2023 Lineup

Punk Funk Party Rock Blues

Don't miss Newark's hometown heroes The Randy Haze Trio as they return to the Newark PorchFest stage and rock the crowd like no one else does with their own brand of PunkFunkPArtyROckBLues!
And be sure to follow them on Instagram at randyhazetriomusic

American Songbook Jazz

Carrie Jackson is a vocalist/band leader based in the NY, NJ, CT, and metropolitan area. She’s a wonderful vocal stylist that combines Classic Jazz Standards, Blues, Broadway, Gospel, Contemporary Cabaret, tunes with sincere spirit. She explores the nuances of the melody thru improvisation and lyrics to deliver renditions that make the listener take notice of her creativity and charisma. Carrie’s All Star Ensemble truly swings and performs music from The

Great American Song Book, Composers: George & Ira Gershwin, Duke Ellington, Lerner and Loewe, Cole Porter, Rodgers & Hart, Count Basie, Houston Person,
just to name a few while maintaining a style that is uniquely her own. To get more information on this amazing performer visit her website: www.cjayrecords.com

Caribbean Soul Hip Hop

The Cain Marko DJs to make people move. He makes it a point to play a wide variety of songs that fill people with energy and emotion so they can express themselves. His spins embrace a mix of Hip-Hop, House, R&B, Caribbean music, Funk, Soul and whatever else he can find that promotes people dancing.

Gospel, Pop & Soul

William LaVant is a singer/songwriter. Sounding the alarm with his boldness and army-strong vocals on the streets or in front of a congregation, at that specific time, any and every culture comes together in unity. William's style of ministry in music, along with his unexpected appearances, draw crowds of all ages, and surprisingly amazes those who are eager to experience his presence. William continues to strongly make this musical statement, as it clearly expresses who and what he stands for.

Hip Hop House DJ

The IZM. is returning to The Newark PorchFest with his amazing show. Born Anthony Peterson in Newark NJ, The IZM.'s first album, King For A Day, garnered him a placement in Spike Lee's Da Sweet Blood of Jesus in 2015. In 2019, he released his inaugural house album, Black Boy Wonderment, and the latest release, Mr. Saturday Night, follows in its path. Follow on The IZM. on Instagram: @the_izm3000

Caribbean-Classical-Jazz

Janetza is a Newark Native of Taína descent who combines the traditions of Jazz, Soul, Rhythm & Blues,
Bolero, Bomba y Plena, Hip Hop, & more into a remixed sonic delight of vocalizations and rhythmic proclamations that transport you to a space that is suspended in time. We're very lucky to have Janétza (a top 18 finalist on NBC's "The Voice") play for us right here in Forest Hill.

Contemporary Violin

The Newark PorchFest is happy to announce the triumphant return of The Violin Diva, Charisa Rouse. She is a contemporary violinist and vocalist who has devoted her career to challenging every preconception of what the violin (and violinist!) can accomplish in contemporary music.

Classically trained, her diversity has allowed her to travel the world, recording and performing alongside such artists as Demi Lovato, Vivian Green, Kim Burrell, Cyndi Lauper, William McDowell, Diana Krall, Quincy Jones, and Patti Labelle and Misty Copeland on BET Black Girls Rock, to name a few.

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More than just a performer, Charisa fundamentally recognizes the importance of string programs in
American public schools as an in-demand teaching artist. She has developed “it's Stringtastic! Strings Curriculum” targeted at reaching young minority string players; a curriculum which she uses regularly in the two NYC public school programs she founded a decade ago, reaching 200 Black and Latino students annually.

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In Nov 2012, she released her first solo CD project the Prelude EP, and will continue the journey with gospel album “the War Chronicles, vol. 1” releasing in fall
2022, and a new R&B/ jazz project and tour to follow soon after. Stay tuned for the next chapter in soul. For more info on her events and projects, please reach out to her at theviolindiva.com.

