Jazz Man Sculpture

Bradley Cooley, Jr.’s life-sized sculpture titled “The Jazz Man” is located in the Market Area on FAMU Way between Conklin and Pinellas Streets. Thanks to support from a community group led by former County Commissioner Mary Ann Lindley, “The Jazz Man” was finally realized as part of the History and Culture Trail. The Cooley family has created other life-size bronze statues of musicians including Ray Charles and Otis Redding. Cooley created “The Jazz Man” to commemorate Tallahassee's rich jazz legacy and pays tribute to local legends like Nat and Julian “Cannonball” Adderley who have called the area home. Internationally acclaimed local musician and Director of The Count Basie Orchestra Scotty Barnhart served as the model for the sculpture’s body and hands. Depicting an ageless musician poised to play, the piece symbolizes the enduring spirit of jazz. Residents near FAMU Way fondly recall legendary performances at venues such as the Ship Ahoy, Savoy Club, Peppermint Patio, Hillside Fountainette, and The Harrison Inn.