Meet the Host
Two-time Grammy and Stellar Award–nominated saxophonist Marcus Anderson is a musical force whose electrifying blend of soul, jazz, R&B, pop, rock, and funk has captivated audiences worldwide. With 18 studio albums, five Billboard #1 hits, and countless chart-toppers on both Billboard’s Smooth Jazz and SiriusXM’s Watercolors, Anderson has firmly established himself as one of the most dynamic and versatile musicians of his generation.
A native of Spartanburg, South Carolina, Anderson’s career reached stratospheric heights when he toured with the late, legendary Prince and the New Power Generation. His collaboration with Prince included standout performances on Hit N Run Phase 2, where his artistry shines on tracks like “Revelation” and “Look at Me Look at You.” Over the years, he’s graced stages with icons including Stevie Wonder, CeeLo Green, Judith Hill, Sheila E., Brian Culbertson, Lalah Hathaway, Eric Benét, Jennifer Holliday, Bobby Caldwell, Anthony Hamilton, and Miguel—earning his reputation as the “golden child shining among stars.”
Whether performing for dignitaries like President Barack Obama, Reverend Jesse Jackson, and Secretary Hillary Clinton, or igniting crowds at world-renowned festivals such as the Essence Music Festival, Catalina Island JazzTrax Festival, Seabreeze Jazz Fest, NAPA Valley Getaway, the Dave Koz Cruise, and the Jazz Legacy Foundation, Anderson’s shows are nothing short of unforgettable! With his band, The Creatives, he delivers high-spirited, magnetic performances that transcend genres and defy expectations, making him a festival favorite and a household name among jazz lovers. His television appearances on The Tonight Show, Jimmy Kimmel Live!, Jimmy Fallon, and Arsenio Hall have further solidified his place in the spotlight.
Beyond his musical achievements, Anderson is a visionary entrepreneur. For over a decade, he’s been the proud founder of AND Coffee, a premium coffee brand that inspired the creation of the Jazz AND Coffee Escape Festival—the first of its kind. Launched in 2019, this immersive music and coffee experience draws fans from all over.
Always pushing creative boundaries, Anderson became the first jazz artist in history to create his own comic book and animated series, The Creatives, expanding his artistry into the worlds of storytelling and animation. His deep commitment to community shines through the Marcus Anderson Foundation (MAF), which fosters a harmonious society through live music, education, and leadership development.
Guided by his father’s words, “Work smarter, not harder,” Marcus Anderson continues to redefine what it means to be an artist, entrepreneur, and cultural innovator—leaving audiences inspired, energized, and always wanting more.
Taste The Music!
