Crosstown Arts

Join us for an intimate night in the Green Room with songstress phenom Keia Johnson. With a mix of original music, R&B classics, Nu Soul charm, and as always, a few surprise; this is a show you don't want to miss. After living in London for a year, writing a musical and working with countless Performing Arts groups, she's finally ready to return to the stage herself in her unique way. Come expecting to feel good, dance a little bit, sing along and just vibe.

Keia was born in San Antonio, TX but grew up all over the world in a Military family. Keia listened to a wide range of artists. But it was the move to Memphis that helped her establish her sound and performance style. She has performed with some of the best talent Memphis has to offer, while also building relationships with notable national names like The Bar-Kays and David Porter of Stax Records. In 2016, the world seemed to open up for Keia as she was selected for the legendary BB King Allstar band that travelled the world on Holland America Cruise lines singing Blues, Rock and Roll, Jazz, Classic R&B and Soul. Back at home in Memphis, she was awarded Actress of the Year award (2016) from the “Diversity on Stage & Film” committee as well as being featured in a new independent film “Verge” that showcases local indie Artists from Memphis, TN. She has recently received her Master of Art in Musical Theatre from the University of London, Goldsmith's. To find out more head to her website at keiajohnson.com

This is an all ages event

Storia

Keia Johnson 

Gigs

Memphis

The Green Room at Crosstown Arts

Alex Greene and the Rolling Head Orchestra, Memphis' most adept practitioners of the cinematic live score, join forces with the great Tav Falco to interpret his filmic troika, The Urania Trilogy. Shot in Austria, the semi-silent film was "made for those hungry to submerge themselves in Orphic mysteries...It explores myth, memory, and identity through dreamlike structures - evoking shifting realities where the past overtakes the present, and the present overtakes the past, while already hurling itself into the future."

Greene and RHO are well-versed in scoring silent classics, from Aelita, Queen of Mars to The Cameraman to Häxan, all with Greene's original cinematic jazz compositions. The orchestra features some of Memphis' finest players of both straight ahead and out jazz, and includes one of the region's premier theremin players, Kate Tayler.

Falco is touring the world with The Urania Trilogy, with screenings in New York, London, Madrid, and beyond. Now he brings his vision back to where it all began, in Memphis, where his unapproachable Panther Burns were born nearly half a century ago. Always a compelling visual artist, Falco has, over recent years, perfected this mysterious film that could have been made anytime between 1927 and tomorrow. Now, teaming up with Greene, an erstwhile Panther Burn himself, the film combines Falco's vision with the power of live music and Greene's haunting compositions.

The Urania Trilogy by Tav Falco, with an original live score by Alex Greene & the Rolling Head Orchestra

Alex Greene & the Rolling Head Orchestra - Speak Easy Serenade

Crosstown Theater

**Kathy Zhou** and **Aybil** cordially invite you to their evening reverie. Through spellbinding performances by candlelight, Kathy and Aybil share a night of riveting tales, heartfelt storytelling, and community connection through song. Each musician will perform a stripped-down set of their songs, interweaving the stories behind their music and how each composition came to be. Come join us for an unforgettable, intimate evening full of close audience interactions interspersed with deep, heartfelt music meant to unify, spark dialogue, and nurture connection.

**Kathy Zhou** is a genre-bending, piano-powered, singer-songwriter whose music incorporates traces of art pop, baroque folk, theatre, and classical. Her work has been described as “mesmerizing,” evoking the feeling of being on a stormy island, in a colorful nightmare, or in a dramatic storybook. Her live performances are vivid and magical, like if Regina Spektor played in a coffee shop with a fantasy-cinematic twist. From her very first note, Kathy conveys that something magical and wondrous is happening. Each song is like its own little dramatic play with compelling emotional arcs that sometimes fall into a dreamlike stream of consciousness. Audiences have repeatedly stated that “no one else sounds like her,” as Kathy has carved a style that is uniquely her own. In 2023, Kathy’s music video to her song, “Strange Child,” was in the international Indie Memphis Film Festival. Kathy’s upcoming work, “A Vivid, Magic, Scene,” is a collection of songs about processing the past and coming to terms with the present, drawing upon nature/fantasy themes.

