The Building of a Legacy - MARCUS ANDERSON

The musical presence and footprint of jazz fusion artist Marcus Anderson is being felt in places that perhaps only few have reached.

- Jeannette Estes

This native of Spartanburg, South Carolina, has risen in the jazz industry's ranks securing a position as one of the most sought-after musicians in the world. Anderson, a twotimes nominated Grammy and Stellar award artist, has established his sound, showmanship, and business acumen with no apologies.

Anderson's musical resume is nothing short of impressive. With fifteen albums, five number one Billboard hits, and a lengthy performance history, this multi-instrumentalist continues to soar above new heights. Anderson, perhaps most well-known for his incredible saxophone, delivers to any audience a vibrant stage presence with wellexecuted dance moves and vocal charms. His performances include those with artists at the top of entertainment's pinnacle and those who find notable adoration among the masses. Prince, Stevie Wonder, Sheila E, Brian Culbertson, Eric Benet, Lalah Hathaway, Ceelo Green, Anthony Hamilton, and Jennifer Holiday, and Miguel are just a few to be named. Anderson has also blessed dignitaries President Barack Obama, Jesse Jackson, and Hillary Clinton with his musical genius.

Most recently, Anderson released his newest album, "The Vibe," at his yearly jazz escape. This writer had the opportunity to sit and delve into the fabric of Anderson’s life that is truly weaving a formidable legacy. When asked what and or who inspired his musical journey, Anderson, the youngest of seven children, shared that during his early years, around age five, his mother and father formed a family musical group, “The Anderson Twins.” This group was comprised of himself and his twin brothers (mom had two sets of twins!) who were all gifted singers. The group was similar to that of American Music Royalty, The Jacksons, and they performed in various places. It was around this time that Anderson took an interest in dancing, paying the closest of attention to the moves of James Brown, Jackie Wilson, and Michael Jackson.