Floyd Cramer was a celebrated American pianist who left an indelible mark on the Nashville sound, a blend of smooth country music with pop sensibilities that emerged in the 1950s and 1960s. Born on October 27, 1933, in Shreveport, Louisiana, Cramer grew up in the small town of Huttig, Arkansas, where he began playing piano at an early age. His distinctive playing style, characterized by what came to be known as the "slip note" or "bent note" piano technique, made him one of the most sought-after session musicians in Nashville during the peak of his career.

Cramer's career soared with hits like "Last Date" in 1960, which became a signature tune that epitomized his slip note style. He contributed to the success of numerous recordings by artists such as Patsy Cline, Elvis Presley, and Roy Orbison, embodying the very essence of the Nashville sound. Throughout his career, Cramer released a series of albums that showcased his versatility in genres ranging from country to pop and blues. His works, such as "Jolly Cholly," "The Slip Note Piano Style," and "Country & Blues Piano," among others, highlight a prolific career that continued to influence musicians long after his passing on December 31, 1997. Floyd Cramer's legacy as a pioneer of the Nashville sound and a master of the piano endures, celebrated in collections and compilations that capture the breadth and depth of his contributions to American music.

Genres

Easy Listening

Honky-tonk Piano

Nashville Sound

Related Artists

Lawrence Welk

Ronnie Aldrich

The Browns

Percy Faith & His Orchestra

Russ Conway

Jerry Wallace

Pat Boone

Frankie Laine

Roy Clark

Jim Reeves

Sonny James

Slim Whitman

Latest Release

Jolly Cholly

Floyd Cramer

Album - 8 Tracks - Released May 5, 2023