Crosstown Arts

Crosstown Arts Film Series Presents: Dreams
2026-08-27 19:00 - 21:00 (America/Chicago) | Crosstown Theater, 1350 Concourse Ave., Memphis, TN, 38104, United States
Akira Kurosawa’s visually breathtaking anthology transforms dreams into pure cinema. Moving between wonder, terror, memory, and apocalypse, the film reflects on humanity’s relationship with nature, war, art, and the subconscious through a series of unforgettable surreal visions.
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MICHAEL: A JussPlay LIVE Experience!
2026-08-28 19:30 - 21:30 | Crosstown Arts, The Green Room, 1350 Concourse Ave., Suite 280, Memphis, TN, 38104, United States
MICHAEL: A JussPlay LIVE Experience!
The Green Room at Crosstown Arts
Friday, August 28th, 2026
Doors open at 7:00 pm | Show begins at 7:30 pm
$20 early bird (plus fees) | $25 GA (plus fees) | $30 at the door
PURCHASE TICKETS HERE
Join us for a one-of-a-kind celebration honoring the music, artistry, and legacy of Michael Jackson as we ring in his birthday through the songs that helped define a generation.
MICHAEL: A JussPlay LIVE Experience takes audiences on a musical journey through Michael’s groundbreaking solo albums—Off the Wall, Thriller, and Bad. Performed by a live band, the show reimagines the timeless records that transformed Michael Jackson from a superstar into a cultural phenomenon.
Curated by RealTheWriter and featuring Memphis’s own Teven Lavelle, KRISO, Nick Larsen, Brenae Johnson, and Keri Lee, the evening blends live performance with storytelling, offering a deeper look into the music that continues to inspire artists and fans around the world. Along the way, audiences will discover the brilliance behind Michael’s songwriting, lyrical themes, and creative vision through commentary that explores the meaning and craftsmanship behind select songs.
From chart-topping classics to overlooked treasures, the setlist celebrates the full spectrum of Michael’s artistry. Fans can expect beloved hits alongside album cuts and deep tracks that rarely receive the spotlight—including songs that Michael himself never performed live, now brought to life on stage with a full band.
Whether you’re a lifelong fan or discovering new layers of his catalog, MICHAEL: A JussPlay LIVE Experience is an opportunity to experience Michael Jackson’s music in a fresh, intimate, and unforgettable way.

From iconic favorites to legendary deep cuts and hidden gems—a curated celebration of Michael Jackson, LIVE.

Black Cream Live at the Green Room
2026-08-29 19:30 - 21:30 | Crosstown Arts, The Green Room, 1350 Concourse Ave., Suite 280, Memphis, TN, 38104, United States
Black Cream Live at the Green Room
The Green Room at Crosstown Arts
Saturday, August 29th, 2026
Doors open at 7:00 pm | Show starts at 7:30 pm
$20 in advance (plus fees) | $30 at the door
PURCHASE TICKETS HERE
Black Cream returns to The Green Room at Crosstown Arts for a special hometown performance on August 29, 2026. Known for their electrifying blend of psychedelic soul, blues rock, funk, and improvisational energy, the Memphis based group delivers a live experience rooted in groove, musicianship, and raw chemistry. The evening will also feature a special tribute segment honoring the birthday of Michael Jackson, celebrating the enduring influence of one of music’s greatest innovators through the lens of Black Cream’s signature sound. This one night only performance promises deep Memphis musicianship, powerful originals, unexpected interpretations, and an immersive live show from one of the city’s most dynamic bands.

ABOUT BLACK CREAM:

Hailing from Memphis, Black Cream is a powerhouse trio that defies genre labels while paying homage to the city’s deep musical roots. Comprised of drummer and lead vocalist Chris Barnes, bassist and vocalist Derek Brassel, and guitarist and vocalist Thomas Crivens, Jr. (T.O.), the band weaves together a rich tapestry of R&B, soul, gospel, and rock.

All three members cut their teeth in the church, where Memphis’ tradition of musical excellence shaped their artistry. Now, they blend that foundation with a unique sound that’s equal parts groove, soul, and rocking edge. Black Cream’s electrifying live performances showcase powerful originals, inventive covers, and vocal stylings that evoke everything from vintage Cream to the Isley Brothers, all delivered with a modern twist.

Chris Barnes brings a legacy of gospel music, stemming from his family’s storied past in the genre, and adds an unmistakable authenticity to Black Cream’s vocals and rhythm. Derek Brassel, a seasoned session musician and touring bassist, lends his deep experience and dynamic bass lines, drawing from his time with the B.B. King All Stars and national acts like Everlast. T.O. Crivens Jr., an accomplished session guitarist whose latest work was adding guitar to a track on Anthony Hamilton’s Love is the New Black, adds a fiery, soulful touch to the trio’s sound with his explosive riffs and intricate melodies.

