On March 19, 2026, trumpeter Marquis Hill made his debut as a bandleader at the Village Vanguard, leading a quintet that included alto saxophonist Josh Johnson, guitarist Emmanuel Michael, bassist Junius Paul, and drummer Makaya McCraven. (wbgo.org) This performance was part of a four-night engagement at the iconic New York City venue, marking a significant milestone in Hill's career. (concerts50.com)
At the time, Hill was touring in support of his latest album, "(Beautifulism) Sweet Surrender," released on March 13, 2026. (planitpurple.northwestern.edu) The album features a collaboration with McCraven, who also joined Hill on stage for this performance. (shatterthestandards.com) The set showcased Hill's ability to blend post-bop with elements of hip-hop, R&B, and neo-soul, reflecting the diverse influences present in his recent work.
The inclusion of McCraven, a fellow Chicago native and acclaimed drummer, added a unique dynamic to the ensemble. Their shared musical background and previous collaborations brought a cohesive energy to the performance, resonating with the audience and highlighting the rich musical heritage of Chicago's jazz scene.
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