Jazz, Rock & Pop

At its roots, Starikova is a Rock band. However, it tends to pull from any and all sub-branches of Rock. Nothing is off limits when it makes music: from aggressive Punk to spatial shoegaze, from experimental progressive Rock to soulful Blues.

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Visual Art + Americana/Bluegrass, Jazz

Kassaye Selassie is a singer/songwriter, guitarist, and pianist with work that spans across R&B, Folk, and Jazz. As a visual artist, Selassie’s focus is centered upon portraiture and sequential art.

Visit him on instagram: @kassayeselassie

Visual Art

Marie Medjine Antoine’s work is the exploration of a black woman and Haitian daughter navigating the American patriarchy through systems of art, research, and spirituality. She molds her findings to create a sustained reality where she can dream.

Spanglish Sea Shanties 

Deivito's original Spanglish songs represent a synthesis of sounds inspired by Latin and Caribbean American music and his love for Outlaw Country and Rockabilly music. Among his dearest influences are Hector Lavoe, Creedence Clearwater Revival, Eliades Ochoa, Linda Ronstadt, Willie Nelson, Natalia Lafourcade, and The Stray Cats. He sings mostly about marginalized voices; the magic of nature, the sea and the moon; his favorite things to eat. He hails from Elizabeth and eventually moved all the way to Newark.  For more on Deivito visit his website: https://deivito.bandcamp.com/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/deivitomusic

Folk/Soul 

The Newark PorchFest is delighted to have the return of Crystal Gaynor, to our stages. She is a singer-songwriter, guitarist, whose inspired interpretations of popular songs stylings create a musical experience that delights. Crystal brings her love of popular
rock, soul & folk music into an "unplugged" acoustic format with musical sensitivity and fun!
Please visit her instagram for more at: @CrystalsMusicBox

Spoken Word

Ameerah Shabazz is a spoken word artist/producer and founder of a female spoken word org: “When Women Speak.” She is also a photographer. Shabazz has performed throughout Newark and New Jersey. Her work has been shown in multiple galleries, the Newark Arts Festival, the Newark Museum, and is currently on display at the Newark Library.

Bagpipes

Bagpipes music, pipes and drums honoring the fallen. 

Funk-Pop-Soul

Diamonds in Jupiter returns to the porches of their hometown — Forest Hill! This powerhouse band has been getting their fans up and out of their seats for
well over a decade. A real showtime cover and original band, Diamonds in Jupiter will be performing the best in Pop, R&B, Funk, Dance plus Smooth Jazz
Grooves for your listening and dancing pleasure. Don't miss them!
Follow them on Facebook: @Diamonds in Jupiter

Jazz R&B

Returning to Newark PorchFest for a 2nd year, Chaancé is a Jazz & R&B singer with a

voice you will not forget. Her influences include Ella Fitzgerald, Minnie Riperton and Aaliyah. Chaance presents Jazz music with a fresh R&B flavor. You are sure to enjoy her sounds with a live band!
You can find more of this wonderful artist at chaancebarnes.tumblr.com or follow her on
Instagram: @chaancegould

Visual Art

Jades Art Corner designs merchandise (notebooks, cards, keychains, etc.), Jades paints, and has a clothing brand.

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jadescorner.online

Handcrafted Jewelry

Aya Styled Creations designs and creates unique expressions of wearable art in the form of jewelry. Her creations are handcrafted using various types of materials. She is most inspired by color, bold as a rainbow, or soft neutrals of earth tones. While she does enjoy the monetary benefit of jewelry making, her greatest joy is the smile of satisfaction on a customer's face after purchasing one of her designs.

Funk, R&B

Breaknrecords Band’s music is a mix of Neo Soul and Funk music that will make you move..

Gospel

The Newark PorchFest welcomes Seychelle Elise, a powerful Gospel Recording Artist whose uplifting music will have you dancing in the streets and feeling joyful. Be sure to check out her latest single #SoAmazing out now! To learn more about Seychelle follow her on Instagram: Seychelle Elise.

