Check out our exclusive interview with Latoya Cooper.
R&B Rhythms is here with Latoya Cooper, how’s it going?
Hi R&B Rhythms, it is going well. I am grateful for each day and each opportunity. I am staying busy with music, which is a blessing!
Tell me a little bit about how you got your start in music and who are some of your musical influences.
I started singing at three, it is in my blood, it’s part of how I breathe each day. I was born in Oklahoma where there was a scarce music scene. Like most local natives, I was left to my own devices and forced to find an alternative route to share my music and talent. One of those outlets was the local pageant circuit, which was very rewarding. It helped me build my performance skills and pay for college. Teena Marie is everything to me– love her! I also found early inspiration from pioneers such as Nancy Wilson and Anita Baker and contemporary luminaries like Mary J. Blige, who all helped to shape my identity as a recording artist today.
You have your new single entitled Love Affair. Tell me a little bit about the single and how it came together for you.
‘Love Affair’ was written from the heart for the heart. The lyrics came to me on my 33rd birthday. I was sitting back reflecting on how my love for music has helped bring me through so much in life. The song is my thank you to God for the gift of music. For listeners the song could be a thank you for something completely different. It’s why I love the song. I wrote ‘Love Affair’ several years ago and attempted to record it three different times, but I did not feel the past recordings reflected the true beauty of the song until this last collaboration with Bailey Graham, an engineer and producer located in Arlington, Texas, who was able to hear the artistic vision I was going for. We teamed up and the rest is history!
Do you have any other upcoming videos?
Several people have asked if I will be releasing any new music videos on my YouTube Page (Latoya Cooper “The Songstress”). I would love to, but plan to hold off until my full album is complete.
Do you have any upcoming projects set to drop?
Yes, every year during the month of June I release a new song. I have been releasing music in June for the past 3 years and plan to continue the tradition. The June 2018 single has already been drafted and is in the mixing phase. Early 2019 I plan to start working on my first full album, now that I am clear on my style and sound. Working now to build out my team, funding and strategy for the project. I have a project management background so getting started early with a proposed plan is key for me, I want it to be a success! Also, I am the founder of “Music Meets The Boardroom.com” Workshops where I help aspiring artist find their purpose, self-empowerment and strategy to execute God’s vision for their gift. I love to teach the business in addition to singing, writing and performing music. More info can be found at www.musicmeetstheboardroom.com.
What are your current thoughts on the state of the music industry?
There is so much change happening right now. I feel there is dust that needs to settle to get a clear depiction of where the industry is going next. I will say it’s more about the business side of the craft now than ever. I just returned from attending the Grammy Awards for the first time and it changed my whole prospective and vision as an artist for the better. Knowing who you are as an artist is key. It truly helps to keep your craft grounded and focused even when the industry is going through so many changes. I do think we will start to see more full albums produced than in the past, the market is ready for it once again.
What is currently playing on your playlist musically?
I am a big fan of Sade and London Grammar, both artist have similar styles and I can’t get enough of their music. I can listen to their music for hours.
Do you have any shows or tour dates?
Yes, The Wine Therapist (Feb 16th – Dallas) , Deep Ellum Art Company (Mar. 21st – Dallas), The Groove ( May 25th – New York City), Uptown Soul Lounge (June 29th – New York City). The full list of all of my shows and tour dates can be found on my website www.latoyasongstresscooper.com.
Appreciate the interview, any last words or shout outs?
Music is powerful! I believe that by realizing my own musical dreams and living with true purpose and without regrets, I hope to inspire my audience and fans to reach and fulfill God’s vision for their own purpose-filled life. Thank you for the opportunity R&B Rhythms, I am looking forward to bringing you more music very soon!