Whether they’re crafting originals or reimagining classics, Black Cream’s approach is organic, raw, and deeply soulful. Their high-energy performances and undeniable chemistry have made them a standout act, proving that this Memphis trio is as rich and dynamic as the city that inspired them.

The Mystic
2026-09-01 18:00 - 19:00, 2026-10-06 18:00 - 19:00, 2026-11-03 18:00 - 19:00, 2026-12-01 18:00 - 19:00, 2027-01-05 18:00 - 19:00, 2027-02-02 18:00 - 19:00, 2027-03-02 18:00 - 19:00, 2027-04-06 18:00 - 19:00 and 1 more date | Crosstown Arts, The Green Room, 1350 Concourse Ave., Suite 280, Memphis, TN, 38104, United States
So, what is The Mystic? The Mystic is a catalyst; through music, story, silence and dialogue, we hope to strengthen our attachment to hopes and dreams. In the mystic, diversity is a prerequisite for all creativity, which is why Crosstown Concourse is the perfect home. In The Mystic, the world is far-better served by different beliefs than it could ever be if limited by rigid uniformity.
And if this doesn’t rock your gypsy soul, the goal of The Mystic is to not feel better but get better at feeling.

Crosstown Arts Film Series Presents: Ernest Cole: Lost and Found
2026-09-03 19:00 - 21:00 | Crosstown Theater, 1350 Concourse Ave., Memphis, TN, 38104, United States
This powerful documentary reexamines the life and work of South African photographer Ernest Cole, whose groundbreaking images exposed the brutal realities of apartheid to the world. Through recovered archives and intimate storytelling, the film restores the legacy of an artist whose vision remains urgent and vital.
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Modern Masters: Jon Cowherd with the Ted Ludwig Trio
2026-09-03 19:30 - 22:00 | Crosstown Arts, The Green Room, 1350 Concourse Ave., Suite 280, Memphis, TN, 38104, United States
Modern Masters: Jon Cowherd with the Ted Ludwig Trio
The Green Room at Crosstown Arts
Thursday, September 3rd, 2026
Doors open at 7:00 PM | Show starts at 7:30 PM
$25 in advance (plus fees) | $35 at the door | $10 student tickets
PURCHASE TICKETS HERE
The Ted Ludwig trio returns to the Green Room stage for the 2026 Modern Masters series, featuring Grammy-nominated pianist and cofounder of the Brian Blade Fellowship Jon Cowherd!
Jon Cowherd is the definition of “a musician’s musician”. While the Kentucky-raised, New Orleans-schooled, New York-honed, and currently Nashville-based Cowherd is best known for his long-running partnership with drummer/bandleader Brian Blade (with whom he co-founded the Grammy nominated Brian Blade and the Fellowship Band), he is equally at ease in the roles of musical director, side man, or studio wizard. Cowherd’s stellar keyboard work and singular compositional skills are driven, simply, by a lifelong drive to “just be a great musician.”
In 2013, ArtistShare and Blue Note records released “Mercy”, Cowherd’s first album as a leader. The record features Bill Frisell, John Patitucci and Brian Blade. Cowherd and Blade also directed the all-star Joni Mitchell tribute “Joni 75” along with such artists as Brandi Carlile, Glen Hansard, Emmylou Harris, Norah Jones, Chaka Khan, Diana Krall, Kris Kristofferson, Los Lobos with Marisoul, Graham Nash, Seal, James Taylor and Rufus Wainwright. In 2017 Cowherd released “Gateway” on the exclusive “vinyl only” Newvelle record label. “Gateway” consists of seven compositions by Cowherd and one from Brian Blade, and features Steve Cardenas and Tony Scherr. As an arranger, Cowherd has scored for big band, strings and symphony orchestra for Brandi Carlile, Cassandra Wilson, Lizz Wright, the Fellowship Band and the Shreveport Symphony and the Loyola University Symphony Orchestra. In 2023 The Jon Cowherd Trio released “Pride & Joy”, featuring John Patitucci, Brian Blade, Chris Potter, and Alex Acuna.

