AWARD-WINNING JAZZ VOCALIST
Music
Mary Cross
From the powerful energy of 2NspireU to the intimate sound of the Mary Cross Jazz Ensemble, Mary brings together talented musicians who share her passion for creating unforgettable musical experiences.
2NspireU Band Family
Everything we Do...Is 2NspireU
2NspireU was founded on the principle of bring JOY to listeners through the gift of song and Music. Each creative who is part of our band family have years of experience and love to serve. This space is to Introduce to Some and present to others some beautiful Souls I have the privilege to share the stage with. I encourage you to get to know our heart.
The Artists Behind the Sound
Joe Lizzi (J.L.)
Pianist
Joe is a prodigy. His emotions are interpreted from his heart through his fingers on those piano keys! He has played for innumerable artists and venues, and band sizes. J.L. is a highly sought after pianist...a gift to the music industry...and artists alike. His talents don't cease there...! He works on vintage vehicles...a great commonality between love he and his dad share...and he is a great conversationalist and so full of wisdom. Truly an old Soul. *Everyone should be so lucky to have a J.L. in their family! He is truly a wonderful person...but definitely an Old Soul! Great addition to our 2NspireU family! Come hear his skills on key. He also has another gift for writing lead sheets/ charts! We are so Blessed to have him! *We adopted his family as well - what a BONUS... Paula...Joe Sr. and G-Pop (RIHP)
Michelle “Songbird” Ray
(Lead & Background Vocalist)
Michelle...a Powerhouse Singer! This beautiful chameleon provides her lovely diverse vocals to any project, genre or gift of song. ...and she has that mastered..down to a science. She sings jazz, R&B, Soul, and soo much more! You can find her providing support as lead, duet, and backing vocalist for artists throughout the delaware valley and as a soloist and co-lead with her band: Ain't Nothing But a Party Band' Fabulous! Kind, Thoughtful, Lovely and a wonderful human being who loves GOD and humanity. You are bound to see her anywhere! any venue! anytime! any season...but always sounding Fabulous! She is a well known gem and gift to the Southern NJ region and organizations world wide.
Dane Clark
Guitarist & 2NspireU Musical Director
Dane serves as the Musical Director and Tre Tre is Mary and Dane's right hand support! this dynamic duo have been pt of 2NspireU from the early years and they are worth their salt and dedicated to being a Blessing! from Dane's well versed experience with the music and direction provided to the musical family...to Tre keeping the birthdays and after rehearsal candy readily available for band fam to enjoy....to attending so many events standing in solidarity with the team...she is our diamond...a treasure and gift. Gratful Dane has embraced the vision and served as Mary's key player in leadership. His guitar skill set, knowledge of the music theory, techy skills and practice schedule is impressive to all who encounter this great man...and first lady Tre Tre~ We are very VERY fortunate to have them both!
Martina Grant
Lead & Backing Vocalist
This lovely songstress comes from great line of musical artists...and her mother - was also a Camden native and renowned recording artist! She shares her gifts as a vocalist in any support space required. She serves in many roles and has been with 2NspireU from the beginning. Her roles have been many and she easily changes hats on an as needed basis to support in any way needed. Grateful to have her as a 2NspireU songstress....she can sing, dance, orate spoken word, cook, bake, awesome caregiver..and a lover of humanity. She is a prayer warrior and support to any and all who call on her. 2NspireU IS Martina Grant...a help and lifetime support.
Daille Kettrell
Pianist / Vocalist
This retired music school teacher is a great addition to the 2NspireU family. She tickles the ivory and brings songs to life! she also lends her lovely voice to songs in harmony and lead. She and Shiane LaDale, founders of pen4Business ensemble - an all women band are gaining a reputation and she lends her musical expertise to musical projects throughout the region! A great team player and support we are grateful have as the Pianist. she complements all of the artists in our band family! Nothing but love!
Lonnie Baldwin
Drummer
Lonnie is an EXTRAORDINARY talent and great addition to the 2NspireU family. His skill set on the drum throne is bar none! Anyone who knows...KNOWS that the drummer has to remain in the driver's seat at all times or your band is gonna go off the grid/rail/road. Lonnie ensures we are always on point and he studies the music, is disciplined and focused on ensuring everything he puts his hands to is done Optimally! He lends great advisement and is one of the most humble individuals....when he speaks - its love and wisdom but his heart is huge. We know this gem is a gift...and we appreciate the flava' he brings to the team...Grateful to call him family! He is always working to help us excel as a team/group.
