Pat Coil: The Versatile Keyboardist of Jazz and Pop Fusion

Pat Coil is an American keyboardist, composer, and producer renowned for his sophisticated work across jazz, pop, and session music. Hailing from Nashville, Tennessee, he built a formidable career both as a solo artist and as a highly sought-after collaborator with major industry names.

Early career

Pat Coil's professional journey began in the late 1970s after his studies at the University of Miami. He quickly integrated into the vibrant session scene, first gaining notice for his technical skill and musical adaptability. His early work included touring and recording with artists like The Imperials, which established his reputation in the contemporary Christian and pop genres.

Breakthrough

Coil's profile rose significantly through his long-term association with singer Michael McDonald, beginning in the early 1990s. His role as keyboardist and musical director for McDonald placed him at the forefront of the blue-eyed soul and rock world. This high-visibility position led to increased session demand and paved the way for his own solo projects.

Key tracks

From the Ashes — This 1994 solo album title track showcases Coil's compositional depth and fusion of jazz harmony with accessible melodies.

Take Me to Your Heart — A smooth jazz staple from his solo work that received consistent airplay on specialized radio formats.

I Can Let Go Now — Coil's poignant piano work is central to this classic Michael McDonald ballad, highlighting his supportive artistry.

Minute by Minute — His live performances of this Doobie Brothers hit with McDonald demonstrate his impeccable feel for groove and texture.

Throughout the 2000s and beyond, Pat Coil remained a first-call session player in Nashville and Los Angeles. He contributed to albums by a diverse array of artists including Kenny Loggins, Amy Grant, and James Ingram. His parallel career in jazz saw collaborations with luminaries like drummer Peter Erskine, further solidifying his standing in multiple musical communities.

Pat Coil's style finds common ground with other skilled pianist-composers from the United States. David Benoit shares his affinity for melodic contemporary jazz and crossover appeal. Jeff Lorber parallels Coil's seamless blend of jazz fusion with electronic and R&B elements. Michael McDonald is directly linked through years of collaborative work and a shared soulful sensibility. Larry Carlton mirrors his elite session musician status and genre-blending guitar and keyboard instrumentation.

Pat Coil's catalog is a fixture on many jazz and classic hits radio stations. His recordings, both solo and as a sideman, are regularly featured on smooth jazz FM stations, adult contemporary channels, and online radio streams dedicated to instrumental prowess.

The music of Pat Coil, from his own fusion projects to his iconic session work, is featured on radio stations available through our network. Listeners can discover his versatile playing across multiple genres by tuning into the jazz and classic rock stations streaming on onairium.com.