Toby Vest & The Dream Machine with opener Frank McLallen & Extra Eyes
2026-09-04 19:30 - 21:30 | Crosstown Arts, The Green Room, 1350 Concourse Ave., Suite 280, Memphis, TN, 38104, United States
Toby Vest & The Dream Machine with opener Frank McLallen & Extra Eyes
The Green Room at Crosstown Arts
Friday, September 4th, 2026
Doors open at 7:00 pm | Show begins at 7:30 pm
$20 in advance (plus fees) | $30 at the door
PURCHASE TICKETS HERE
Join us as we gather for a special evening with Toby Vest & the Dream Machine supported by Frank McLallen & Extra Eyes opening. The Machine is made up of friends and talented Memphis session players Shawn Zorn (Amy Lavere, Twin Forks, Cory Branan), Krista Wroten (The Hypos, Dead Soldiers), Rick Steff (Lucero), Dirk Kitterlin (Marcella & Her Lovers, Augustine, Nada Bot), Aaron Hanna (Dream Team, Jon Hart & the Vollintines) & Marc Franklin, Art Edmaiston (Greg Allman, Little Feat). You’ll hear melodic pop songs steeped in the flavor of classic 60’s California production–Vest’s classic approach to songwriting and his band’s tight, soulful arrangements supported by orchestral flourishes will immediately welcome you into his lush and loving musical world.
TOBY VEST
Toby Vest is an engineer, producer, songwriter and multi-instrumentalist and has played in and produced many projects in his 20 years in the Memphis music scene. The Memphis songwriter and producer released his new album Minutes Or Millennia via American Grapefruit on 4/24/26.
You may know Vest from his bands Tiger High, The Bulletproof Vests and Augustine, who released multiple records in the first half of the 2010’s. Since then, he has released four albums under his Shadow Brother moniker and 3 albums under his own name. He also co-owns and runs High/Low Recording and has worked with and produced artists from all across the US. Including records by EchoFriendly, Rob Jungklas, Marcella & Her Lovers, Snowglobe, Chris Milam, Dead Soldiers, HEELS, Magic Hours, Jack Oblivian and Myron Elkins to name a few.
His new album, Minutes Or Millennia is a stand-out collection of melodic pop songs are some of Vest’s best and is steeped in the flavor of classic 60’s California production. But this is no throwback record. Vest’s classic approach to songwriting and his band’s tight, soulful arrangements supported by orchestral flourishes immediately welcomes listeners into his lush and loving musical world.
The album features contributions from Vest’s wrecking crew of Memphis session players including Shawn Zorn (Amy Lavere, Twin Forks, Cory Branan), Krista Wroten (The Hypos, Dead Soldiers), Rick Steff (Lucero), Jake Vest (Heat Manager, Tiger High, The Echo Friendly), Stephen Turner (Late Night Cardigan), Marc Franklin, Art Edmaiston (Greg Allman, Little Feat), Elen Wroten, Adam Hill, and Luke White (Snowglobe, Spiral Stairs)

Jeremy Schrader's "Octocats" featuring Saundra Messinger
2026-09-05 19:30 - 21:00 | Crosstown Arts, The Green Room, 1350 Concourse Ave., Suite 280, Memphis, TN, 38104, United States
Jeremy Schrader’s “Octocats” featuring Saundra Messinger
The Green Room at Crosstown Arts
Saturday, September 5th, 2026
Doors open at 7:00 pm | Show starts at 7:30 pm
$20 in advance (plus fees) | $30 at the door
PURCHASE TICKETS HERE
Vocalist and trumpeter Jeremy Shrader brings his big band sound to the Green Room at Crosstown Arts on September 5, 2026. From Sinatra to Satchmo, Jeremy Shrader and his Octocats will be a delight for the ears and feet; if cutting a rug is your thing. There will be plenty of space for dancing, in addition to the casual seating and impeccable sound that the Green Room is famous for. The show will feature special guest vocalist Saundra Messinger, whose sultry and sophisticated ballad stylings add a touch of romance for an unforgettable date night experience. Don’t miss this incredible night of jazz with some of Memphis’ greatest musicians all gathered under one roof.

Crosstown Arts Film Series Presents: The Lovers on the Bridge
2026-09-10 19:00 - 21:00 | Crosstown Theater, 1350 Concourse Ave., Memphis, TN, 38104, United States
Leos Carax’s feverish romantic masterpiece follows two homeless lovers drifting through the nighttime streets of Paris. By turns ecstatic, chaotic, tender, and tragic, the film has become one of the great cult romances of modern cinema, fueled by unforgettable imagery and raw emotional intensity.
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Jazz Jam Session: Hosted by U of M Jazz Singers
2026-09-22 19:30 - 22:00 | Crosstown Arts The Green Room
Jazz Jam Session: Hosted by U of M Jazz Singers
The Green Room @ Crosstown Arts
Tuesday, September 22, 2026
Doors open at 7 pm | Show begins at 7:30 pm
Tickets $7 (plus fees) | Free for participants
PURCHASE TICKETS HER
The Green Room Jazz Jam is a monthly, interactive music event hosted by the Downbeat Award Winning University of Memphis Jazz Singers. Young up-and-coming musicians and local jazz veterans alike join together for spontaneous music making, sharing the stage as they tackle the expansive body of repertoire found within the jazz idiom. The Green Room Jazz Jam strives to provide an inclusive and collaborative environment where jazz musicians of all ages and backgrounds may perform, network, and interact together in the interest of further fostering Memphis’ diverse music scene.

