1st COUSIN – A Pop/R&B, self-contained, songwriting family group is the latest millennial talent from the Dayton, Ohio area, “The Funk Capital of the World.” The same home to the Ohio Players, Heatwave, Slave, John Legend, Lakeside, Dave Chapelle, Platypus, Roger Troutman, and Zapp. There are certain city and state areas (i.e., Detroit, Memphis, Philadelphia, Minneapolis) along with certain talented family acts (i.e., The Band Perry, Jackson 5, Alabama, the Jonas Brother, Bee Gees, The Kings of Leon) that seem to have a long-standing successful relationship with the music industry business.

1st COUSIN – Are all really first cousins! Jelani Stokes (Bass Guitar, Vocals), Nouri Stokes (Vocals) and Jamal Stokes (Keyboards, Vocals) 25-30 years old, coming from a musical family. An uncle, Otis Stokes, is an original member and still performs with Lakeside. Adad/uncle, Arthur “Hakim” Stokes was an original member and did perform with Platypus and also wrote songs for the Jackson 5 and Michael Jackson. Also, there is an aunt/mom, Doris Stokes Knight, who is a Christian/Gospel vocalist.

1st COUSIN – Is a methodical Studio/Recording act (i.e., Spice Girls, The Monkees, Shalamar, One Direction, En Vogue, Steely Dan, Backstreet, N’Sync) that looks forward to touring and performing “live” their own Pop/R&B commercial and creative music. They all enjoy moonlighting with different bands to keep their “chops” on point! Currently, Jelani is a school music teacher, Nouri is a bank financial fraud specialist, and Jamal is attending graduate school for music.

1st COUSIN – Members all have a very diverse appreciation of music and musical likes and influences. Jamie Foxx, Robin Thicke, Boys to Men, John Mayer, Stevie Wonder, The Beatles, Sam Smith, Maxwell, Tyrese, The Eagles, Luther Vandross, Nick Jonas, Michael Jackson, Doobie Brothers, Take 6, Jagged Edge and Mint Condition to name a few.

1st COUSIN – Produced by Jelani and Hakim for TAJE Music Entertainment, is another modern-day family act looking to join the ranks of fresh millennial talent, making their imprint and giving birth to a special likable energy in the music and entertainment industry! The 3 first cousins are a good choice and are looking forward to the ride and journey!