Theo Croker – trumpet
Michael King – keyboards
Eric Wheeler – bass
Michael Ode – drums

The grandson of the famed blues-swing trumpeter Doc Cheatham, trumpeter and composer Theo Crocker gained his first professional experience during his extended stay in Shanghai – in addition to his engagement in leading clubs (House of Blues, Peace Hotel Jazz Bar), he was also music director in the popular TV series Asia Uncut. In 2010, he met Dee Dee Bridgewater, joined her backing band, and with her support, he finally launched an impressive solo career. Dee Dee released Crocker’;s third album Afro Physicist (2014) for her DDB Records label, sang on the album and got renowned jazz musicians such as Roy Hargrove, Stefon Harris, Sullivan Fortner, and her daughter China Moses to take part in the recording. The album’;s success enabled him to perform at prestigious world festivals (Rotterdam, San Sebastian, Perugia…) and backed his decision to return to the United States.

His previous album Star People Nation got him his first Grammy nomination, and with the current release BLK2LIFE || A FUTURE PAST he will likely continue his climb to the top of contemporary jazz. In collaboration with many distinguished guests (Gary Bartz, Ari Lennox, Wyclef Jean …), the album is a sound celebration of Crocker’s Afro-roots, leaning on jazz and funk tradition, but also open to modern trends, such as hip-hop, rap and neo-soul.

https://theocroker.com/