Grammy-nominated saxophonist Marcus Anderson joins Greazy Keyz on #LocalMusicSomewhere for an exclusive live performance and deep-dive into his latest project, The Vibe. From touring with Prince to launching AND Coffee and the Jazz AND Coffee Escape Festival, Marcus shares his creative drive, lessons learned on the road, and what keeps his passion alive.
Marcus Anderson: Jazz Innovator & Prince Protégé Talks “The Vibe”
About Me – Marcus Anderson
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!
Upcoming Events
“The Vibe” (2025)
“The Vibe Tour”
“A Christmas Romance Tour”
Marcus Anderson: Jazz, Hustle, and Heart on Local Music Somewhere
When Local Music Somewhere host Greazy Keyz sat down with Marcus Anderson, the room filled with more than conversation — it pulsed with rhythm, drive, and the unmistakable glow of a born creator. Anderson isn’t just a two-time Grammy-nominated saxophonist. He’s a visionary entrepreneur, festival founder, coffee connoisseur, and philanthropist redefining what artistry looks like in 2025.
“There’s always a way to find a compromise and be in the middle… I knew I would be the bridge.” That’s Marcus Anderson in one line — a connector of genres, people, and ideas, always building bridges between worlds that others might see as opposites.
From Spartanburg to the Stage of Legends
Born and raised in Spartanburg, South Carolina, Anderson’s musical roots run deep in a family of creatives — from educators and ministers to fellow musicians. A scholarship to North Carolina Central University (NCCU) set him on a path toward mastering jazz, blending traditional and contemporary styles with his own soulful touch.
His story is proof that preparation meets purpose. When his father first placed a shiny saxophone in his hands, Marcus didn’t know it would one day carry him across the globe, performing for presidents and alongside Prince himself. “My dad nudged me in the direction of that, and he told me, you’re going to play the saxophone, you’re going to be great, you’re going to travel the world.”
Touring with Prince and Beyond
Anderson’s path to joining Prince’s New Power Generation reads like a fateful jam-session legend. One night of pure musical energy and authenticity led to a referral that would forever change his trajectory. What began as a fill-in gig became a career-defining moment — performing with one of the most iconic artists in music history.
The experience shaped not just his performance style but his leadership philosophy. Though he initially avoided the spotlight, life and faith kept “nudging” him to lead — whether assembling bands, producing records, or mentoring young musicians.
A True Creative Empire
After life on tour, Anderson didn’t slow down. Instead, he built an empire — one that blends music, business, and community. His A & D Coffee company celebrates its 10-year anniversary this month, proving that his entrepreneurial drive matches his musical passion. He’s also the founder of the Marcus Anderson Jazz & Coffee Festival, which has raised over $100,000 for NCCU’s music department and provided 55 instruments to Durham Public Schools.
His upcoming project with the Marcus Anderson Foundation aims to “revolutionize the jazz genre” and set a new model for giving back to the music industry — a fitting mission for an artist who believes that success only multiplies when shared.
Centered, Grounded, and Grateful
For Anderson, the show doesn’t start when the lights come up — it starts long before. His pre-show ritual includes stretching, meditation, white noise, and stillness. “It’s not a football game,” he laughs. “Don’t slap me on the back before I go on. I’m centering my energy to give the best part of me to the crowd.”
Whether he’s performing at the Middle C Jazz Club in Charlotte or creating the next wave of jazz innovation, Anderson carries the same mindset: gratitude, discipline, and purpose. Every note, every business, every act of giving stems from a simple truth — artistry is service.
🎷 Key Takeaways from Marcus Anderson on Local Music Somewhere
Bridging Genres: Anderson balances contemporary and traditional jazz, creating unity where others see division.
Roots & Family: His musical journey began in Spartanburg, SC, in a deeply creative family environment.
Prince Connection: A spontaneous jam session opened the door to perform with Prince’s New Power Generation.
Entrepreneurial Spirit: Founder of A & D Coffee and the Marcus Anderson Jazz & Coffee Festival, blending art and enterprise.
Philanthropy: Through his foundation, Marcus is building opportunities for young musicians and expanding music education access.
Mindfulness in Music: Meditation, stretching, and routine help him prepare to give his audience 100%.
Upcoming Event: Catch Marcus Anderson live at Middle C Jazz Club, October 25th — an unforgettable evening of music and energy. Tickets available here.
Marcus Anderson: The Artist Who Gives Back
With nearly 20 albums, a thriving business, and a heart for community, Marcus Anderson is proof that great music and great impact can live in harmony. As Local Music Somewhere continues to spotlight the artists shaping the sound of today, Anderson reminds us that success isn’t just about what you achieve — it’s about what you give back.
