Home » Jazz Musicians » Steve Cromity

Steve Cromity

Steve Cromity may be new to the New York jazz scene as a performer, but his lifelong passion for the art form began as a boy when he would often lie awake at night listening to the improvisational riffs and wails coming from the popular Bed-Stuy jazz bar downstairs. A Brooklyn native, Steve went on to play drums in junior high and high school, where his appreciation for the music continued to grow. He caught the singing bug in his early twenties after hearing the “godfather” of vocalese, Eddie Jefferson. But thoughts of pursuing that aspiration became a dream deferred. Meanwhile, Steve and wife Lettie raised two sons while he earned a Master’s Degree in Public Administration from New York University. He enjoyed a long and rewarding career with The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, of which he is now retired. Steve’s two sons are now grown and he is the proud grandfather of five. But it was the tragic events of September 11, 2001—and his safe evacuation from the World Trade Center—that reminded him to fully appreciate life’s uncertainties; Steve realized he had some unfinished business to attend. The seed that was planted all those years ago—before he even knew who Miles and Trane were—was now ready to bear fruit.

Steve has entered the jazz world with a burst of energy and a total commitment to not only share his talent, but to continue to grow and develop his own unique presence as a jazz vocalist. Steve’s first CD, “Steppin’ Out”, which has received the approval of audiences and musicians alike, is a testament to his vocal skills and musical taste. To pay homage to the tradition, he chose to assemble for his first recording a collection of the jazz standards that he heard growing up—a mixture of up-tempo tunes and ballads, including Just Friends, What’s New, and Invitation. Accompanying him on the date are several all-stars in their own right: Eric Wyatt (sax), Rodney Kendrick (piano), Joseph Lapore (bass), and Emanuel Harrold (drums).

The work has been well received, and Steve’s tone, phrasing, and easy-listening style have impressed many, including All About Jazz magazine, which reported: “This is a straight ahead, crisply swinging session from a talented singer with impeccable diction and an ear for great songs”. Cadence magazine concurred: “ Steve sings with a revered melodic accuracy, and a cool and comfortable outlook that will put a smile on your face.” Steve’s CD release party—held at the Brooklyn Conservatory of Music in July 2005—was a standing-room only affair and all who attended came away knowing that Steve is serious about his new career and definitely has something musical to offer.

Read more

Tags

111
Album Review

Steve Cromity: Steppin' Out

Read "Steppin' Out" reviewed by Andrew Rowan


This is a straight-ahead, crisply swinging session from a talented singer with impeccable diction and an ear for great songs. More often than not, Steve Cromity imbues his performances with easy rhythmic agility.It is so good to hear pianist Rodney Kendrick (not “Kendricks as the CD booklet and cover note). His work, whether as a leader or as a member of the band, has been highly anticipated since he stood New York on his head when he assumed ...

Read more articles
4

Event

Jazz @ Two Steps Down (Brooklyn) with the Steve Cromity Trio on June 10th

Jazz @ Two Steps Down (Brooklyn) with the Steve Cromity Trio on June 10th

Source: Steve Cromity

Jazz @ Two Steps Down is a monthly event that features vocalist Steve Cromity and his trio: Marcus Persiani (keyboards), Eric Lemon (bass) and Craig Haynes (drums). Each month also includes a veteran guest performer and this month it's the fabulous Vinnie Knight. Open mic for vocalists and instrumentalists follows so bring your axe! This month also marks the season finale with the third season starting in September. Hear straight-ahead jazz by world-class musicians and emerging artists in a laid-back, ...

Photos

Music

Recordings: As Leader | As Sideperson

All My Tomorrows

Cromcake Records
2015

buy

Steppin' Out

Cromcake Records
2005

buy

Get more of a good thing!

Our weekly newsletter highlights our top stories, our special offers, and upcoming jazz events near you.