Why Residents Love Living at Crosstown Concourse: Inside Stories from Our Community

Crosstown Concourse isn’t just a place—it’s a thriving community where creativity, culture, and connection come alive every day. For those who call Parcels @ Crosstown Concourse home, living here is about more than just a convenient location; it’s about being part of something bigger. Whether it’s the ease of access to vibrant local events, the inspiration drawn from daily interactions with fellow creatives, or the simple pleasure of grabbing a coffee on a morning stroll, life at Crosstown Concourse is full of unique experiences.

In these interviews, both residents and community members share what makes life at Crosstown so special. From ideal days spent exploring the building’s many offerings to memorable moments that have left a lasting impact, their stories paint a vivid picture of why so many people love being part of this vibrant community. Dive into their experiences and discover the magic of Crosstown Concourse through the eyes of those who live it every day.

CRAIG BREWER

What impact has the Crosstown Concourse rehabilitation had on the community?

As I’ve watched Concourse grow over the last couple of years, I feel like it’s the fi rst
time we have a place where the full spectrum of Memphis creativity has a place to
hang out. I see old and young musicians working together, and the racial makeup is
really refreshing. Also, as a parent who is raising kids interested in the arts, it’s great
to see teens come out of school every day at 3:00, and take pictures, make videos,
dance, just hanging out and being creative.

What is your favorite Crosstown Concourse show or event to date?

There are two: First, the Jonathan Kirksey Mellotron Concert. He actually wrote
the soundtrack for my fi rst movie, The Poor & Hungry, and now he’s doing a
bunch of amazing things. Everyone who was anyone in music was working
together, and coming to see something completely new – it was amazing.
Second, I went to see Darius Wallace’s one-man show at Crosstown Theater. It
was at noon, and it was slammed! People came in on their lunch breaks, students
from the school attended, everybody was there!

Best Memphis band, past or present?

Past: Big Star. Of course, Stax should be mentioned, but that needs to be
its own category! Big Star is so special to Memphis.
Present: Alicja Trout and the River City Tan Lines

Something that has surprised you about living at Concourse?

My son likes to dance. Sometimes he comes down to Crosstown because dancers he admires come here to video themselves dancing in the open spaces. One day I watched a photographer taking headshots of a lady, then he turned to take pictures of the dancers. That’s what a creative community should be about: doing your own thing and then being inspired by someone doing their own thing.

McKENZII WEBSTER

Musician and Artist Services Manager – Crosstown Arts

What does an ideal day at Crosstown Concourse look like for you?

An ideal day at Crosstown Concourse would start with an iced Chai Latte and
breakfast sandwich from French Truck Coffee. Then, enjoying the vibes on
the second floor terrace and catching a pop-up performance in the central
atrium. A nice walk with my dog Shorty around the front greenspace and
splash area. Would probably end the day with a show in the Green Room
and a drink – 90 in the Shade – from Art Bar.

What is your favorite event or concert you have attended here?

My favorite concert I’ve attended at Crosstown was in 2019. It was the
Midnight Hour concert. I’m a fan of Ali Shaheed Muhammad and the projects
he’s been a part of (e.g. Tribe Called Quest, Lucy Pearl). So, that concert was
definitely a highlight.

How has Crosstown Concourse impacted your life?

There is something to be said about the energy in Crosstown Concourse that
can be felt by all that visit, work, and live here. As someone fortunate enough
to live and work in the building, I am able to enjoy this 24/7.

JAZMIN MILLER

The mission of Concourse is to use a building to positively impact how people experience their lives. How has living at Concourse positively impacted your life?

 I have seen Crosstown Concourse both totally vacant (before opening) and filled with nearly 10,000 people at community gatherings. I can buy local produce at Mad Grocer and diverse cuisine in the building’s restaurants. I have heard TED Talks from Memphis’ leaders and innovators at Crosstown Theater and listened to necessary conversations at events such as MLK50 in the Central Atrium. I have spent valuable time with mentors and mentees at French Truck Coffee, the YMCA, and Gloss. And at the end of each day, ordinary or extraordinary, I am able to ride the elevator to an apartment that I call home. The Concourse building has not only fostered community for me but maintains an ecosystem that nurtures my spirit.

BELINDA SIMPSON

Community Engagement Specialist

The mission of Concourse is to use a building to positively impact how people experience their lives. How has living at Concourse positively impacted your life?

I love how busy the building is during the day. The energy when people are enjoying the building gives me a sense of pride to know that I live here. Working and living in the building is a major plus, but even if I didn’t work in Crosstown, I can just imagine the feeling of coming home to this space. Having food available when I don’t feel like going out always brings a smile to my face.

Favorite restaurant, food offering, cocktail, or CBC beer?

Farm Burger is my favorite restaurant because my son works there. Art Bar has some of the most unique cocktails, and I love the atmosphere.

Something that has surprised you about living at Concourse? 

How quiet the building is after everything has shut down. It’s like a totally different place. Also, I love how quickly the building gets back to normal after an event.

CINDY COLE

Healthcare Professional

What is the best live music show you’ve seen here?

The music and art rank high on the list of my favorite things about Crosstown. Living here gave me an advantage of being exposed to a multitude of offerings. It is hard to choose a favorite, but I guess it would be Kirk Whalum and the guests he brought to his shows!

Favorite restaurant, food offering, cocktail, or CBC beer?

Global is my favorite restaurant, but, I also want to include the grocer and the specials they offer. Both Global and the Art Bar have some great cocktails!