MTV Made’s Award winning indie star Maya Azucena has a progressive yet accessible style, transcending genres and trends. Like Lauryn Hill, The Roots, Corinne Bailey Rae, or Cee-lo Green, she embodies a singular and finely honed artistry through a combination of her profound lyrics, soaring melodies, and irresistible rhythms.

Billboard and the Washington Post have heralded her mesmerizing performances as well as the Village Voice who said, “armed with a powerfully compelling voice, Azucena just could be the most impressive of the current hip-hop/soul/r&b diva crop.” Her recent performance at SXSW prompted the Austin Chronicle to declare her the “Best Pipes” at the festival. One Okay Player review explains, “Azucena received prominent notice in 2007 when she appeared on Stephen Marley’s Grammy-winning Mind Control album, but her pipes have been heard on projects all over the world benefiting various causes. In Brooklyn and beyond, she’s known for her humanitarian efforts in support of domestic abuse victims and disadvantaged youth. These elements combine to give all her songs a message of encouragement… the girl’s is addicted to positivity.”

Appreciated by many artists in the worlds of hip-hop, soul, jazz, dance and reggae, Maya has been part of countless collaborations, including Mr. Cheeks, Stephen Marley, Marcus Miller, Cormega, Immortal Technique, Vernon Reid and Jonathan Peters. In 2010, she was heard on multiple tracks from the critically acclaimed album Pickin’ Up The Pieces by Fitz and The Tantrums. Her new CD, CRY LOVE has been listed on several Best of 2011 lists including #1 on Pop Matters, and Amazon’s “Top Albums You May Have Missed.”

2012 will be the 4th time Maya Azucena and her musicians have played official SXSW showcases.