Endea Owens & The Cookout is a vibrant jazz ensemble led by the talented bassist and composer Endea Owens, whose groove-based music reflects her Detroit roots and showcases her dynamic collaborations with jazz legends. A celebrated artist with multiple prestigious awards, Owens is also dedicated to philanthropy and community engagement, making her a standout figure in contemporary jazz.
Endea Owens & The Cookout is a dynamic jazz ensemble led by bassist, composer, and recording artist Endea Owens. Widely recognized as one of the most vibrant and versatile emerging artists in contemporary jazz, Owens has carved a distinctive niche in the jazz world.
Endea Owens was raised in Detroit, a city renowned for its rich musical heritage, especially in jazz and Motown genres, which deeply influenced her "groove-based" approach to music. She graduated in 2015 with a degree in Jazz Studies from Michigan State University’s College of Music and furthered her education at The Juilliard School, graduating in 2018.
Owens has been under the mentorship of jazz legends such as Marcus Belgrave, Rodney Whitaker, and Ron Carter. Her performance and tour repertoire include collaborations with a diverse array of celebrated artists:
Owens was a member of the house band Stay Human on The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, which significantly bolstered her presence in the jazz world. She has also contributed to major projects, including Jon Batiste’s Grammy-winning album "We Are", the Oscar-nominated film "Judas and the Black Messiah", and H.E.R’s Super Bowl LV performance.
Endea Owens is an award-winning artist with several prestigious accolades:
Owens is also an acclaimed composer whose works have received wide recognition. Notable compositions include:
She has written music for renowned brands such as Pyer Moss and Glossier.
The Cookout, Owens' acoustic bass-led sextet, is known for its rhythmically charged, groove-based jazz, reflecting her Detroit roots. Celebrated for energetic live performances, their repertoire blends tradition with innovation.
Owens is deeply committed to philanthropy and community service. She launched the Community Cookout project in July 2020, initially providing 125 meals to those in need in Harlem. The initiative has since expanded internationally, holding cookouts and free concerts in locations like Scotland, Germany, and the U.S., together feeding thousands.
Owens is also the curator at the National Arts Club and a fellow for "Jazz is Now!" at the National Jazz Museum in Harlem, where she showcases original compositions, curates series, and headlines performances. Her ability to merge music, fashion, and social activism highlights her interdisciplinary impact.
Owens is lauded for her "masterful playing and exuberant charm" which captivate audiences and critics alike. NPR’s Jazz Night in America spotlighted her as a standout performer, describing her live performances as infused with infectious energy and community spirit.
Endea Owens & The Cookout epitomizes the intersection of tradition and innovation in jazz, underscored by a strong commitment to community and social impact through musical excellence.
