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 continues to inform his artistic endeavors today. Coleman’s formative years were marked by constant exposure to Cramer’s repertoire from a young age, fostering an innate understanding of musical phrasing and expressive nuance—qualities that would become hallmarks of his distinctive 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. This multi-generational influence underscores Coleman's artistic heritage and contributes to his ability to capture the spirit of bygone eras—a reflection of a musical lineage that transcends geographical boundaries. Coleman’s professional trajectory unfolded as he pursued rigorous formal studies at Belmont University’s Mike Curb College of Entertainment and Music Business, graduating Magna Cum Laude in 2006 with honors. During these formative years, he honed his skills through intensive training while simultaneously cultivating an unwavering passion for exploring diverse musical genres—a testament to his intellectual curiosity and artistic versatility—expanding his musical horizons beyond the confines of traditional piano technique. Following graduation, Coleman embarked on a solo recording career, releasing three albums that showcased his instrumental prowess and stylistic exploration—establishing him as a pianist dedicated 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 testament to his enduring connection with American musical heritage. 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—solidifying his place within Nashville’s musical landscape and cementing his connection to a tradition of melodic piano playing that stretches back 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.