2026 Black Onyx Management Soundstage performers
Born and raised in the heart of Indianapolis, Indiana, Taylor began singing at a young age in her church with her sisters. Her soulful voice quickly caught the attention of those around her, and before long she was performing in various choirs and ensembles throughout her community.
As she grew older, her passion for music continued to grow, and she began writing her own songs. Drawing inspiration from her upbringing in the church and her personal experiences, she crafted relatable lyrics that spoke to the hearts of her listeners.
With a unique blend of R&B and gospel influences, her sound is both soulful and uplifting. Her powerful voice is a testament to her roots in gospel music, while her modern R&B beats keep her sound fresh and current.
Today, she is a rising star in the music industry, known for her captivating live performances and her ability to connect with her audience through her music. She continues to write and perform music that speaks to the human experience, with lyrics that are both personal and universal.
With a bright future ahead of her, Taylor DeShawn is poised to make her mark on the world of music, inspiring and uplifting listeners with her powerful voice and heartfelt lyrics. To hear and see more of Taylor visit her website at https://www.taylordeshawn.com/
You’ve likely seen him rocking the stage at Chreece. He’s been described as Naptown’s “Chief Keef” but he’s far more complex, commanding, powerful, and purposeful to carry anyone else’s moniker. He is the one and only Mula Kkhan!!!
Impossible to define or encapsulate in a 250-word bio, the man is meant to be experienced, not described. His latest EP “Hey Mama I’m Back” featuring stand out head nod hypnosis “Posted” and “I Was Hollow” and has been on the short list of potential performers since dropping the song “Licks” over the summer (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DLTBSI1oo1M).
Come see Mula Khan and all our amazing performers taking over the SoundStage once again on Saturday, May 23, 2026 at the Community Alliance of the Far Eastside (CAFE). For more information as it becomes available, visit our website at https://melanininmay.com
“Jai Denise, the stage name of artist and songwriter Jalandra Phams, is not your average music artist—she’s a positivity-spreading, groove-making, award-winning, Grammy-considered R&B sensation from Indianapolis, Indiana. Known for her soulful vocals, empowering lyrics, and genre-blending sound across Pop, R&B, and Afrobeat, Jai creates healing music that promotes self-love, emotional strength, and personal growth. Her sound deeply resonates with fans navigating life, love, and letting go.
Her inspiring single “Beautiful” earned her a live TV performance, while standout tracks like “Do You Really Got Me,” “Lay Down,” and her latest release “In My Town Deluxe” featuring Snoop Dogg showcase her smooth delivery and heartfelt storytelling. Her anthem “Pretty and Paid” is a celebration of hard-working women and a reminder that confidence is a form of self-care.
Jai’s musical journey began with a toy piano gifted by her grandmother. Inspired by Alicia Keys, she turned her childhood poems into powerful songs—and she’s been on fire ever since. Today, she’s not only a dynamic music producer and singer-songwriter, but also a multi-talented school teacher and the author of children’s books “Big Boy” and “Big Girl,” which build confidence and encourage expression from a young age.
As a Grammy-considered artist and host of the Good Lips Podcast, Jai uses every lyric, beat, and conversation to uplift her community. Her platform is a safe space for those seeking positivity, authenticity, and a little motivation to keep glowing. She’s also a passionate advocate for mental health, emotional healing, and survivors of bullying and abuse.”
I asked our perpetual host, Tony Styxx what he thought of this hip hop tandem, and he described them as having “Midwest Outkast/Lunatics” vibes. This served as further confirmation for me and the vibe we seek to bring to this festival. Their infectious rhyme schemes and organic crowd engagement earned them a “Last Shot” position at last year’s CHREECE festival.
After having eyes on their undeniable talent and receiving the nod of approval from our committee, we’re proud to announce, performing at the 2026 Melanin in May® Festival , the tag team juggernaut leaving pandemonium in their wake, the high-energy duo of Kid & Courtland Tunstill, better known collectively known as Pinky!
From the heartbeat of Indianapolis, straight from the performer submissions emerges the one and only, Ms. Lee’a Ro!!
Lee’a Ro is an RnB and soul sensation whose voice began to enchant even before she could form words. Not confined to her hometown, Lee’a Ro has captivated audiences in and out of state, showcasing her artistry far beyond Indianapolis borders. A masterful songwriter and meticulous vocal producer, her crafted songs deeply resonate with audiences everywhere. Her 2012 magnum opus, “The Lee’a Ro Show,” intertwines exceptional songwriting with unparalleled vocal production. Each performance offers a glimpse into her world — one filled with melody, strength, and the challenges and triumphs of a devoted single mother. Unsigned but undeniably impactful, Lee’a Ro’s unique blend of life experiences and musical prowess makes her an unforgettable beacon in the world of RnB and soul.
An electrifying fusion of classical instrumentation with modern hip-hop and R&B rhythms, designed to create the perfect live soundtrack. Appearing live on stage at the 2026 Melanin in May® Festival , straight from the performer submissions, please welcome The Trap Orchestra!
The Trap Orchestra seamlessly fuses the elegance of classical strings with the raw energy of trap, hip-hop, and R&B, reimagining your favorite tracks in lush, orchestral arrangements. With violins, cellos, violas—and a rhythm section of bass and drums—they elevate the familiar into something new, sophisticated, and emotionally resonant. To learn more, visit their website at https://thetraporchestra.com/
Everybody wants to know “who’s the DJ”… in my Play from House Party voice,…Well, you’ll be pleased to know that once again, the official DJ for the 2026 Melanin in May® Festival is none other than Boogie Bang!
DJ Boogie Bang is a Indianapolis Native that has always had a love for music. He started rapping and eventually became one of Indy’s Most Popular DJ’s. His resume is extensive, he is a Graphic Designer, Podcast Host and Proud father of 5. DJ Boogie Bang is know for his smooth transitions and unique song selections. He keeps the crowd moving and engaged. If it ain’t Boogie it don’t Bang!
Boogie Bang joins hosts Tony Styxx and Amber Michelle Harper, as they oversee a soundtrack featuring live performances from Mula Kkhan, Jai Denise, Pinky, Taylor Deshawn and more.