Sanctuary with DJ Brilli and Lana J.
2026-09-25 19:30 - 21:30 | Crosstown Arts, The Green Room, 1350 Concourse Ave., Suite 280, Memphis, TN, 38104, United States
Sanctuary with DJ Brilli and Lana J.
The Green Room at Crosstown Arts
Friday, September 25th, 2026
Doors open at 7:00 pm | Show starts at 7:30 pm
$20 in advance (plus fees) | $30 at the door
PURCHASE TICKETS HERE

Sanctuary is a live sonic experience through sound bath and a live dj set curated with choir vocals and deep grounding elements curated by Lola Nychole aka DJ Brilli accompanied by Lana J.

This is meant to be a grounding and meditative experience with floor seating to bring the audience back into their bodies finding “sanctuary”.
There will also be a set design and decor to provide a safe place embodying tranquility, peace, and balance. This event will be for those who are searching for a sacred space to connect with something higher through themselves—similar to a church service but with music connecting with God through sound and grounding.
There has been nothing like Sanctuary.
Sanctuary provides a safe place for those who need a place to belong and music is a universal language. It’s meant to be healing and transcending.

*Floor seating is suggested as it will be similar to a jazz night with your friends.

Sanctuary with DJ Brilli and Lana J.
2026-09-25 19:30 - 21:30 | Crosstown Arts The Green Room
Sanctuary with DJ Brilli and Lana J.
The Green Room @ Crosstown Arts
Friday, September 25, 2026
Doors open at 7 pm | Show begins at 7:30 pm
Tickets $20 in advance (plus fees) | $30 at the door
PURCHASE TICKETS HERE
Sanctuary is a live sonic experience through sound bath and a live DJ set curated with choir vocals and deep grounding elements curated by Lola Nychole AKA DJ Brilli accompanied by Lana J.
This is meant to be a grounding and meditative experience with floor seating to bring the audience back into their bodies finding “sanctuary”.
There will also be a set design and decor to provide a safe place embodying tranquility, peace, and balance. This event will be for those who are searching for a sacred space to connect with something higher through themselves—similar to a church service but with music connecting with God through sound and grounding.
There has been nothing like Sanctuary.
Sanctuary provides a safe place for those who need a place to belong and music is a universal language. It’s meant to be healing and transcending.
*Floor seating is suggested as it will be similar to a jazz night with your friends.

DJ Brilli known as Lola Nychole is a multi-faceted creative that embodies an open format style. She showcases music in a way that allows her to use her creative direction skills to direct a crowd sonically. Brilli enjoys translating sonic feelings with her controller to influence the crowd to dance, let loose and feel confident through smooth transitions and her carefully curated style.
Lola is a well rounded creative and visual artist who also takes pride in using her artistic abilities to heal her community. In 2025, she hosted “Black Art & Black Medicine” to provide artist the tools to align their creative process with a spiritual process. As a year two public tour docent at Brooks Museum, she values art in all forms and strives to grow her knowledge through fashion design, sonic healing, and creative direction.
Lana J. is a Memphis native, coming from a city known for its soulful music and vibrant culture. At just 13 years old, she was accepted into the incomparable Stax Music Academy, where she honed her skills in songwriting, live performances, production, and recording. Growing up in a church-oriented environment, Lana J. found her passion for music through singing in her hometown church and participating in the school choir. She later joined an all-female a cappella group called “Key of She,” which provided her with opportunities to arrange music, travel, and perform.
After graduating from Loyola University New Orleans with a degree in Popular and Commercial Music, Lana J. began making her mark in the music industry. Her first studio recording collaboration was on the upbeat track “Rendezvous” by D-Bibbs ft. Lana J. This was followed by her debut single “Warning,” which showcased her unique style and artistry. In April 2022, Lana J. released her debut project titled “Breathe,” a soothing and soulful reminder to take a moment for self-care a reenforced theme within her journey as an artist and human, shedding light on mental health awareness and self discovery.
She also collaborated with classmate and producer/artsit Soto on the funky and psychedelic track “SexFruit,” which originated from her time at Loyola University. As Lana J.’s career progressed, she delved deeper into her thoughts and aspirations in the studio, exploring vocal production, songwriting, and recording techniques. This year marks the beginning of a creative renaissance for Lana J. as she prepares to release her next project, including the single “Take it Slow” and an EP scheduled for Summer 2024. Exciting collaborations with talented musicians and artists in her community are on the horizon, further fueling Lana J.’s artistic journey.