Funk, Jazz

The Jarrett Walser Pack is a modern Jazz group comprising band members of The Fanny Pack. It plays a variety of styles from Jazz, Funk, Rock, Latin, and more.

R&B-Funk-Soul-Dance

With two silent beasts, one roughneck, and a rich melodic voice, Blaq Rose is an ensemble of musical potency. Growing up in Essex County, all members of Blaq Rose began nurturing their craft in church. Four unique personalities creating one vibe, they are the epitome of the Garden State music scene. Some associate the symbol of a black rose with death, but it also symbolizes rebirth and rejuvenation. Blaq Rose is a band bringing back an era of live entertainment when music was soothing to the Soul and rejuvenating lives. They are the sound today’s music is missing. An astute collection of musicians, songwriters, producers, and vocalists. They are here to state their claim as the "Baddest Band In The Land." They have played at venues such as; Savannah’s Linden NJ, Mr’s G’s East Orange NJ, MetLife Stadium East Rutherford NJ, U.S.S. Intrepid Museum NYC, and Sugar Bar NYC. Join us in bringing life and quality to all!

Pop-Rock

Catchy, melodic Pop with a nod to the classic singer/songwriters of the 1970s. Thought-provoking lyrics and ear-catching melodies combine with scorching solos to create a sound that evokes Billy Joel, the Eagles, Ambrosia, and Ben Folds.
To hear Ted’s music go to: tedallen.hearnow.com
Or visit: facebook.com/TedAllenMusic
http://twitter.com/ted_allen

Rock

RPM is a four-piece classic Rock band that perform cover songs of the greatest hits from the 60's up to today's hits. For over ten years they have been performing for their fans and meeting new people. The band will always welcome suggestions for songs to be added to their extensive music list. RPM is looking forward to seeing everyone at this year's Newark Porchfest!

Country, Pop

Mia is a twelve-year-old singer/songwriter and aspiring actress from New Jersey who performs Pop, Country, and songs from musical theatre. She also plays piano and ukulele.  At age eight, she was the youngest artist to participate in NY/NJ Port Authority’s “PATH Performs” Program.  She performs at fairs, special events, sporting events, and competitions. Most recently she performed for Cheryl Porter (celebrity vocal coach featured on “Ellen,” and YouTube/TikTok sensation) and has been invited to Chicago to record videos with her.
 

Jazz Trumpet

We are thrilled to present New Jersey's very own Bruno L. Lee, also known as ‘The Trumpet Man’ to The Newark PorchFest stages. He will dazzle you with his amazing horn skills. Expect a full range of music
including Gospel, Jazz, R&B, Reggae and more!

Singer/Songwriter

Acoustic guitar, singer, and songwriter set.

Visual Art

She likes to call her art “meditative abstract.” Diving into a world of color, her art is where imaginations can roam free, making out different images from the lines and shapes. Viewers will find their own hidden Soul messages when they look closely and with an open heart: You find what you feel. 

arthealsall.com

Funk, Hip-Hop

Lef’s musical influences are too vast to name everything, but they have led Lef to create music in a multitude of ways. Simply put, Lef won't make something twice.

Manga Art

We are thrilled that local NJ artist Solimar Infante is returning to Newark PorchFest. Pop color illustrations and original character designs are her passion. Stop by her exhibit and you'll find some awesome and affordable products featuring her dynamic art. In
addition to original artworks, she'll be selling buttons, stickers, keychains and magnets guaranteed to brighten up your space and bring a smile to your face.
Check out more of her art on Instagram: @soul1thief

Visual Art

Walls draws and paints images related to comics, movies, and TV. He uses pen and ink, watercolor and digital media. Besides original artwork, he will be displaying printed work and comic books.

