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 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. 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 Cramer's melodic tradition. 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 distinctive technique while simultaneously forging his own unique artistic voice. The cornerstone of Coleman’s artistic identity is undoubtedly “Unchained Melodies,” his piano show devoted 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 solidified his position as one of Nashville’s most recognizable pianists. “I strive to let the melody of the song shine through,” Jason explains, “and that lets listeners fill in the words in their own heads and hearts.” He envisions his music as a conduit for connecting audiences with memories and cherished relationships from past generations—a sentiment deeply rooted in his personal experience and informed by his grandfather’s enduring influence. 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.