Modern Masters: Troy Roberts with the Ted Ludwig Trio
2026-10-03 19:30 - 22:00 | Crosstown Arts, The Green Room, 1350 Concourse Ave., Suite 280, Memphis, TN, 38104, United States
Modern Masters: Troy Roberts with the Ted Ludwig Trio
The Green Room at Crosstown Arts
Saturday, October 3rd, 2026
Doors open at 7:00 PM | Show starts at 7:30 PM
$25 in advance (plus fees) | $30 at the door | $10 student tickets
PURCHASE TICKETS HERE

The Ted Ludwig trio returns to the Green Room stage for the 2026 Modern Masters series, featuring saxophone titan Troy Roberts!

TROY ROBERTS
Embracing his love for a vast variety of stylistic genres, three-time GRAMMY nominated saxophonist, Troy Roberts is quickly becoming one of the most widely recorded touring artists of his time. As a go-to first call saxophonist, his name adorns several essential recordings ranging from the legendary Joey DeFrancesco to the iconic Van Morrison to the quintessential Jeff “Tain” Watts, to the tireless Orrin Evans Captain Black Big Band, to the critically acclaimed Kurt Elling, to the breathtaking Veronica Swift, including numerous other jazz veterans, and newcomers considered taste-makers of their generation.

Roberts, a New York City based Australian immigrant, is also a prolific leader with sixteen releases to his name. Currently celebrating his latest, Green Lights (Toy Robot Music) featuring John Patitucci, Paul Bollenback and Jimmy Macbride, Roberts maintains a busy recording and performance schedule with his quartet, his original project Nu-Jive, as well as some of the greatest artists of today.

Hannibal Buress
2026-10-04 19:00 - 22:00 | Crosstown Theater, 1350 Concourse Ave., Memphis, TN, 38104, United States
Hannibal Buress
The Crosstown Arts Theater
Sunday, October 4th, 2026
Doors open at 6:30 PM | Show starts at 7:00 PM
Orchestra Seating $42 in advance (plus fees)
General Admission $35 in advance (plus fees)
Tickets go on sale June 30th!
PURCHASE TICKETS HERE

Coming to the Crosstown Theater stage is comedian Hannibal Buress!

Hannibal Buress is a powerhouse of comedy, television, and film. From writing for Saturday Night Live and 30 Rock to starring in blockbusters like Neighbors and Spider-Man, Buress has spent over two decades cementing his status as an entertainment icon. Don’t miss a night of sharp wit and brilliant storytelling from one of the industry’s most versatile creators.

About Hannibal
From within the bustling heart of the Windy City, a comedian named Hannibal Buress embarked upon his journey. The year was 2002, the location, the Big Muddy Room at Southern Illinois University. Guided by the wisdom of his friend Chidi and sharpened in the fires of Tony Trimm’s “Sunday School sessions,” young Buress was prepared to take the comedy world by storm.
In 2006, he emerged from the shadows, performing at Montreal’s ‘Just for Laughs’ New Faces, an event that led to his first international appearance on “Late Night with Jörgen Raymann” in Holland. From that moment, he continued to grow, creating a series of successful stand-up specials including “Animal Furnace,” “Live From Chicago,” “Hannibal Takes Edinburgh,” “Comedy Camisado,” and “Miami Nights”.
Fate intervened in 2009, when a last-minute booking on “Late Night with Jimmy Fallon” led to a meeting with Seth Meyers. This encounter gave him the opportunity to write for the legendary show “Saturday Night Live.” It was there, my young turtles, where Buress had one sketch air – a moment he credits to the creativity of his cousin Percy. He cherishes the memory of watching Rihanna uttering his lines in the “Shy Ronnie” sketch. After a season there, he moved to “30 Rock,” filling the space left vacant by the departure of Donald Glover.
In the realm of film, Buress has proven his versatility, showcasing his talents in “Neighbors,” “Neighbors 2,” “Baywatch,” “Daddy’s Home,” “Spiderman: Homecoming,” “Spiderman: Far From Home,” and “Tag.” He also provided a memorable performance as Lincoln the dentist on “Broad City” and lent his voice to animations like “The Secret Life of Pets” and “The Angry Birds Movie.”
From 2009 to 2017, Buress held court at the “Comedy at the Knitting Factory,” his charm and wit making an indelible mark on late-night television, featuring on shows such as “David Letterman,” “Conan,” “Stephen Colbert,” and “The Daily Show with Trevor Noah.”
In 2022, he underwent a transformation, shedding his skin to become Eshu Tune in the world of music. His rhythmic anthems like “Veneers remix” with Danny Brown and Paul Wall, the lively bowling song “1-3 Pocket,” and the meticulously crafted “I Lift Weights” echo through the streets. This endeavor was made possible through collaborations with creative minds like Kiefer, Tru, Eshu Tune, Wahsabi Papi, Kenny Segal, Eryn Allen Kane, and Haile Supreme. Through these transformations, Hannibal Buress remains a true warrior in the world of entertainment.

