential network Nina Sky has built. As DJs, their sets have graced renowned venues like The Museum of Modern Art, the GLAAD Awards, Dolce & Gabbana, and MAC, delivering high-energy performances that blend various musical genres seamlessly to engage audiences on a profound level. Approaching their 20th anniversary in the music industry in 2024, Nicole and Natalie continue to embody authenticity and innovation, paving the way for endless creative opportunities. With a wealth of experience, self-awareness, and a portfolio of dynamic musical projects, the twins maintain a powerful connection with their fans, establishing themselves as enduring figures in the music landscape.
Deitrick Haddon
Contemporary gospel artist Deitrick Haddon was born and raised in Detroit, Michigan, where he served as pastor and music director at Detroit’s Unity Cathedral of Faith. As the son of Bishop Clarence Haddon and Prophetess Joyce Haddon, he grew up in the church and preached his first sermon at the age of 11. Deitrick Haddon and his Voices of Unity drew upon both secular and spiritual influences to create a sound they dubbed ‘gospel soul.’ Signed to the Tyscot label, the group debuted in 1995 with Come Into This House. Two years later, Haddon and company issued Live the Life, which scored Gospel Music Workshop of America Excellence Awards in the categories of New Artist of the Year: Urban Contemporary and Album of the Year: Urban Contemporary. After This Is My Story (1998), Chain Breaker (1999), and Nu Hymnz: Live from the Motor City (2001), Haddon went solo and signed to the Verity label. Through releases such as Lost and Found (2002), the Tim & Bob collaboration 7 Days (2006), Church on the Moon (2011), A Beautiful Soul (2012), and R.E.D. (2013), Haddon maintained his reputation for pushing the boundaries of contemporary gospel. During the mid-2010s, he became even more visible through the reality series Preachers of LA and continued to release albums that topped Billboard’s gospel chart, including Deitrick Haddon’s LXW (2014) and Masterpiece (2015). In 2017, Haddon released a live LP, Deitrick Haddon & Hill City Worship Camp, led by the single ‘A Billion People.’ He then teamed with Grammy-winning producer Zaytoven to release the collaborative 2018 Christmas EP Greatest Gift. In June 2020, Haddon released the politically charged standalone track ‘I Can’t Breathe,’ which referenced the death of George Floyd and spotlighted the Black Lives Matter movement. ~ Jason Ankeny, Rovi
Read MoreBobby Caldwell
Bobby Caldwell, a talented artist with a smooth voice, made a name for himself in the music industry with a unique crossover style that blended contemporary R&B, soft rock, and jazz. His 1978 hit ‘What You Won’t Do for Love’ topped both the Billboard Hot 100 and R&B charts, solidifying his status as a star. This classic ’70s soul track introduced audiences to Caldwell’s distinctive sound, setting the stage for his subsequent successful albums such as ‘Cat in the Hat’ (1980) and ‘Carry On’ (1987). While maintaining R&B at the core of his music, Caldwell’s musical evolution included elements of jazz, big band, and traditional pop, leading to a series of Top Ten Contemporary Jazz albums like ‘Stuck on You’ (1992), ‘Perfect Island Nights’ (2005), and ‘Cool Uncle’ (2015).
Born as Robert Hunter Caldwell in Manhattan in 1951, Bobby Caldwell was raised in Miami in a family deeply rooted in show business. Exposed to jazz and show tunes from a young age, he drew inspiration from iconic artists like Frank Sinatra, Tony Bennett, Nat King Cole, and the Beatles. Starting his musical journey early, Caldwell learned to play the piano and guitar, and by 17, he was already performing and recording his own songs influenced by jazz, rock & roll, and R&B. Transitioning to Las Vegas, Caldwell joined the group Katmandu, performing a mix of originals, standards, and cover tunes. Signing with the Clouds label, he released his debut album in 1978, which featured the breakthrough single ‘What You Won’t Do for Love.’ Radio success and extensive touring helped Caldwell build a strong fan base in the U.S. and gain immense popularity in Japan.
With a career spanning several decades, Bobby Caldwell continued to refine his music, incorporating more jazz and traditional pop elements into his compositions. Throughout the ’80s, he released albums like ‘Carry On’ (1982), ‘August Moon’ (1983), and ‘Heart of Mine’ (1987), showcasing his evolving sound. In the ’90s, Caldwell embraced a polished crossover style, blending smooth R&B with Sinatra-esque crooning on albums like ‘Stuck on You’ (1992), ‘Where Is Love’ (1993), and ‘Blue Condition’ (1996), all of which achieved success on the Contemporary Jazz Albums chart. Despite the changing music landscape, Caldwell maintained his presence with frequent tours and new releases, including the chart-topping ‘Perfect Island Nights’ (2005) and ‘Cool Uncle’ (2015). His legacy as a versatile and talented artist endures, with his music continuing to captivate audiences worldwide.
