LLT Virtual concert series

From the streets of the Motor City come the heavenly Sounds of Imani. The husband and wife duo Drs. Gerald & Carol Ervin have brought the Holy Spirit into their music. Imani's mix of jazz, Christian, and R&B music has earned them a strong fan following and gospel music awards. The word "Imani" means" faith. It is the foundation of the music the duo and their band makes, as well as the message they spread.

Imani has been bringing faith and music to Detroit and abroad since 1996. The music has helped uplift others. From their first mini-cd released in 1996, "Praises," to their upcoming 2021 EP release of "Holy is Thy Name", Imani is spreading their sound to those who need love and hope. When asked about what makes Imani's music unique, they responded: "Our music is unique because we are inspired to write lyrics for songs that touch the heart and soul of people. The songs we write come from our own heartfelt personal experiences, and we believe that factor makes our music reachable, receivable, and believable."

Imani's songs are both spiritual and funky. Their new single track Come Praise the Lord is a “happy, upbeat, dance and praise track that reminds us we have a lot to be thankful for. When it seems like all is lost, and it's the end of the road, something miraculous happens that turns around our situations. Imani's music is inclusive and open to everyone. The sense of family they have in the band extends to their fans. Sounds of Imani has been featured on Inner Court Live TV with Gregory Pearson Sr. and Carl B. Phillips, hosts of the YouTube tv show; as well as Jerry Royce Live (Atlanta, GA).

 Singer, songwriter, pianist, faith-driven lyricist, and guitarist Katy Kinard’s influences range from the vocal and lyrical styles of Nichole Nordeman and Natalie Merchant, to the conversational style of David Wilcox, within the pop/rock and folk genres. Spiritual influences include writings by Phillip Yancey, Flannery O’ Connor, and C.S. Lewis. Katy is a winner of the 2013 International CWIMA contest, the ’09 Independent Music Awards Popular Vote, and Embassy Music’s ‘05 regional pick. Her song “World’s Largest Peanut” took first prize in the 2009 International Acoustic Music Awards folk category; her song “Sunshine,” second. She works alongside Be Loud Promotions organizing tours in multiple states and has recorded and co-produced four albums: “Headed Back” (2005), “You’re Still Better” (2007), “Lullaby Hymns: the weary soul” (2010); and her latest: “God of Fireflies” (2016) 

  As a dynamic performer, comedian Cyrus Steele is quickly establishing himself to be a comedic force through his wit and hilarious celebrity impersonations. He covers everyone from Barack Obama to impressions of Kevin Hart and Donald Trump! Steele appeals to all audiences young and old, with clean comedy and mining humor from his Southern roots, growing up in Savannah, Ga. He made his television debut on Dish Network's "Comedy Shootout with Chad Prather" in 2018. He has performed at many of the nation's best comedy venues, including the famous Apollo Theater. In 2017, he was a top 5 finalist for HBO's American Black Film Festival and most recently a finalist for Jeanne Robertson's Comedy with Class. In 2019, he was a finalist for Steve Harvey's 2019 'Standup Spotlight'. And more recently made an appearance on FOX's 'TMZ' and won their 'Wacky Talent Competition'! 

 Keyana the Artist is originally from Mid-West Indiana. Poetry is an inspiration when she expresses it through words and dancing. It is amazing when she's performing to the world what it means to them. Her focus as a new artist is to encourage others to be in touch with their emotions. She strives to be a motivated and inspired well-known artist around the world.Keyana is both an artist and Christian Poetic Dancer. She is a graduate of Horace Mann High School and Ivy Tech Community College majoring in Business Administration. She is also a current member of Dress for Success, determined to reach her dreams.She started writing poetry in high school and started performing in 2010. She performed poetry, mimed at many conferences, churches, open mic, and much more. Keyana-The Artist has performed in several cities and states such as Louisville, Kentucky; Chicago, IL; Richmond, IN, Indianapolis, IN & Atlanta, GA.