Considered both an inspired and novelty act, Coleman developed a unique percussion sound as he toured popular tourist attractions in Texas but preferred to perform on the streets rather than lucrative stage venues.

Coleman was engaged by the city's jazz scene, and began his career by accompanying local musicians on piano, including Sammy Davis Jr.[2] In the 1940s, in Houston, he spent time in bands at a number of locales.

[4] One song from the album, "Innocent Little Doggy", became an underground classic in Texas, as well as in England.

[3] A low-profile but well-respected musician, Coleman occasionally participated at more prominent events such as the HemisFair, New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival, and Gerald Ford's presidential campaign in 1976.

[3] Coleman's music career ended abruptly in the early 1990s when he was diagnosed with diabetes and kidney disease.