Alexander O’Neal
This talented singer, Alexander O’Neal, originally from Natchez, Mississippi though based in Minneapolis, Minnesota, has made a significant mark in the music industry. With a voice reminiscent of the legendary Otis Redding, he began his career with ‘the Time’ before embarking on a successful solo journey. Known for his powerful and versatile vocals, O’Neal has impressed audiences with a mix of energetic dance tracks and soulful ballads. Collaborating with renowned producers Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis, his albums like the self-titled ‘Alexander O’Neal’ and ‘Hearsay’ have topped the R&B charts, showcasing his musical prowess. Throughout the ’80s and ’90s, he delivered numerous chart-topping singles, including memorable duets with labelmate Cherrelle. Relocating to Britain proved beneficial for O’Neal, where he gained even more recognition for his music. His evolution as an artist is evident in albums like ‘All True Man’ and ‘Lovers Again,’ demonstrating his growth as a performer. Embracing a smoother and more refined style, his later works like ‘Saga of a Married Man’ and ‘Alex Loves…’ showcase his maturity and enduring talent. Continuing to captivate audiences, O’Neal’s performances remain a testament to his enduring legacy in the music industry.
Read MoreTamela Mann
Contemporary gospel singer Tamela Mann is widely recognized for her powerful soprano singing voice and remarkable career achievements. She began her professional journey as a member of Kirk Franklin’s vocal group, later transitioning into acting in Tyler Perry projects. During this time, Mann also embarked on a successful solo singing career, blending faith-based gospel with contemporary R&B influences.
Born on June 9, 1966, in Fort Worth, Texas, Tamela Mann grew up in a large family and was deeply ingrained in the Church of God in Christ from a young age. Her talent in singing was evident early on, leading her to become a key member of the church choir and later joining Kirk Franklin & the Family in the ’90s. Mann’s acting career took off with notable roles in gospel musicals and Tyler Perry productions, including playing Cora Simmons in various projects.
As her music career flourished, Tamela Mann released several successful albums, with highlights including ‘Best Days’ reaching number 14 on the Billboard 200 and ‘Overcomer’ featuring collaborations with renowned artists like Kirk Franklin and Wyclef Jean. Her dedication to both music and acting resulted in accolades such as a Grammy Award for the song ‘God Provides’ from her album ‘One Way.’ Mann’s influence extends beyond entertainment, as she continues to inspire with her soulful voice and authentic performances.
Daniel Caesar
Daniel Caesar’s musical journey began in a Toronto suburb, where his upbringing in a home filled with soul and gospel music laid the foundation for his future as a singer and songwriter. Singing in front of his father’s church congregation from a young age, Caesar embarked on his path to musical stardom at just 17 when he left home to pursue his calling. Independently releasing his first EPs, namely ‘Praise Break’ (2014) and ‘Pilgrim’s Paradise’ (2017), he quickly garnered widespread acclaim. His 2017 debut album, ‘Freudian’, solidified his position as one of the most promising artists of his generation, attracting Grammy nominations and eventually winning for his standout track ‘Best Part’. Following this success, Caesar continued to soar with his sophomore album ‘Case Study 01’ (2019) and the chart-topping hit ‘Peaches’ (2021) in collaboration with Justin Bieber and Giveon, achieving multi-platinum status. With an impressive 5 billion streams and 31 million monthly listeners, Daniel Caesar has earned his place as the 79th ‘Most Listened To Artist in the World’ and a top-ranking Canadian artist on Spotify. Today, he stands on the brink of a new chapter, reshaping the boundaries of R&B music and making his mark on the mainstream music scene.
Read MoreDamon Little
Grammy Contributing songwriter, inspirational independent recording artist, record executive, activist, producer, and humanitarian Damon Little invites you to experience his latest chart-topping single, “NO STRESSING,” featuring Grammy nominated, platinum-selling queen of Neo Soul, Angie Stone. This powerful anthem, which has held the #1 spot on Billboard and MediaBase for four consecutive weeks, addresses the pervasive stressors in today’s world, urging listeners to embrace a stress-free mindset.
Damon Little is renowned for his emotionally resonant music, with past hits including the Billboard #1 single “STAND UP” and a series of Billboard Top Ten tracks such as “LET IT BE,” “BE ALRIGHT,” “I WON’T BE DEFEATED,” “SHOES,” “DO RIGHT,” “MAKE AWAY,” and “YOU CAN’T STRADDLE THE FENCE.” His music is celebrated for its heartfelt messages and the powerful concept videos that accompany his songs, aiming to spread unconditional love, harmony, and peace.
In 2000, Little burst onto the gospel scene with a series of hits that blended gospel with a strong urban R&B feel. His debut album, “You Can’t Straddle the Fence,” released in 2002, and subsequent hits like “Long as I Got Shoes” and “Do Right (How You Gonna Do Right with a Do Wrong Mind),” the title track of his 2004 album, solidified his place in the music industry.
Little was recognized and awarded by The Blind Boys of Alabama for being a writer on “I May Not Can See” off the album Higher Ground which won a GRAMMY in 2002.