The Baylor Project featuring the husband-wife team of Jean Baylor and Marcus Baylor specializes in music that includes the influence of gospel, blues, soul, and jazz to make its mark. Their debut CD The Journey, released on their own label, Be A Light, topped the Billboard Jazz Chart at number 8, solidifying The Baylor Project as an undeniable force.
Jean, a “Jersey Girl”, was introduced to jazz in college as a Vocal Performance major at Temple University, where she was heavily influenced by artists such as Carmen McCrae, Jimmy Scott, and Shirley Horn. She subsequently made her mark as one-half of the platinum recording duo, Zhane´. In addition to continued development of her craft, Jean has expanded into composing, arranging, producing, and band leading.
Marcus, a St. Louis native, is widely recognized as the former member and drummer of the 3-time Grammy Award winning jazz quartet, Yellowjackets. While studying and graduating from The New School for Jazz and Contemporary Music, he performed and recorded with musical icons Cassandra Wilson, John Scofield, and Kenny Garrett. Since then, Marcus has come into his own as a composer, arranger, producer, and bandleader.
Now together on stage, they perform original compositions and new arrangements of classic pieces. They utilize sincerity and maturity far beyond their years to deliver ballads with storied grace and elegance, and grit. And what’s more is that Marcus and Jean have the uncanny ability to bridge the gap between generations. They are relatable, they are virtuosic, and for these reasons they captivate packed houses and sold-out audiences.