Talk of the Town Collective is a vibrant artist collective with over 10 years of experience enriching communities through music, visual arts, and cultural programming. Based in San Jose, the collective has engaged diverse audiences in San Jose, East Palo Alto, Oakland, and San Francisco. Comprising six dedicated members, Talk of the Town specializes in teaching music, drumming, and urban art to youth and families in afterschool settings, community events, and cultural festivals. Through their interactive performances and hands-on workshops, the collective creates powerful artistic experiences that celebrate heritage, encourage creative expression, and build community bonds. In addition, Talk of the Town publishes a magazine that highlights local arts, cultural projects, and community stories, amplifying the voices of the region’s creative scene. With a commitment to fostering unity and inspiring future generations, Talk of the Town has become a trusted presence and a dynamic force in Northern California’s arts and cultural landscape.
Kobie Crawford
Kobie Crawford is a dedicated father, husband, and talented computer programmer who balances his technical career with his love for music. A passionate singer since the age of 10, Kobie discovered his enthusiasm for drumming over the past decade and has since incorporated it into his musical journey. He performs regularly with *Talk of the Town*, bringing dynamic energy and rhythm to their shows. Inspired to share his passion, Kobie is currently working to introduce drumming into his 5-year-old son’s kindergarten class, fostering a love for music at an early age. His commitment to both his family and community is reflected in his creative efforts to connect people through music.
Khari Crawford
Khari Crawford is a passionate drummer and teaching artist based in the Bay Area, currently pursuing his studies at De Anza College. With 10 years of drumming experience, Khari has honed his craft as both a performer and an educator, using rhythm and percussion as tools for self-expression and community building. He collaborates with the Talk of the Town Collective, where he teaches youth and families through workshops, afterschool programs, and performances. Khari is deeply committed to using his talents to inspire the next generation, promoting creativity, positivity, and cultural awareness. Driven by a vision to create lasting change through music, Khari strives to uplift his community and empower others through the power of drumming.
Ivan Paredes
Ivan Paredes, also known as Jahny Wallz, is a music artist, producer, and instructor based in San Jose, CA. Born in Mexicali, Baja California, Mexico, he fled to the United States with his family to escape an abusive father. His early years were marked by constant struggle and frequent moves, but everything shifted when he took an Avid course in 7th grade, realizing that education was his path to a better life. While attending Chico State, Ivan discovered his creative voice through music, poetry, and free writing, which have since become central to his artistic expression and personal growth. Today, he uses his talents to inspire others through his music and teaching.
Jeremiah Osborne
Jeremiah Osborne is a 17-year-old senior at Silver Creek High School with a passion for visual art and drumming. He began drumming at the age of 10 and has since honed his skills, performing and teaching with Talk of the Town at numerous events, festivals, and after-school programs. An emerging talent, Jeremiah combines his artistic abilities with his rhythmic expertise to create captivating experiences for his audiences. He is dedicated to further developing his artistry and looks forward to expanding his role in Talk of the Town projects as he pursues his creative journey. Jeremiah’s commitment and enthusiasm continue to inspire those around him.
Miguel Gonzalez
For over 18 years, Miguel Gonzalez has been dedicated to sharing his passion for cultural education, community engagement, and artistic expression throughout the Bay Area. He has taught drumming, Afro-Latin rhythms, and urban arts to students and audiences in San Jose, East Palo Alto, Oakland, and San Francisco, using art as a tool to empower youth and promote self-expression. His work emphasizes leadership, identity exploration, and creating inclusive spaces that celebrate cultural heritage. Miguel is the founder of Talk of the Town: Urban Arts and Leadership, a program that blends art and activism to inspire youth and build community. Over the past three years, Talk of the Town has become a cornerstone of San Jose’s arts education, shaping the next generation of creative leaders.
Patience Wilson
Patience Wilson is a passionate youth advocate, dedicated educator, and talented singer with over 20 years of experience empowering young people. Her musical journey began in childhood, singing in church choirs and later performing in various bands. A versatile artist, she brings her voice and expertise to the community through workshops and performances. For the past three years, Patience has been a vital member of Talk of the Town, where she combines her love for music and teaching to inspire creativity and uplift youth, making a lasting impact through mentorship, music, and community engagement.