John Németh
2026-10-08 19:30 - 21:00 | Crosstown Arts, The Green Room, 1350 Concourse Ave., Suite 280, Memphis, TN, 38104, United States
John Németh
The Green Room at Crosstown Arts
Thursday, October 8th, 2026
Doors open at 7:00 pm | Show starts at 7:30 pm
$25 in advance (plus fees) | $30 at the door
PURCHASE TICKETS HERE

John Németh is a showman, songwriter, vocalist, harmonica player and award winning recording artist. Steeped in the blues, Németh is mentored by Gene Harris, Elvin Bishop, Gary Nicholson, Junior Watson and Anson Funderburgh. He is a Grammy-nominated and six time BMA (Blues Music Award) winner in the categories of artist, album, vocalist and instrumentalist of the year. Németh has been making a living with his talents since the age of sixteen, delighting audiences around the world. He has released eight critically acclaimed studio albums, three live albums and guest performed on albums with James Cotton, Joe Bonamassa, and Elvin Bishop.

Famed blues journalist and Muddy Water’s guitarist Bob Marglolin said “I remember telling friends up North in ’80 that they should go see Stevie Ray Vaughan, but they weren’t impressed because he wasn’t famous yet. It will give me great pleasure to say, ‘I told you so!’ about John Németh. You’ll see.” ~Blues Review Magazine

Caroline Davis: Solo
2026-10-09 19:30 - 22:00 | Crosstown Arts, The Green Room, 1350 Concourse Ave., Suite 280, Memphis, TN, 38104, United States
Caroline Davis: Solo
The Green Room at Crosstown Arts
Friday, October 9th, 2026
Doors open at 7:00 PM | Show starts at 7:30 PM
$20 in advance (plus fees) | $30 at the door
PURCHASE TICKETS HERE

Caroline Davis explores sonic textures offered by interactive technologies, sharing sounds from the saxophone that she considers to be distinctive and quirky. Her solo performances are chosen spontaneously, given the atmosphere of the room and the people present.
She makes use of Pure Data patches developed by the open sources community surrounding the Organelle (the technobear, shreeswifty, critterandguitari, tony j morton, nobuyasu sakonda, soxsa, varicela, nicky-system, samesimilar, and chrisk).
The music during this performance will pull from Caroline’s recent solo album, Fallows, created during a time of rest on land in Ucross, Wyoming. Bell hooks was a constant source of inspiration during this time, through the following ideas: love as a practice of freedom, radical openness, maintenance of commitment, using community as a means of escape, belief in one’s capacity to transform, what it means to listen, and eliminating elimination.

Caroline Davis is a Brooklyn-based saxophonist, composer, and activist, whose work is driven by a desire for connection and a belief in music’s capacity to expand listeners’ ears, minds, and hearts. A 2025 Guggenheim Fellow in Composition, she is the recipient of the DownBeat Critics Poll Alto Saxophone Rising Star Award, as well as fellowships from NYFA, the Jerome Foundation, Chamber Music America, and the Foundation for Contemporary Arts. Her residencies include MacDowell, The Jazz Gallery, Civitella, and the Rockefeller Estate, and she has served as a mentor for New Music USA’s Next Jazz Legacy program.
Davis’s work spans a wide range of creative contexts, rooted in improvisation and social inquiry. She has released eight albums as a leader and collaborated with artists such as Allison Miller, Lee Konitz, John Zorn, Angelica Sanchez, The Femme Jam, Miles Okazaki, Nicole Mitchell, Rajna Swaminathan, and Matt Mitchell. Her most recent release, Portals, explores themes of grief and memory, and she is also a contributor to Terri Lyne Carrington’s New Standards, a landmark collection of jazz compositions by female-identifying composers.
In addition to her work as a performer and composer, Davis is a dedicated educator, teaching courses on gender in jazz at The New School and maintaining a private studio at the Manhattan School of Music. Her artistic practice is deeply intertwined with advocacy, including work for gender equity through This Is A Movement, and for current and formerly incarcerated individuals through initiatives such as Justice for Keith LaMar, Freer Records, Keys Beats Bars, and Creative Beyond Incarceration.

