Q.crepe myrtle has no leaves or buds
It is middle April in Tennessee and my crepe myrtle has no leaves or buds. I planted the crepe myrtle last year and it is still has no buds nor leaves on it. Is it dead?

I would say it's too soon to worry. Plants and trees have their own timelines for awakening in spring (which can differ from year to year depending on how cold/hard winter you had), which oftentimes do not jive with our expectations. So for now I am just going to prescribe a little patience!
However, if you are really worried and want peace of mind you can do a scratch test on the trunk of the tree and see if there is green underneath.
For more information on crepe myrtle, please visit the following link:
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/trees/crepe-myrtle/crepe-myrtle-care.htm