Ester Rada pulls from her Ethiopian-Israeli roots to mix music genres in a way that is described by critics as “gracefully combining Ethio-Jazz, Urban-funk, Neo-Soul and R&B.” With musical influences such as Nina Simone, Ella Fitzgerald and Aretha Franklin, Rada has a unique take on soul that has already earned her recognition globally. Since the release of her EP Life Happens, Rada’s popularity has boomed and she has successfully toured the US, Canada, and Europe, as well as showcased at the highly respected Glastonbury Festival. Rada has also been nominated for the MTV EMA awards “Best Israeli Act”, cementing her rise into the international soul music world.
Maya Azucena is not only a celebrated singer-songwriter but a humanitarian, cultural ambassador, and activist who often lends her talents to causes such as natural disaster relief funds, breast cancer walks and domestic abuse awareness. The Village Voice says, “Armed with a powerfully compelling voice, Azucena just could be the most impressive of the current hip-hop/soul/r&b diva crop.” She has collaborated with many artists, including Stephen Marley on his Grammy-winning album, Mind Control, which in turn earned her a Grammy certificate. She is also the recipient of the 2011 Hearing Our Voices Award that states, “Thank you for using your voice to make the world a better place.” –