Mary Cross is an acclaimed jazz vocalist, songwriter, arranger, producer, and bandleader whose rich, soulful contralto brings elegance and emotional depth to every performance. Mary is founder of the Mary Cross Jazz Quartet & Quintet (MCQ) and Mary Cross 2NspireU Full 10 piece Band, delivering refined interpretations of the Great American Songbook, classic soul, jazz and R&B and select original works.
Rooted in a strong musical foundation that began in the church choir at age 12, Mary’s artistry blends storytelling, sophistication, and warmth. Her style is influenced by legendary voices such as Phyllis Hyman, Sarah Vaughan, Nancy Wilson, Nina Simone, Oleta Adams, and many more while remaining uniquely her own.
Mary has appeared at respected venues and festivals throughout the country including the Pennsylvania Convention Center, Resorts Casino Hotel, Berks Jazz Festival, Chicken Bone Beach, Celebrity Theatre at the Claridge, NY Gotham Jazz Festival, and premier dining and listening rooms such as Eddie V’s, Lederach Piano Bar, South Jazz Kitchen and others. As a self-producing artist, she has curated sold-out concerts and tribute performances that honor iconic women of song with intention and care.
She is the founder of Mary Cross Music Presents and the nonprofit Muzikworks, Inc., and her work is well suited for festivals, jazz series, fine dining venues, wineries, and performing arts organizations seeking thoughtful, audience-centered live music experiences.