(February 8, 2021) Mary Cross is a singer who listens to the greats. She counts Nina Simone, Oleta Adams, Lizz Wright, Gladys Knight and Burt Bacharach among the artists whose work you will find on her playlists. However, Phyllis Hyman and Nancy Wilson are the two performers that go beyond being major influences. Cross’s vibe with these two late, great legends reaches into the territory of sympatico.
Cross not only connected with both women’s precise phrasing and excellent vocal range, but also with the classy way in which they carried themselves – from their statuesque stage presence to the elegant that both women wore on stage. Cross brings that total package to her latest single “Promise,” as well as the associated video. Adorned in a blue velvet gown, the video for “Promise” finds Cross singing in a ballroom as she serenades her man. The video cuts the image of elegance and romance that many thought had been lost to a bygone era.
However, Cross restores that era with the video and the song, which could serve nicely as either a wedding or reception dance song. Cross’s vocals may remind some of the great Phyllis Hyman. She certainly possesses the vocal range and that element of jazz. Check out the video for “Promise” here.
By Howard Dukes
Mary Cross – “Promise”
