Magnolias, Athens’ only piano bar, will awaken tonight with the fingertip mastery of Athens native, Jason Fuller.

Fuller is not the average piano player. His influences cross many genre borders.

“I love blues, funk, rock, Motown, reggae, jazz, New Orleans [Cajun], country, classic rock [and] Latin [music],” Fuller told The Red & Black.

Fuller blends every genre with the voice of his piano. His current album’s title, “GrooveHit-Latin-BluesFunk,” expresses the wide range of avenues that Fuller uses for his music. He describes it as “five songs, five genres.”

Musical diversity inspiresFuller’s passion and drives the sound of his music.

And it is a sound that is undoubtedly unique.

“I’m pretty prideful of the fact that I have played and play with so many different types of bands,” Fuller said.

Among the artists Fuller has played with are American Idol’s Diana DeGarmo, King Daddy Zeb and Charlie Mars Band. In addition to his present solo venture, Fuller plays with the Kinchafoonee Cowboys, the Sensational Sounds of Motown and the Last Waltz Ensemble.

“Currently, in a typical week, I could play rock, country, Motown, blues and funk with five different bands,” he said. “Casual one night, a cowboy hat and boots the next, and a tuxedo the next. Sometimes I feel like a chameleon.”

Fuller’s musical versatility, in part, stems from his roots.

He comes from a rich musical background. Alan Wilson, the guitarist, harmonica player, singer and songwriter for the ’60s band Canned Heat, was Fuller’s uncle. Wilson and his band were recognized for their strong sound. The band played at Woodstock and had two top-10 hits in 1969.

At age 12, Fuller learned he was better when he played by ear than when he read music.

Fuller’s individual sound is a result of this early realization. It brought him to the South and to Magnolias.

“How cool to finally have a piano bar in Athens,” he said. “It’s been a long time coming, and I’ve always wondered how this great music town never had a piano bar. I really hope it catches on with people.”