Joe Fisher “Scoodie”
Bassist
2NspireU is comprised of great human beings and Joe is no exception to that rule! He is kind, soft spoken and a lover of humanity and an great person who has been with the band since inception! His temperment is as beautiful as his heart! We are so fortunate to have him set our lives to music and pluck the ax the way he does. The audiences absolutely LOVE Joe. whom most know as 'Scoodie'!
Carey Muse “Akono”
Percussionist
Carey has accompanied some of the most amazing and renowned artists in the music industry. A great man, musician and 2NspireU band family member
Kyrie Miller
Guitarist | Jazz & Contemporary Musician
Kyrie Miller is a versatile guitarist and accomplished musician whose playing reflects a deep appreciation for jazz, soul, R&B, and contemporary music. A skilled and expressive performer, Kyrie brings musicality, sensitivity, and a strong sense of groove to every ensemble he joins. Kyrie has performed with award-winning vocalist Mary Cross as a member of the Mary Cross Jazz Ensemble (MCJ) which contributed to his distinctive guitar work to performances that blend jazz standards, classic soul, R&B, and the Great American Songbook. He was featured alongside Mary Cross at her acclaimed An Intimate Evening of Song concert at the Edelman Fossil Park & Museum, SoccerFest, and private/public events with genres of R&B, Soul, Jazz, Country, Blues, Pop and Soft Rock. His musical experience also includes performing with jazz ensembles in the South Jersey/Philadelphia region, including the Mercer County Community College Jazz Ensemble, where he has been featured on guitar. Kyrie continues to develop his style as a guitarist while collaborating with artists and ensembles across the region. His ability to support a vocalist while adding tasteful, expressive musical colors makes him an integral part of the Mary Cross musical experience.
Willingboro Jazz Festival — August 9
What a memorable day of music, community, and celebration!
The Mary Cross Jazz Ensemble was honored to take the stage at the 43rd Annual Willingboro Jazz Festival, performing before an incredible crowd as part of an event that welcomed more than 20,000 attendees.
Sharing the festival lineup with an extraordinary roster of artists, including Eric Roberson, Karen Briggs, Gerald Veasley, Carol Riddick, and Mike Phillips.
Surrounded by exceptional musicians whose artistry helped make our performances so special: Joe Lizzi (Keys), Lonnie Baldwin (Drums), and Jordan Berger (Bass).
There is something powerful about thousands of people coming together through live music. From longtime jazz lovers to families and new listeners discovering the music, the energy throughout the festival was unforgettable.
Thank you to the Willingboro Jazz Festival, everyone behind the scenes, the musicians, and especially the audience who showed up and shared this beautiful day with us. One incredible South Jersey community. One unforgettable celebration of LIVE music.
K & M (Kyrie and Mary) - Duets
Shared Passion. One unforgettable sound.
A special musical collaboration bringing together soulful vocals, expressive performances, and a shared love of timeless music. Explore the K&M Duets through selected performance footage and photos that capture the warmth, energy, and musical connection of this unique collaboration.
ON THE JAZZ SCENE
Moments Among Jazz Greats
From the NY Gotham Jazz Festival to Chicken Bone Beach, Mary Cross has shared memorable musical moments with acclaimed artists including Catherine Russell, Regina Carter, and other celebrated musicians. Explore highlights from these performances and collaborations.
Mary Cross Jazz Ensemble 'MCJ'
As a CHANTEUSE, Mary performs Jazz accompanied by MC Quartet...which was founded in 2023. It consists of Daille Kettrell (vocals & keys); Greg Novick (Bass); and Lonnie Baldwin (Drums).
In 2024, she founded MCQ Mary Cross Quintet: Joe Lizzi/J.L. (keys); Steven Lynn (bass); Lonnie Baldwin (drums); and Mike Farrell (sax). Performing traditional Jazz from The Great American Songbook and more!
2NspireU and MCQ is Classic Soul and Jazz.
This space celebrates the creatives who provide musical support.
Watch & Listen
Feel The Music