**Aybil** (pronounced Abel) is a Memphis born singer, songwriter, observer, and peacemaker. Writing since an early age, she works to express the beauty of joy, sadness and the moments in the middle. Since making her debut in 2020 with the haunting, introspective single “Jordan Poole”, Aybil has continued to self-release genre-blending projects rooted in a love for storytelling. Her sound draws comparisons to the inspiring soulful stylings of Bill Withers and India Arie, while maintaining a vision all her own.

Audiences can expect an unforgettable night marked by emotionally stirring instrumentation, raw vocals and authentic lyricism.

Kathy Zhou and Aybil: "REVERIE"

**Above Jupiter** celebrate the release of their full-length album 'Abscission' along with Memphis indie rock favorites **the Narrows**. The new vinyl album will be hot off the press and available at the show.

Contemporary alt-rock band **Above Jupiter** is back with their second full-length album, and first after signing with Red Curtain Records. Described by The Memphis Flyer as “a beat-driven soundscape with equal parts slashing guitar, skronky synth, and cool singing that lives in a kind of timeless pop utopia,” 'Abscission' expands on the sound of their self-titled debut with elements of lofi, R&B, nu-jazz, and progressive influences. The result is a more mature sound, which says a lot about a band whose members are all still in high school.

'Abscission' is a conceptual album that tells the story of main characters Eleanor, McNeil, Evergreen, and Elise, with each song offering a view into the Shakespearean-style tragedy that unfolds as the album progresses. A special edition of the lilac-colored vinyl LP includes a zine booklet that tells the story through lyrics, paintings, and prose.

Departing from their first LP’s home studio produced approach, the band knew these songs would benefit from the analog warmth of a professional studio, and they found the perfect home at Memphis Magnetic Recording Co. All songs were tracked live in the room using the studio’s collection of vintage instruments, giving the album a timeless sound that complements the craftsmanship of Above Jupiter’s songs.

Above Jupiter: "Abscission" Record Release Show (+ opener The Narrows)

Two-step into a new golden era of music with **Kortland Whalum**. His vocal styling is influenced by soul, jazz, and R&B while possessing a rich, classy elegance with a powerful, often gospel-tinged, vocal delivery. Immerse yourself in his captivating, sultry vocals reimagining timeless soul classics alongside fresh contemporary gems. This performance not only promises musical magic but also marks Kortland’s growing footprint in the Memphis arts scene.

Joining Kortland this concert:

Keys - Calvin Barnes

Guitar - JB Brownlee

Bass - Loren Clark

Drums - Henry Conerway III

Kortland Whalum

What if music could help you feel better—body and mind?

Welcome to **Concerts for Well-Being**, where beautiful music meets the science of sound’s power to restore, uplift, and inspire. Created by the Ozmo Institute for Neuroaesthetics and guided by its founder, Dr. Žak Ozmo, these events invite you to slow down, listen deeply, and experience how music can transform how we feel.

Each concert blends world-class performances with moments of reflection, mindfulness, and connection. You’ll hear timeless works—from the serenity of Baroque harmonies to the passion of Romantic melodies—performed with warmth and care.

Whether you’re a lifelong music lover or simply seeking an hour of peace, these concerts offer a chance to unwind, reset, and rediscover the healing power of music. Take a breath, open your ears, and let music do what it does best—bring us back to ourselves.

**Diamond Strings: A Concert for Well-Being**

Yennifer Correia, violin

Barrie Cooper, violin

Aaron Tubergen, viola

Estefan Perez, cello

Formed by violinist Yennifer Correia, Diamond Strings unites four outstanding musicians from the Memphis Symphony Orchestra who share a passion for music that touches the heart. What began as a personal project among friends has grown into a vibrant ensemble known for performances that combine artistry, sincerity, and joy.

