Fusion saxophonist Marcus Anderson is an innovative figure in contemporary jazz, creating a bridge of national talent to his Carolina home.

A two-time Grammy and Stellar Award–nominated artist, Anderson’s sound blends jazz, soul, R&B, pop, rock, and funk into his own style. With 18 studio albums and five Billboard #1 hits, he’s earned a reputation for musical excellence and versatility. With his current band, The Creatives, Anderson delivers high-energy shows that push the boundaries of what jazz can sound like today.

Raised in a musical family in Spartanburg, South Carolina, Anderson’s early exposure to gospel and jazz shaped his distinctive tone and creative approach. “Charlotte played a big role in my early growth as a musician,” says Marcus. As a student at North Carolina Central University, he studied under Branford Marsalis and Dr. Ira Wiggins, who had a deep influence on his musicianship.

He performed around the city, doing shows with Tammy Green and playing for artists like Marcus Johnson and Bob Baldwin when they came through town. He met talented friends like Adrian Crutchfield while performing with local group “Intertwyned.” “It was a struggle to gain traction at first, but piece by piece, these experiences helped me connect with local supporters and build a foundation.” That technical mastery and stage presence now define his live performances.

In 2010, Marcus worked with Anthony Hamilton, which led to opening, touring, and recording with Prince. Anderson began sharing the stage with jazz icons at world-renowned festivals including Essence, Catalina Island JazzTrax, and Seabreeze Jazz Fest.

He was inspired to create his own jazz festival, The Marcus Anderson Jazz AND Coffee Escape, now heading into its 8th year in Asheville. The festival has featured incredible artists like Dave Koz, Brian Culbertson, CeeLo Green, Regina Belle, Kenny Lattimore and more, allowing him to pay it forward and showcase the Carolinas’ rich musical spirit.

Guided by his father’s motto, “Work smarter, not harder,” Marcus Anderson continues to pursue a path that balances artistry and innovation, and to enrich music for himself and his local community.

Join him on Saturday, October 25th. Tickets…

Enjoy a preview of Marcus from his 2024 performance here at Middle C Jazz.

If you cannot be here in person, but would like to enjoy Marcus’s performance, get access to a livestream here.

Enjoy a preview of Marcus from his 2024 performance here at Middle C Jazz.