Growing up Black

Jason Floyd Coleman: Echoes of Melody and Legacy

Jason Floyd Coleman’s musical journey began in Nashville, Tennessee, steeped in the profound influence of his grandfather, Floyd Cramer—a pianist celebrated for his distinctive melodic ‘whole-step’ attacks. Born in 1977, Jason carries within him a lineage deeply rooted in American musical tradition, specifically the soulful style championed by Cramer, whose music resonated with timeless beauty and emotional depth. This connection to Cramer's artistry profoundly shaped Coleman’s own approach to piano performance and composition—a stylistic inheritance that would define his artistic vision for decades to come. Coleman’s formative years were characterized by constant exposure to Cramer’s repertoire from a young age, fostering an instinctive grasp of musical phrasing and expressive nuance – qualities that would become central to his signature style. Notably, Jason’s grandfather was himself the grandson of pianist William Cramer, who emigrated from Germany to America in 1879, bringing with him European musical sensibilities—a heritage that broadened Coleman's artistic horizons and contributed to his ability to capture the spirit of bygone eras. This multi-generational influence underscored Coleman's artistic heritage and ensured that he would always strive for excellence within a tradition of melodic piano playing. Coleman’s professional trajectory commenced at Belmont University’s Mike Curb College of Entertainment and Music Business, where he graduated Magna Cum Laude in 2006 with honors—a testament to his dedication to scholarly pursuits alongside his passion for musical artistry. During his studies, he honed his skills through rigorous training while simultaneously exploring diverse genres, demonstrating a remarkable intellectual curiosity and versatility that would serve him well throughout his career. Following graduation, Coleman embarked on a solo recording endeavor, releasing three albums that showcased his instrumental prowess and stylistic exploration—establishing himself as a pianist committed to preserving the legacy of Cramer’s melodic approach. The cornerstone of Coleman's artistic identity is undoubtedly “Unchained Melodies,” his piano show dedicated to performing songs from the 1960s and 70s in the unmistakable style of Floyd Cramer—a stylistic homage that honors his grandfather’s musical vision. This performance series gained considerable popularity, attracting a devoted audience eager to experience music filtered through Cramer's signature technique. Furthermore, Coleman’s weekly online piano concert on WSM Radio has established him as a prominent figure within Nashville’s vibrant music community and garnered millions of views globally—a remarkable achievement that cemented his place in the annals of American piano performance history. Beyond his solo performances, Coleman collaborated with Floyd Cramer in a piano duet during TNN’s “Music City Tonight,” demonstrating his commitment to honoring his grandfather's musical legacy. He also performed alongside Cramer in the studio for Hank Locklin’s final album, marking an unforgettable moment in both artists’ careers—a poignant reminder of their shared passion for music and its ability to transcend generations. Jason Floyd Coleman continues to inspire audiences with his captivating performances and unwavering commitment to preserving the timeless beauty of melody—a legacy born from a profound connection to musical history and artistic tradition.