In this Concert for Well-Being, Diamond Strings explores music across centuries—from the serenity of Bach to the emotion of Brahms—in a program designed to calm the mind, awaken the senses, and remind us how deeply sound connects us all.

Step inside, let the music unfold, and leave feeling a little lighter.

Presented by the **Ozmo Institute for Neuroaesthetics**

In partnership with **Crosstown Arts**

Ozmo Institute’s Concerts for Well-Being: Diamond Strings

Beloved Memphis singer-songwriter, Mark Edgar Stuart, joins The Blueshift Ensemble once again for his 4th Annual Christmas Show! It will be another unforgettable evening of songs, stories, symphonic sounds, and shenanigans. Special guests will include Bailey Bigger, Alexis Grace, Wyly Bigger plus live analog visual effects by Infinity Stairs!

You’ll have a tough time finding a more widely-embraced modern singer-songwriter in Memphis. Quick-witted and empathetic, aloof but probably alert of the room tone, most folks will find themselves compatible with Mark Edgar Stuart. His musicality and honest voice showcase a resilient and relaxed artist, both sage and seasoned. John Prine even admiringly referred to him as the “Remote Control Guy” when they met, a nod of approval for one of Stuart’s signature songs. Grammy-winning music writer/director Robert Gordon is a big fan, often spinning Mark's tracks on his weekly radio show, and other critics agree: “His acerbic wit is reminiscent of Randy Newman” (No Depression); “Always maintaining a tender demeanor, his songwriting is smart as it is sincere” (Pop Matters); “His wry, cutting view of the world makes something old new again” (Paste Magazine); "Damn fine songwriter" (Arkansas Times)

Mark Edgar Stuart & The Blueshift Ensemble w/ special guests Bailey Bigger, Alexis Grace, & Infinity Stairs

Experience the power and spirit of Memphis gospel as The Jubilee Hummingbirds and Elizabeth King share the stage for a night of sacred soul and jubilee harmonies fit for the Christmas season.

The Jubilee Hummingbirds, founded in the 1940s by Clarence Johnson, are one of Memphis’s longest-running gospel groups. Known for their energetic jubilee singing style, the group has deep roots in gospel history—early members included future soul greats like James Carr and O.V. Wright. Today, under the leadership of William “Redd” Watson, the Hummingbirds carry forward their rich tradition with timeless passion and uplifting sound.

Elizabeth King, a powerhouse of Memphis sacred soul, has been performing since the 1960s. With her resonant contralto voice and unwavering devotion, she has led congregations, inspired audiences, and shared her message of faith and perseverance on gospel radio for decades.

Listen for the “soul of sound at the Crosstown,” and join us for a night of authentic Memphis gospel that celebrates the season!

Gospel Talk "Christmas Revue" feat. Elizabeth King, The Jubilee Hummingbirds, and Vintage Souls

Join Grammy-winning saxophonist **Kirk Whalum** for **Kafé Kirk**, an ongoing jazz series in Crosstown Theater featuring musical and spiritual collaborations with special guest artists. This concert will feature jazz pianist and singer, **Kandace Springs**, and the opener will feature 2025 Essentially Ellington Champions, **Central High School Jazz Band**.

