Hunter Cross

ORENDA Magazine Vol. 6 Issue 1, "The Influence of Music", showcases artists from across the world including... Hunter Cross... and more. - HAZZE MEDIA

On this episode, Hunter and I discuss his creative evolution – from a burgeoning eleven year old independent filmmaker to an arts cultivator in Jackson. Not only does Hunter care about his art, but he also has a heart for members of his community. We discuss Krewfest and the need he felt to do something to help the homeless population in Jackson.

On this episode, Hunter and I discuss his creative evolution – from a burgeoning eleven year old independent filmmaker to an arts cultivator in Jackson. Not only does Hunter care about his art, but he also has a heart for members of his community. We discuss Krewfest and the need he felt to do something to help the homeless population in Jackson. - Gabe Hart - The Stories We Tell

JACKSON, Tenn. — The City of Jackson has selected Hunter Cross as February’s Hub City Hero.

Known locally as a musician, songwriter and vocalist, Cross is also the owner of Third Eye Curiosities in downtown Jackson.

Cross says during his five years at the vinyl record shop, he sees members of the unhoused population daily and sees how real their struggle is.

“I kept telling myself what’s the least I can do. I have a platform I have a regular customer base. I have the opportunity to combine music with helping this cause,” said Cross. “I had the location and it was a no-brainer. It was easy to do and it’s something I believe in.”

Cross coordinates the annual Krewfest event in efforts to raise supplies for the unhoused population, and according to his nominator, Cross “is passionate about the homeless situation in Jackson and works to connect the community to ensure resources are available for those in need.”

Cross says the 4th annual Krewfest will be held this year, and in 2022, they had over 100 coats donated.

“It’s combing live music and we all come together for donating what we have for those who don’t have,” said Cross. “I think last year there was an emphasis on boots and coats. I know what it’s like to be uncomfortably cold but I can’t imagine what it’s like to be out there freezing.”

According to Cross, getting the word out about the festival, along with donating locally, makes an impact.

“You can worry about what’s going on outside our little city but you have the power to change what’s happening in your neighborhood,” said Cross. “If you can’t attend the event, just know about the [local] resources.”

“Heroes don’t turn a blind-eye to the needs of others. Hunter sees the need almost daily in his shop,” said Mayor Scott Conger. “The mark of a true hero is when they use their platform in order to help others and that’s what Hunter does for members of the unhoused community.” - Kyle Peppers - WBBJ

When Hunter and Cameron are away from Third Eye Curiosities, they are usually involved in making music together as [Hunter Cross, formerly] The Skeleton Krew. Joe acts as their manager; when he arrives in the store that afternoon, he’s ready with a list of upcoming performances and events for the band. Joe teaches, farms, mentors others, manages the band, and can now add “owns a local business” to his list of duties. - Our Jackson Home

Rain falls steadily against the sidewalk, bouncing back up almost as soon as it brushes the ground, and all I have for a shield is my military-green rain jacket as I hurry into Alba. Throwing off my hood, I spot a guy in a sharp polka-dotted button-up and a girl with cool eyeliner sitting in the corner of the coffee shop. Together, local artist(s) Hunter Cross and Cameron Briley combine their talents as [Hunter Cross formerly known as] The Skeleton Krew , an original band with a 60s-inspired, blues-rock vibe. But before they sold out of their band’s black-and-white baseball tees at their Outsiders Exposition concert, they performed with a different sound under a different name: The Killing Flower. I take a seat with Hunter and Cameron to talk about [Hunter Cross]’s origins, the Jackson music scene, and what’s next in store for their growing careers. - Our Jackson Home