“Mary's vocal instrument weaves color, power, control, height and depth in her delivery of any genre of music. ”
mary Cross....Soul Diva
Fresh off of her debut single, In Love, There's A Risk, Mary Cross, the 'Mother of Cool Smoke' is back with her highly anticipated single entitled 'Promise'. Captivating from the moment that you press play, it starts off with a lovely piano-led melody, Carl Cox on alto sax and lush strings.
Promise is reminiscent of timeless classic soul music that takes its time to deliver and leaves you yearning for more.
Mary Cross rides the melody perfectly bellowing low registry vocal tonalities reminiscent of the late great Phyllis Hyman as she sings on the chorus, "promise to be faithful / promise to be grateful / promise that you love me / always thinking of me."
Vocals performed and written by Singer-Songwriter & Stylista Mary Cross.
Produced and cowritten by Grammy nominated producer Donald Robinson.
"This song celebrates everyone who made the PROMISE. Song written with love & commitment in mind."
There are few artists who are the very definition of a generational talent. Mary Cross is one of them...from smooth Jazz to Classic Soul & RNB her voice takes you on a journey - succumb. sit back and believe the lyrics she utters as if a personal serenade meant for your ears only...
FOR BOOKINGS
MARY CROSS is Classic Soul. A highly sought-after singer-songwriter with an instantly identifiable contralto voice -- tonalities often said to be reminiscent of the late great Phyllis Hyman.
Described as ‘the Mother of Cool Smoke’ Mary’s music is created 2INSPIREU.
Mary wrote her highly anticipated Sophomore release entitled ‘Promise’ and dedicates it to ALL who have made The 'PROMISE'.
Promise was released Jan 2021 and the is significant…a new year, a fresh start, appreciation for and celebration of love, life, commitment, relationships and the pursuit of happiness.
Mary's love for iconic women of song such as Phyllis Hyman, Nancy Wilson, Nina Simone, and Diahann Carroll left a lasting impression. In addition to their distinct voices, these ICONIC Queens wore elegant attire, and exuded grace and warmth during performances / interactions with audience members.
Such mentors solidified Mary’s commitment to create INSPIRING music. One of her greatest loves is to ensure every performance is an memorable - an Experience - to be treasured for a lifetime. The ULTIMATE GOAL: 2NspireU.
Mary’s debut single entitled 'In Love There's A Risk', was written and produced by Philadelphia's own Grammy Nominated Producer Donald Robinson (Rachelle Ferrell, Nancy Wilson, Phyllis Hyman, Vanessa L. Williams and many other artists).
The Love Project album will drop in 2021. www.marycross.org
Evident by consistently SOLD OUT concerts, Mary Cross is hailed for her rich, bellowing vocal tonalities taking audiences on a journey with her renditions of fused modern day and old school Classic Soul, Jazz and R&B, as well as her renowned tributes to the music of the late great Phyllis Hyman.
She engages audiences with the goal to introduce to some and reacquaint others with music of celebrated artists from various eras!
To book Mary Cross or find out more please call (856) 701-0204 or email: MARYCROSSMUSIC@GMAIL.COM
MEET THE BAND 2NSPIREU
“Whether an acoustic duet/vocal, trio, quartet, or accompanied by the entire 9 piece band, 2NspireU customizes the repertoire of each event!”
DANE CLARK
MD & Guitarist
Dane is excellence personified on Guitar! He is also Mary’s acoustic partner! Born Trinidad and Tobago in the West Indies, Dane grew up to the sound of steel drums and the 'Quatro', a ukelele-like instrument in a rich ethnic environment. His father, James, passed on his love of the guitar. Dane played and composed songs for the local church and several small groups. After migrating to the US to attend college, he studied classical guitar for two years at Rutgers University in Camden NJ and was also a student of Joe Federico (a disciple of Dennis Sandole) learning jazz. Dane went on to play for Bethany Baptist Church and is co-founder of Raptured Jazz/Rapture Fusion with Terence Jones. The group has evolved and plays infectious jazz, gospel, R&B and fusion on the local SJ and PA scene. Dane’s humility and work ethic is commendable and has not gone unnoticed. Dane Clarke released a new single entitled ‘Alter ego’ 'DeeCeegrooves' which can be purchased/heard from Apple music, Spotify, Reverbnation, Amazon, etc. Whether playing major chords or in a supporting role, Dane performs from the heart blended with resonance, color and soul stirring renditions. His wife Trenace is an honorary 2NspireU Band Wife & Sister Girlfriend who accompanies Dane to all events. This dynamic duo are the epitome of lovingkindness, support and a comforting ‘calm’!
MARY CROSS 2NspireU HAVE....
Been the opening Act for William ‘Smooth’ Wardlaw (Luther Relives) and Eban Brown (former lead voice of the Stylistics) and various Comedy Shows hosted by Chris ‘The Mayor’ Thomas.
Performed domestically and abroad for private, public, state and local organizations and was a headliner for the 2018 Willingboro Jazz Fest.
Assisted in creation/launch of a popular South Jersey Jazz and R&B venue, serving as Booking Manager, host emcee, weekly playbill creator, designer of tickets and business cards, and social media tasks
Mary Cross 2NspireU is highly sought after for private and community events. They performs. at hotels, theaters, universities, fashion/talent shows, healthcare institutions, shopping malls, County, Boro & city sponsored community events, as well as fundraisers, brunches, Jazz fests, Galas, weddings, birthday parties, memorials, founders day, sorority, fraternity, retirement parties and so much more!
Audiences are invited on a listening journey...from the first note she sings to the very last -- with one goal: ~2NspireU~
BRUCE ALFORD
Keyboardist, Balladeer * Musical Director
Bruce Alford is a gifted prodigy-A triple threat, if you will. Although the bass is his favorite instrument he has mastered playing percussion, keyboard, and his perfect pitch can compliment any vocalist. Bruce has taught voice in many choir settings performed alongside a number of gifted musicians throughout the country and abroad. A highly sought after musician, he is not limited to one genre of music. His ability to effortlessly play a number of instruments coupled with his providing accompaniment in many genres (jazz, soft rock, gospel, funk, R&B, and more)! Bruce has a love for music that is second to none. To witness his performance on keys trumps that would be hearing the melodious notes he brings to life when he sings - just as he plays. You too will be a believer in this gifted artist the moment you experience his gifts. Get ready for the ride! 2NspireU is honored to have Bruce as a key component to our project!