Known MPLS, a Twin Cities youth choir founded by Courtland Pickens, is releasing a new single this Father’s Day weekend celebrating Black men, with an upcoming five-song EP and appearances alongside Josh Groban and Jennifer Hudson on June 28.
Minnesota music
Posted inLocal & State
Funeral Arrangements Announced for Minneapolis Sound Legend Jellybean Johnson
Public funeral and celebration of life events have been announced for Minneapolis Sound pioneer Jellybean Johnson, honoring his legacy on December 20.
Posted inNational
Jellybean Johnson, Minneapolis Sound Pioneer and Beloved Mentor, Dies at 69
Jellybean Johnson, a founding architect of the Minneapolis Sound and beloved member of The Time, has died at age 69. His legacy spans iconic hits, groundbreaking guitar and drum work, production credits across pop and R and B, and decades of mentorship that shaped Minnesota’s music community.
Posted inJames on Jazz
Celebrating 25 years and a season full of jazz milestones
James on Jazz turns 25 this September. Celebrate The Dakota’s 40th on Sept. 20, remember Sheila Jordan, and preview the Detroit Jazz Festival and AACM 60th at the Walker.
Posted inMusic
Sounds of Blackness releases youth-powered anthem “WE’RE UNSTOPPABLE”
Sounds of Blackness releases “WE’RE UNSTOPPABLE,” a youth-driven anthem of resilience and movement featuring Jamecia Bennett, NUNNABOVE, and Atlanta Drum Academy.
Posted inMusic
DeLaSalle’s David Billingsley Named GRAMMY Music Educator Award Quarterfinalist
David Billingsley III, music director at DeLaSalle High School, has been named a 2026 GRAMMY Music Educator Award quarterfinalist. He’s one of just 200 educators honored nationwide for inspiring students through music and equity-driven education.
Posted inObituaries
Remembering Pepé Willie
The Minneapolis Music community has lost a legend. Linster Herbert Willie, Jr., affectionately known to the world as Pepé, passed away Sunday, June 1, at the VA Medical Center in Minneapolis after a brief illness. He was 76.
Posted inEvents
Hennepin Fest to spotlight women artists
Hennepin Fest on May 31 will showcase Minnesota women musicians and poets at Washburn Fair Oaks Park, promoting unity, creativity, and cultural resistance.
Posted inBulletin
Hennepin County Library’s digital music platform, MnSpin, open for local music
Minnesota musicians can join established acts and rising stars on MnSpin, the local music streaming and download platform from the library.