Folk All Y'all: Roberta Lea
2026-10-10 19:30 - 21:00 | Crosstown Arts, The Green Room, 1350 Concourse Ave., Suite 280, Memphis, TN, 38104, United States
Folk All Y’all: Roberta Lea
The Green Room at Crosstown Arts
Saturday, October 10th, 2026
Doors open at 7:00 pm | Show begins at 7:30 pm
Tickets $20
PURCHASE TICKETS HERE
American Songwriter Magazine describes Roberta Lea (she/her) as “a compelling artist” while The Nashville Scene praises her ability to “score hits with her catchy, textured and beautifully sung originals.” The award-winning singer/songwriter released her debut album “Too Much of a Woman” to critical acclaim and punctuated her presence in the industry with a coast-to-coast tour.
Described as “country-neo-pop” with a “delicious, folky flare”, the Virginia native is known as a powerful songwriter and engaging storyteller. Listeners turned fans describe her style as one that fits comfortably between Shania Twain’s fun and catchy pop-country singles and Tracy Chapman’s heavy-weight, cinematic chokeholds.
As a touring member of The Black Opry, one of CMT’s Next Women of Country, and a voting member of The Recording Academy, Lea’s star continues to rise and we’re so excited to watch her shine!

Jazz Jam Session: Hosted by Victor Sawyer
2026-10-13 19:30 - 22:00 | Crosstown Arts The Green Room
Jazz Jam Session: Hosted by Victor Sawyer
The Green Room @ Crosstown Arts
Tuesday, October 13, 2026
Doors open at 7 pm | Show begins at 7:30 pm
Tickets $7 (plus fees) | Free for participants
PURCHASE TICKETS HER
The Green Room Jazz Jam is a monthly, interactive music event hosted by Victor Sawyer. Young up-and-coming musicians and local jazz veterans alike join together for spontaneous music making, sharing the stage as they tackle the expansive body of repertoire found within the jazz idiom. The Green Room Jazz Jam strives to provide an inclusive and collaborative environment where jazz musicians of all ages and backgrounds may perform, network, and interact together in the interest of further fostering Memphis’ diverse music scene.

Modern Masters: Rodney Jordan with the Ted Ludwig Trio
2026-11-05 19:30 - 22:00 | Crosstown Arts, The Green Room, 1350 Concourse Ave., Suite 280, Memphis, TN, 38104, United States
Modern Masters: Rodney Jordan with the Ted Ludwig Trio
The Green Room at Crosstown Arts
Thursday, November 5th, 2026
Doors open at 7:00 PM | Show starts at 7:30 PM
$25 in advance (plus fees) | $30 at the door | $10 student tickets
PURCHASE TICKETS HERE

The Ted Ludwig trio returns to the Green Room stage for the 2026 Modern Masters series, featuring bass great Rodney Jordan!

RODNEY JORDAN
Rodney Jordan is a native of Memphis, Tennessee where he grew up playing the bass in church and with his high school orchestra. He later studied music with Dr. London Branch, Alvin Fielder, and Andy Hardwick at Jackson State University in Jackson, Mississippi. During his college years, Jordan joined the Mississippi Symphony Orchestra where he served as Assistant Principal Bassist. After graduating, he became Chair of the String Department at the Dougherty County Public School and served as Principal Bassist with the Albany Symphony Orchestra in Albany, GA. Teaching has always been an important part of Mr. Jordan’s life and career. In addition to teaching strings in Dougherty County, he also taught in the DeKalb County School Systems.
During his years in Georgia, Jordan served as a bass instructor at Darton College (part of the University System of Georgia) in Albany and at Georgia State University in Atlanta. While living in Atlanta, Jordan became one of the city’s most active jazz bassists, performing and recording with some of America’s finest jazz musicians, including Marcus Printup, Mulgrew Miller, James Williams, Milt Jackson, George Coleman, and Russell Gunn. He joined the faculty in the School of Music at Florida State University in Tallahassee, FL in 2001 where he now holds a rank of Associate Professor of Jazz Studies. Jordan teaches jazz bass, jazz combo playing, music education classes, and a jazz styles class.

Jordan joined the Marcus Roberts Trio in 2009. It was evident during that first official performance of the newly-formed trio at the prestigious Wigmore Hall in London that Jordan thoroughly understood Roberts’ unique trio conception. Rodney Jordan is one of the most versatile jazz bassists on the scene today. His tone is rich and soulful when he plays hauntingly beautiful phrases with the bow. Just as readily, he plays fast virtuosic passages with apparent effortless skill. Jordan’s knowledge of harmony from his classical bass training combined with the relentless feeling of swing in his playing is a perfect fit for the powerful melodic, blues-based, syncopated improvisational sound of the Marcus Roberts Trio.

