By: Lennard James
Recently, we had the pleasure of attending a unique event in Tunica, Mississippi—Jazz & Jokes at the Fitz Casino. The name itself left us curious. Was this going to be a mix of vaudeville-style entertainment? A blend of comedians attempting to sing and dance? Or just a showcase of live jazz and stand-up comedy?
To our delight, it turned out to be none of the above—yet somehow a perfect blend of comedy and concert magic. From the moment we stepped into the venue, it was clear that the audience knew exactly what they were in for. A mature and diverse crowd filled the room, buzzing with excitement, and the night did not disappoint. The show was produced by Chuck Hildreth of Paschal Hildreth Entertainment, adding another layer of professionalism and excellence to the event.
The evening started with a lineup of comedians, setting the tone for a night filled with hilarity and high energy. Host Prescott, a familiar name in Memphis and beyond, took command of the stage. If you’ve ever heard him on the radio or seen him tour with comedy legends like Steve Harvey, Bernie Mac, Cedric The Entertainer, and Rickey Smiley, you already know his quick wit and relatable humor are second to none. Prescott wasted no time warming up the crowd, engaging them with his effortless charm and everyday observations.
Next up was Styl Phyl, a newcomer with a refreshingly unique comedic style. She leaned into storytelling, weaving hilarious tales about her family, marriage, and personal experiences that had the audience in stitches. Her natural delivery and relatable material struck a chord with the crowd, making her an instant favorite.
Then came Rob Love, a seasoned comic who kept the momentum going. Joke after joke landed flawlessly, proving why he’s been a staple in the comedy circuit. His ability to effortlessly transition from one topic to another kept the audience engaged and laughing non-stop.
Finally, it was time for the headliner—Tony Tone. Many might remember him as the former ringmaster for the UniverSoul Circus, but Tony has long since evolved into a standout comedian with impeccable timing and delivery. From the second he hit the stage; he had the audience roaring with laughter. His ability to read the crowd and feed off their energy made his set one of the highlights of the night.
After nearly an hour of non-stop laughter, one might think the show was winding down. Not even close. That was only the Jokes’ portion, and next came the Jazz (or, more accurately, the music).
Enter Devin Crutcher, a powerhouse vocalist who effortlessly commanded the stage. Fans of the show Making the Band may recognize his name, but he has also earned the title of being among Memphis’ leading entertainers—and for good reason. From the moment he started singing, his voice filled the room with soul and passion.
Devin’s setlist consisted of hit after hit, covering classic songs with such precision and emotion that at times, it felt like he had written them himself. His performance wasn’t just about singing, it was a full-fledged experience, engaging the audience with his dynamic stage presence and undeniable charisma.
For nearly 45 minutes to an hour, Devin kept the energy high, making sure every person in the room got their money’s worth. By the time he finished his set, the audience was on their feet, dancing, clapping, and completely immersed in the moment.
If you’ve never attended Jazz & Jokes, you might be wondering why it’s not a bigger name in the entertainment scene. We certainly did. However, upon digging deeper, we discovered that this show has been a Tunica staple for the past eight years, hosted annually at Fitz Casino, with roots tracing back to Chuckles Comedy Club.
The audience’s reaction made it clear that this event has a dedicated following. People weren’t just watching them participating, feeding off the energy of the performers and making the night even more memorable.
The only lingering question we had at the end of the night was: Why is it called Jazz & Jokes when the comedy comes first and the music closes the show? Perhaps it’s a nod to traditional jazz performances, where musicians build up to a grand finale. Or maybe, it’s just the perfect combination of two beloved art forms that work better together than apart.
Whatever the reason, one thing is certain—Jazz & Jokes is a must-see event, a hidden gem that offers a night of laughter, music, and unforgettable entertainment. If you haven’t experienced it yet, put it on your list—you won’t regret it.
Published by Drake M.