**Kandace Springs**

Nashville may be the heart of country music, but it also birthed jazz pianist and singer Kandace Springs, whose soulful lyricism and raw talent have carried her from parking cars to performing at major venues worldwide. Raised by her father, a backup singer for legends like Aretha Franklin, Kandace’s musical journey began when she taught herself jazz and classical standards by ear, later finding inspiration in artists like Ella Fitzgerald and Norah Jones. Despite working as a hotel parking attendant, her breakthrough came after her father passed her demo to industry insiders, leading to a partnership with hitmakers Evan Rogers and Carl Sturken. A pivotal audition with Don Was at Blue Note Records, followed by Prince’s mentorship, helped shape her unique sound. Her debut single, "Love Got In The Way," landed her national TV appearances, and her collaboration with Prince further solidified her place in the music world. Her 2016 album Soul Eyes earned worldwide acclaim, and in the years following, Kandace performed on prestigious stages, including with Sting and Jack White. The pandemic led her to explore other passions like vintage car restoration, but music soon called her back. In tribute to her late father, she released Run Your Race, her most personal work to date. Now, Kandace is preparing for a new chapter with Lady in Satin, a stunning homage to Billie Holiday, recorded with a 60-piece orchestra—a project she describes as one of the most incredible musical experiences of her life.

Kafé Kirk: Kirk Whalum & Kandace Springs

Kirk Whalum

Kandace Springs

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".

Listed below are the jam tunes for the month of December. Participants are encouraged to learn several of the included tunes ahead of time in preparation for the jam. A limited number of blank slots for tune suggestions will be available at the sign-in desk.

DECEMBER TUNES LIST:

*Coming Soon!*

"Holiday" Jazz Jam Session: Hosted by the Alex Upton Quartet 

Alex Upton - Time is the Enemy

Alex Upton - Time is the Enemy (feat. Rahsaan Barber)

Join us for a night of soulful, folky, and impactful music as roots-rock guitarist and singer Luke Winslow-King takes the stage in the Crosstown Arts Green Room. As if that weren't enough, the show will also feature Memphis' very own Jeremy Stanfill as opener. Don't miss this one-night only nexus between two brilliant performers and songwriters; get your tickets now!

**LUKE WINSLOW-KING:**

Originally from Cadillac, Michigan, Luke Winslow-King conjures a soulful tapestry that fuses delta blues, roots-rock, and folk music. His sound is characterized by masterful slide guitar work, captivating lyrics, and highlighted by a burgundy voice that resonates with earned authenticity.

During his 15 years in New Orleans. Luke studied composition at The University of New Orleans, debuted his 2008 album Old-New Baby, was named ‘Best Blues Artist’ by Gambit Magazine, and released his 2018 hit, ‘I’m Glad Trouble Don’t Last Always’ that has now received over 11 million streams on Spotify. He was elected a voting member of the Grammy Recording Academy in 2022.

**JEREMY STANFILL:**

Jeremy Stanfill, hailing from Memphis, Tennessee, is a multi-instrumentalist and dedicated songwriter whose musical journey began watching his father play drums. With a lifelong passion for music, Jeremy channels his rich experiences and emotions into heartfelt lyrics and melodies that deeply resonate with listeners. His career has been marked by both local acclaim and international tours, where his music, infused with passion, honest storytelling, intricate melodies, and creative recording techniques, captivates audiences worldwide. Jeremy’s path hasn’t been without challenges; he courageously battled alcoholism, achieving seven years of sobriety, and faced the profound loss of his mother—experiences that brought him to a personal crossroads. Despite these trials, Jeremy’s music remains a testament to resilience and hope, reflecting his unwavering curiosity about life and his profound connection to the vibrant energy of city streets.

Luke Winslow-King Duo (+ opener Jeremy Stanfill)

In early 2025, online discourse reignited a long-standing conversation about the state of the Memphis R&B scene—and, more broadly, the misconception that Memphis music exists in only one lane. The truth is far richer: Memphis is home to a dynamic spectrum of sound, from alternative to traditional genres, each brimming with artistry, identity, and cultural weight. For those who claim they can only hear one genre, they simply aren’t listening closely enough. This show sets out to change that.

At the center of this moment is Trinity Adair, a Nashville-raised singer-songwriter and recent University of Memphis Music Business graduate whose Memphis journey has been defined by passion, curiosity, and community. Trinity has already left her mark on the city—hosting the weekly radio show For the Gworlz on 91.7 FM WYXR, collaborating with a diverse roster of local artists, and contributing her talents to the historic Overton Park Shell.

