Singing Guide: Floyd Cramer
Vocal technique, exercises, tips and relevant resources
Floyd Cramer was an American musician who was known for his captivating piano instrumentals. He was born on October 27 1933 in Shreveport, Louisiana and became a popular pianist and session musician during the 1950s and 1960s. Cramer played a crucial role in shaping one of the most beloved genres of music, the Nashville sound. His unique approach to piano playing combined the elegance of classical music with the rhythm of country music, leading to numerous chart-topping singles and collaborations.
If you aim to learn to play the piano like Floyd Cramer, you will need to master his signature style, which includes using the sustain pedal for a smoother sound and playing unique licks that sound like a guitar. You can start by practicing the basics, like correct fingering and posture, and then move on to more advanced techniques.
One of the most popular songs showcasing Floyd Cramer's style is "Last Date," which is a perfect example of his distinctive licks and use of the sustain pedal. This song is known for its emotional quality and was a chart-topping hit in 1960.
To learn how to play "Last Date" like Floyd Cramer, start by practicing the chords and the rhythm using Singing Carrots' vocal pitch monitor, which will help you hear if you are hitting the correct notes. Use Singing Carrots' pitch training tool to practice vocal warm-ups and get a better understanding of the range of your voice.
To perfect your sustain pedal technique, use Singing Carrots' virtual piano, and practice playing long, flowing notes. Once you are comfortable with the basics, use Singing Carrots' song search tool to find more songs that showcase Floyd Cramer's style.
Remember to keep practicing, dedicating time to learning a new song every week, and honing your skills using Singing Carrots' educational singing course. With time, dedication, and the right tools, you too can learn to play the piano like Floyd Cramer!