Youth Choir Director

Courtland Pickens is a gifted vocalist, educator, and visionary based in Minneapolis, MN, whose journey is deeply rooted in faith and community. A proud “pew baby,” Courtland grew up in Peoria, IL, at Holy Tabernacle Church of God in Christ, where his love for music and ministry was cultivated through constant involvement in church life. After accepting Christ at 12 and later being baptized at Shiloh Temple in Minneapolis at 14, he went on to serve in various leadership roles—Youth Ministry Lead, Administrative Team, and Music Lead. His passion for gospel music, born in those early years, has remained at the heart of his calling to uplift, heal, and build community through music.

Professionally, Courtland has lent his voice and songwriting to groups such as Jamar Esaw & Triad for Christ and the Dove and Stellar-nominated group Darnell Davis & The Remnant. His talent has been featured on national platforms like Bobby Jones Gospel and earned him a Top 150 placement in NBC’s The Voice auditions out of over 10,000 singers. He is the founder and Creative Director of Known MPLS, an audition-based gospel youth and young adult choir under his nonprofit, Voicez Inc., dedicated to equipping young leaders through faith, music, and mentorship. Courtland also serves as Worship Director at Epiphany Covenant Church, leads the Youth Choir at Fellowship Missionary Baptist Church, teaches choir at Camden High School and Minnehaha Academy, and is an Adjunct Professor at Minnesota State University – Mankato. Whether on stage or in the classroom, his mission remains the same: to empower the next generation to use their voice as an instrument of purpose, healing, and hope.

Proud father of an incredible son, Courtland Pickens II—aka C2.

“Delight yourself in the Lord, and He will give you the desires of your heart.” – Psalm 37:4

 Binge-watching great TV shows and shopping—especially when it comes to fashion. I love putting fits together and expressing myself through style!