Victory Boyd
2026-11-07 19:30 - 22:00 | Crosstown Arts, The Green Room, 1350 Concourse Ave., Suite 280, Memphis, TN, 38104, United States
Victory Boyd
The Green Room at Crosstown Arts
Saturday, November 7th, 2026
Doors open at 7:00 PM | Show starts at 7:30 PM
$20 in advance (plus fees) | $30 at the door
PURCHASE TICKETS HERE

A Grammy Award-winning singer, songwriter, and producer, Victory Boyd has emerged as one of the most compelling artists of her generation, blending gospel, soul, folk, and spiritual reflection into a sound that feels both timeless and profoundly intimate.

Victory Boyd is a musical storyteller whose raw, soulful and deeply spiritual songs feel like prayers. Raised in Detroit to a family of nine musicians, her sound blends gospel, jazz, folk, and R&B with cinematic atmosphere and divine intent. After performing with her siblings to New York City audiences and gaining viral recognition, she and her family were signed by Jay-Z to Roc Nation in 2017. However, it was clear Victory’s voice had the strength to stand on its own.

Her debut solo album The Broken Instrument (2018) showcases her artistry and won her acclaim, leading to collaborations with Kanye West (Jesus Is King) and serving as the opening act for Lauryn Hill, among others, on their respective tours. Her 2023 album Glory Hour merges tradition with modern textures and reflective lyrics, proving that spiritual music doesn’t need to follow the rules to carry divine weight. Her upcoming project dives into themes of love, grief, and healing, allowing her versatility as a writer to shine. With every release, Victory pushes genre boundaries, aiming to stir the soul and leave a lasting emotional impact.

Jazz Jam Session: Hosted by the Alex Upton Quartet
2026-11-17 19:30 - 22:00 | Crosstown Arts The Green Room
Jazz Jam Session: Hosted by the Alex Upton Quartet
The Green Room @ Crosstown Arts
Tuesday, November 17th, 2026
Doors open at 7 pm | Show begins at 7:30 pm
Tickets $7 (plus fees) | Free for participants
PURCHASE TICKETS HERE
The Green Room Jazz Jam is a monthly, interactive music event hosted by the Alex Upton Quartet. Young up-and-coming musicians and local jazz veterans alike join together for spontaneous music making, sharing the stage as they tackle the expansive body of repertoire found within the jazz idiom. The Green Room Jazz Jam strives to provide an inclusive and collaborative environment where jazz musicians of all ages and backgrounds may perform, network, and interact together in the interest of further fostering Memphis’ diverse music scene.
Alex Upton is a Memphis-based saxophonist, composer, and educator with a deep passion for musics both old and new. Alex is a nationally awarded soloist that has performed and recorded with artists such as Rahsaan Barber, Rachel Therrien, Ted Ludwig, Baron Tymas, Stephen Anderson, and James Sexton. Awarded first prize in the 2022 North American Saxophone Alliance Jazz Artist Competition, Alex has performed at both JEN and NASA Conferences, and has performed at regionally renowned venues including the Brooks Museum of Art, Crosstown Arts Green Room, Durham’s Sharp Nine Gallery, and Bond Brothers Eastside. Their work as a performer and composer is featured on Summit Records with the 360 Jazz Initiative, and under their own name on their newest full-length album release “Portraits of a Silent Moment”.

Jazz Jam Session: Hosted by the Alex Upton Quartet
2026-12-08 19:30 - 22:00 | Crosstown Arts The Green Room
Jazz Jam Session: Hosted by the Alex Upton Quartet
The Green Room @ Crosstown Arts
Tuesday, December 8th, 2026
Doors open at 7 pm | Show begins at 7:30 pm
Tickets $7 (plus fees) | Free for participants
PURCHASE TICKETS HERE
The Green Room Jazz Jam is a monthly, interactive music event hosted by the Alex Upton Quartet. Young up-and-coming musicians and local jazz veterans alike join together for spontaneous music making, sharing the stage as they tackle the expansive body of repertoire found within the jazz idiom. The Green Room Jazz Jam strives to provide an inclusive and collaborative environment where jazz musicians of all ages and backgrounds may perform, network, and interact together in the interest of further fostering Memphis’ diverse music scene.
Alex Upton is a Memphis-based saxophonist, composer, and educator with a deep passion for musics both old and new. Alex is a nationally awarded soloist that has performed and recorded with artists such as Rahsaan Barber, Rachel Therrien, Ted Ludwig, Baron Tymas, Stephen Anderson, and James Sexton. Awarded first prize in the 2022 North American Saxophone Alliance Jazz Artist Competition, Alex has performed at both JEN and NASA Conferences, and has performed at regionally renowned venues including the Brooks Museum of Art, Crosstown Arts Green Room, Durham’s Sharp Nine Gallery, and Bond Brothers Eastside. Their work as a performer and composer is featured on Summit Records with the 360 Jazz Initiative, and under their own name on their newest full-length album release “Portraits of a Silent Moment”.