With the recent debut of her vulnerable, mental-health-centered single “I’m Not Fine,” Trinity steps confidently into her next chapter, gearing up for the release of her first EP this spring. This performance not only highlights her evolution as an artist but also stands as a testament to the breadth of Memphis music today—vibrant, multifaceted, and impossible to box in.

This show doesn’t just entertain; it proves a point: Memphis music is alive, expansive, and more diverse than ever.

"Memphis R&B Is Not Dead" with Trinity Adair & Phillip Bond

Breathe, Relax, and Listen deeply as you immerse yourself into a vibrational soundscape.

Sean “1Breath” Murphy weaves sonic tapestries with didjeridus, gongs, flutes, kalimbas, drums, bells, bowls, and more. This sound meditation journey is an ancient wellness practice for relaxation and self-care.

The session lasts approximately 90 minutes. You will be sitting or lying down in a comfortable setting, closing your eyes, and focusing on the beautiful sounds of musical instruments from around the world. You are encouraged to wear warm comfortable clothing. It is recommended to bring a yoga mat, blankets, pillows, or anything else you need for your comfort. The more comfortable you are, the deeper the experience. Seating will also be provided.

Sound Journey (also often known as ‘sound healing’ or ‘sound meditation’) is the practice of listening to soothing sounds to reach profound states of clarity and relaxation. Deep meditative states can be quickly achieved that often require considerable effort and practice.

Listeners have described Sean’s improvisations as “sound acupuncture” and “a cell altering shamanic journey”.

\* This event is not recommended for children under 12.

Not recommended for children under 12

Sean Murphy: "Sound Meditation Journey"

Xavier Lynn’s music blends the smooth grooves of southern soul with the funk-driven energy of artists like Prince and Funkadelic, all wrapped in the heartfelt emotion of R&B. His sound is both timeless and fresh, drawing from his influences while creating something uniquely his own.  The live performance will feature a mix of songs from previous releases like \*Make It Through\* and \*Sorry It Ends This Way\*, along with brand-new, unreleased songs that highlight the depth and range of his artistry.

Supported by a talented band—Aaron Mayfield on keys, Devin Way on drums, Justice Michael on percussion, and Christian Camp on bass—this live show will be full of energy and heartfelt moments. Themes of growth and renewal run through the set, creating an authentic and memorable live experience that showcases the evolution of Xavier Lynn’s music.

Xavier Lynn

Corey Lou & DaVillage is bringing their signature Memphis sound to Crosstown Green Room for an unforgettable night of live music, raw emotion, and unstoppable groove. From smooth R&B to high-energy funk and hip-hop rhythms, every song tells a story and every moment pulls you deeper into the vibe.

This isn’t just a concert — it’s an experience. A celebration of community, creativity, and connection. Expect powerhouse vocals, live instrumentation, and that real Memphis soul you can feel.

Corey Lou is a Memphis-bred soul/R&B artist whose music blends the city’s gospel choir power with Stax-trained polish. Raised on deep church harmonies and shaped by the Stax Music Academy, he channels timeless Southern soul through a contemporary lens—intimate lyrics, warm vocals, and groove-driven arrangements.

In 2020 he formed his live band, Corey Lou & Da Village, and in 2022 launched DaVillage Entertainment to steward his releases and creative direction. The new live show is high-energy, electric, and flat-out fun—even if you don’t know a single song, you’ll feel part of it from the first chorus. On stage, Corey leads with a storyteller’s presence; in the studio, he focuses on songs about love, growth, and real-life reflections.

Corey Lou is currently preparing his debut project, a set of heartfelt, groove-rich tracks that spotlight his voice and band—crafted to bring people together through melody, message, and feel.

