Growing up Black

Jason Floyd Coleman: Echoes of Melody and Legacy

Jason Floyd Coleman’s musical journey began in Nashville, Tennessee, deeply rooted 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 profoundly shaped by American musical tradition, specifically Cramer's soulful style, whose music resonated with timeless beauty and emotional depth. This connection to Cramer’s artistry fundamentally molded Coleman’s own approach to piano performance and composition—a dedication to honoring a musical heritage that transcends generations. Coleman’s formative years were characterized by constant exposure to Cramer’s repertoire from childhood, fostering an innate understanding of musical phrasing and expressive nuance—qualities that would become defining features of his distinctive artistic voice. Notably, Cramer himself was the grandson of pianist William Cramer, who emigrated from Germany to America in 1879, introducing European musical sensibilities into Coleman's family history. This multi-generational influence underscores Coleman’s artistic heritage and contributes significantly to his ability to capture the spirit of bygone eras—a stylistic awareness that distinguishes him as an artist. 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 nurturing a fervent passion for exploring diverse musical genres—a testament to his intellectual curiosity and artistic versatility. 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 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 reflecting his unwavering commitment to sharing his grandfather’s musical legacy with audiences worldwide. Coleman’s performances are marked by a deliberate simplicity: he prioritizes letting the melody of each song shine through, allowing listeners to fill in the words with their own emotions and interpretations—a philosophy rooted in Cramer's belief that music should inspire contemplation and connection. He has performed extensively across the United States, captivating audiences with his mesmerizing piano magic and establishing himself as a respected artist within Nashville’s musical landscape. 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.