Neo-Soul

Sultry, sassy, Queen BLEU Nile, melodically takes you on a soul full journey of funk, jazz, and everything Neo-Soul! Accompanied by some of Jersey’s most
talented musicians and vocalists, Paterson-bred Queen Bleu Nile’s energetically captivating performance style, will leave you wanting more!
Check out more on Instagram: @queenbleunile

Pop-R&B-Hip Hop

Larayne is a canvas painted with sultry highs and lows, chanting, belting, and even dropping #Bars over gritty bass lines and hypnotic backgrounds spread over Pop, R&B and Hip-Hop. This is what the music might sound like if Aaliyah met Rihanna at Lauryn Hill's house.

Hula Dance

Nā Pua Mai Ka Lani Nuioka is a hui hula (hula group) based in Queens, NY. It strives to share the teachings of hula, the culture of Hawai'i, and the spirit of aloha, all in the memory of its late kumu (teacher), Kumu Kale Kawai.

Visual Art

The Newark PorchFest welcomes Jadeley Louis-Jean, a Newark-based, Haitian artist specializing in abstract and cartoon art. She is the creator of “Verona’s Comics “ which offers a glimpse into the life of a young woman learning to navigate the world.” by way of it's heroine, Verona: a blue-haired cartoon woman who you may have seen around the city.

Dance, Rock, R&B

Jimi Hendrix meets The Roots.

Visual Art-Painting

Banks is a portrait artist and muralist. His work has been displayed in Newark Museum of Art, Newark Public Library, and Newark City Hall, as well as multiple murals in West Side High School.

Rock

Simple music for complicated people. Mars Is Watching’s music ranges from angular and jagged, guitar-driven indie Rock to in-your-face power Pop, always framed by sardonic lyrics and a somewhat skewed view of life.

Funk, House, Jazz DJ

Cameron Kelly is essentially a House DJ from New Orleans, tapping into the entire fabric of what makes the music so wonderful. Jazz and Blues set his foundation, Disco is the backbone and the Soul is... Soul.

Jazz

The Newark PorchFest is happy to introduce you to Clara Castanheira, a Brazilian singer who has recorded in some of Rio de Janeiro's best studios. She has provided vocals for “Domingão do Faustao” at the famous Brazilian channel “Rede Globo" and has toured as a backup vocalist for one of the most famous singers in Brazil, “Anitta”. Come hear her sweet voice at PorchFest!

Punk Rock

GYP covers Rock, Grunge, and alternative songs, including bands like Alice in Chains, Red Hot Chili Peppers, and Pixies. Its originals are none alike, but cover Rock and alternative genres. Band have all been really good friends and put their own experiences and jokes into their lyrics.

Visual Art

Contemporary acrylic paint illustrations.

House, Soul, World

Popido's style is 'Global Diaspora via Newark'! He's a master of blending genres, sounds, and people, creating unforgettable and exhilarating experiences. With a talent for bringing diverse souls together, he loves exercising the art of gathering, making each fun and meaningful! Get ready to dance, laugh, and connect!

Rock, Blues

Vakili is a 5-member original rock band led by frontwoman, Lily Vakili.  Magnet Magazine describes us as: "a full-on, revival-style, Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds-meets-the Pretenders, rock 'n' @%&! roll band."

Visual Arts

Hip-Hop, Jazz

Caliber & Friends combine Jazz stylings with futuristic sounds over Hip-Hop rhythms and then rap and play the trumpet over them.

Jazz

Brandon Mejia sextet performs Jazz standards from all over the swing and bebop era. Its original arrangements by Adrienne Bazile are heavily inspired by legends like Wayne Shorter to modern day Jazz musician Godwin Louis.

Ukulele Jazz, Pop

A fusion of jazz and pop - Norah Jones meets Ingrid Michaelson.

Classic Rock, Country, Folk

Classic Rock, old Country, and old Folk.

Rock, Ska, Reggae

Troubleman is a dynamic and electrifying band that has been making waves in the music industry since its formation. With a unique blend of rock, ska, and reggae, the band has carved out a distinct sound that has earned them a dedicated following.

Latin, World

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