**PERSONNEL:**

Corey Lou - Lead Vox

Zalissa Stewart - Lead Vox

Anthony Dabney - Drums

Chris Franklin - Bass

Kem Gray - Aux Keys

Isaiah Walker - Main Keys

Isaiah Newsome - Lead Guitar

An Evening with Corey Lou & DaVillage 

For one night only, Recent Future transforms The Green Room into a dance floor for the doomed and the dreamers. Experience the band live as their music videos engulf the room in flickering fantasies, blurring the lines between the concert you’re watching and the world they’re building. Memphis favorites General Labor will start the night off.

​​Memphis-based Charlie Davis (Trash Goblin, Detachment Kit) and David Johnson (James and the Ultrasounds, Tall David) met in Governor's School for the Arts in 1998. Their decades' long friendship, fueled by late-night jams and hangouts, resulted in the creation of Recent Future. As the concept took root during the pandemic, their ideas reflected the world's uncertainty and upheaval, mixed with the personal reflection, anxiety and ultimately, hope, of new fathers. Their respective artistic mindsets meld into bleeding-edge synth punk that’s simultaneously danceable yet doom-laden. Vinyl release to follow later this year via Red Curtain Records.

“Ardent, Uncompromising, Danceable electro-clash doom dance, Synth punk, Powerful and assured, Insightful” - Liz Lane (DJ Modern Girl WEVL)

Recent Future + opener General Labor 

By the time Irish musician **Maria Somerville** started writing Luster, her landmark label debut for 4AD, she had lived away from her native Connemara for quite some time. Having grown up amongst the wild, mountainous terrain of Galway’s rural west coast, she later relocated to Dublin, where she patiently developed an atmospheric dream pop signature inspired by the landscape of her youth – a spellbinding soundworld of gusting ambient electronics, ethereal guitar strums, sparse percussion, and hushed lyrical vignettes. In 2019, this culminated in All My People, a self-released LP steeped in reverb, nostalgia and a yearning for home that won praise from discerning press and listeners alike.

It was upon returning to Connemara, in a house near where she was raised overlooking one of the country’s largest lakes, Lough Corrib, that work commenced on the songs that would eventually become Luster, an album that illuminates Somerville’s music anew, pushing it forward in both sound and spirit. Where All My People conveyed memories and melancholic longing with misty slowcore balladry, these 12 tracks show us an artist who’s more assured in the path her life has taken, and the person she’s become in the process. As she sings in ‘Trip’ – “I can see more clearly than I could before. I know now what's true for me.”

Invigorated by her surroundings and emboldened by her community, Somerville found a renewed sense of creative energy upon returning to home soil. It provided “fertile ground” for free-flowing recording sessions in her small living room studio, where she stitched together demos that were then fleshed out with friends and collaborators, and later mixed by the renowned New York-based engineer Gabriel Schuman. Contributors included producers J. Colleran, Brendan Jenkinson and Diego Herrera (aka Suzanne Kraft), as well as Lankum’s Ian Lynch, whose uilleann pipe drones you can hear in ‘Violet’, and Margie Jean Lewis, whose violin bows reverberate through the ambient haze of ‘Flutter’. Sessions with musicians Henry Earnest and Finn Carraher McDonald (aka Nashpaints) helped “tie it all together”, while contributions from friends Roisin Berkley and Olan Monk enshrined the companionship they’ve shared since Somerville returned to Connemara.

Listeners have had a window into Somerville’s world every Monday and Tuesday morning since 2021 via her beloved Early Bird Show on NTS Radio, where her dawn chorus selections range from blissful ambient and shoegaze to traditional Irish folk songs. Since signing to 4AD that same year, Somerville has toured with her label mates Dry Cleaning, and released two covers for the label’s 40th anniversary celebrations – taking on Nancy Sinatra’s ‘Kinky Love’ and Air Miami’s ‘Sea Bird’. With the release of Luster, she has signaled the arrival of a new era that will see her play around the world in 2025 accompanied by a live band. Rest assured though, no matter where Somerville goes, she’ll take a piece of home with her – a living, breathing, timeless essence you can sense in every note, as clear as the air by the Corrib.

Crosstown Arts

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