Writer: Kaela Mason

For about two decades, drummer, composer, and producer PJ Spraggins has built his career rooted in authenticity and connection. His contemporary jazz style combines the melodic and uplifting tone infused by his message with the groove infectious energy of a drummer at heart.

Faith and perseverance guide much of Spraggins’ creative process. His 2023 album Stick It Out emerged from personal trials, including the end of a twenty-year marriage. The record, composed during that period, became both an act of self-encouragement and a message to listeners. “I was reminding myself to remain positive in spite of a not-so-positive situation,” he explained. “Stick it out means holding on through adversity—eventually you come out on the other end.” For Spraggins, music is more than performance; it’s a form of healing for himself and others. Listeners often tell him that songs like Time to Heal have helped them through difficult times.  

As an independent artist, he credits social media as a key tool in connecting with listeners across the world. From drone-shot sunsets paired with his music to building a growing community on TikTok, Spraggins continues to explore how jazz can reach audiences. “I think it’s important for an artist to stay true to themselves,” he shared. “When I make music that I genuinely like, other people usually connect with it too.” 

Spraggins’ career has taken him from touring internationally with artists like two-time Grammy winning vocalist Peabo Bryson to performing at venues such as the Blue Note in Beijing. When he’s not touring or producing beautifully-crafted music, you’ll find PJ serving up the backbeat for a host of highly acclaimed artists you’ll find familiar from the Middle C Jazz stage, like Eric Essix and chart-topping jazz flutist Kim Scott.

His single “High Five” recently climbed to number six on the Billboard Smooth Jazz chart, marking his first charting release. Looking ahead, he plans to release new music at the start of 2026 and continue sharing messages of hope and joy. “Good energy comes back to you,” he said. “If I can make someone’s day a little brighter through my music, that’s what it’s all about.”

Join John Dillard for a return performance of PJ Spraggins on Smooth Sunday, November 16th.

Enjoy a song from the 2024 performance of PJ Spraggins at Middle C Jazz.