23rd Annual Awards Ceremony Performers
JC
For Justin Crowder, the goal is to make music that people will remember and relate to; invoking an unforgettable feeling. For his more popularly known moniker, JC, it’s about creating real music with a touch of swagg; charisma in the form of a sound recording! Referring to his writing style, he states, “Everything I write is catchy with strong metaphors, fresh concepts, and captivating melodies that stick.”
JC is pleasant, humble, quite witty and even a little shy at times. He lacks arrogance, yet embodies character-built confidence. But one thing stands above all these traits…JC is a STAR!
MAKO GIRLS
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This dynamic trio have been featured on top tier media such as Sheen Magazine, 21Ninety, featured as one of the Top 8 Black Girl Groups on BET.com, Black Link Magazine, Hype Magazine, CeeSoDope.com, and mentioned in Hip Hop Weekly. MAKO Girls entrepreneur endeavors are nothing less than amazing. Utilizing the unique way; they introduced themselves into the music industry, The MAKO Girls created a party-concert series called, "The MAKO Girls Annual Carnival Glow Party". This annual event transformed into a professional platform where other artists that possess the same drive and passion can showcase their talent. The experience elevated to a bigger event year after year, hosting over 450 event attendees within its third year in existence.
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​With over 1.6 million followers on TikTok, MAKO Girls worked with MAJOR brands such as Beats by Dre, JD Sports/ Nike, ColourPop Cosmetics X Disney, Good American, Sony Music Entertainment, IMVU, Dollskill, and IHOP. Their desire to make a difference in the music industry has been the driving factor within their career. This Award-Winning girl group is definitely one to keep your eye on.
Kweena dess
Kweena Dess, a rising rep artist from North Charleston, SC, has been making waves in the music industry for the past four years. Balancing her passion for music with her work in hospitality, Kweena Dess brings a unique perspective to her craft, cleaning hotel rooms and accommodating customer needs while pursuing her dreams. A proud alumnus of SC State College, she majored in Mathematics, demonstrating her multifaceted talents and determination.
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Her music is heavily influenced by the gritty, powerful sounds of Memphis rap legends like La Chat, Gangsta Boo, and Mia X. This inspiration is evident in her own tracks, characterized by a distinctive flow and beats that resonate with today's listeners. Describing her style as "THE NEW RAP,' Kweena Dess's bars are both relatable and reflective of the modern era. Recently signed with Ready2BIowIIc, she has been with the label for four months and has already released two new singles, "Check In" and 'Baby Baby," showcasing her evolving artistry.
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Kweena Dess's ambitions extend beyond music. She envisions herself winning at least three Grammy awards and featuring in multiple award-winning movies. Her love for travel and trying new food places adds to her dynamic persona, while binge-watching old TV shows and series offers a glimpse into her down-to-earth side. With her drive, talent, and authenticity, Kweena Dess is poised to make a significant impact in the rap scene and beyond.
LOTIS
Noah Bayless, professionally known as LotisMusic, is a rising melodic R&B singer and rapper from Nashville, Tennessee. Blending smooth vocals with emotionally driven storytelling, LotisMusic has cultivated a sound that resonates deeply with listeners—particularly his strong and loyal female fanbase, drawn to his charm, authenticity, and romantic energy.
A proud alumnus of Tennessee State University, Noah earned his degree in Mass Communications/Media Journalism with a minor in Africana Studies. He is also an Outstanding and Achieving Member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc., initiated Spring 2024—further reflecting his commitment to leadership, excellence, and community impact. Inspired by icons such as LL Cool J, LotisMusic confidently brands himself with the mantra “Ladies Love Lo,” embodying a modern-day blend of charisma, confidence, and emotional depth. His music balances vulnerability with swagger, making him both relatable and aspirational.
LotisMusic is widely known for his grassroots promotional approach, utilizing a hands-on, street-team strategy that mirrors old-school industry grind—traveling city to city, state to state, building genuine connections, and introducing his brand face-to-face rather than relying solely on digital platforms. His motivational anthem “Put The Work In” generated significant buzz, becoming a go-to track for fitness and hustle culture, while fan-favorite “Soft Girl Era” from his latest EP Give Me My Flowers further cemented his place in the modern R&B landscape. Currently, LotisMusic is gearing up for his next single release (TBD) and is in the studio working on a follow-up EP slated for release later this year. He is also collaborating with other emerging artists to curate another standout project
NÜ
Two time Southern Entertainment Award Winners for "Best Group", the power of NU lies in the dynamic sisterhood. Formed in Jackson, MS in 2018, NU is comprised of 3 members Trouble, Essence and Fait, and is the unapologetic trio that sets the standard for fierce, fun and authentic storytelling.
Trouble (The Captain), is the fierce, versatile powerhouse vocalist and group vocal producer - the sonic architect who ensures every vocal hits with precision. Essence, the bubbly, grounded melodic core, weaving the depth and layers into every track and Fait, the vibrant spirit who grounds the sound with her deeply rich and sultry lower tones.
Defined by their self-coined genre, "Cinematic Confessional R&B," the group serves as a sonic sanctuary for the Zillennial woman. Their music lives in the space between a late-night drive and a sharp-edged realization. They are your diary out loud. Their street-smart R&B Pop is the perfect cocktail of the confident swagger of Destiny's Child, the unfiltered fun of TLC, the smooth appeal of Blaque and the fierce charisma of the Spice Girls. Their signature stacked harmonies and that one, spontaneous laugh woven into their tracks create a testament to their unbreakable bond.
They are committed to bringging back something important in music, storytelling while also challenging you to get your sh*t together. Their mandate is simple: Be true to you.
Their impact is undeniable. They were praised by Musaholic Magazine as "the fresh but familiar new voice of girl groups." NU is here. The revival is here.
