Who Is Kolby Cooper? The Story Behind His Journey to Country Music

A little over a week ago, we introduced you to a new artist in country music, Kolby Cooper. His major-label debut project Boy From Anderson County is currently one of our favorites of 2021. We chatted with Cooper about his EP and his journey to country music. Learn more about the newcomer below.

Growing up in Bradford in East Texas, Cooper lived a typical country boy lifestyle. The singer recalls growing up on a ranch and riding horses as a young kid. Of course, country music was all he listened to at first. “My dad was always playing Texas Country,” he tells us. “He also introduced me to southern rock and I kinda took that and ran with it.

It was not until Cooper turned thirteen that he really considered playing music himself. “Around 13 or so I started playing music and I kinda figured out that it felt a lot cooler to play music than it did to go be a nurse or to do whatever I was planning on doing in college,” shared the singer.

During this time in his childhood, the singer lost his father to his battle with cancer. “We really bonded over music, so I think it definitely drove me to want to make music.” Additionally, the singer shared, “It just felt right. It was something he was proud of me for doing.”

With blessings from both his mother and his then girlfriend (now wife), Cooper put college on hold to pursue his dream. Combining his love for country music, like his favorite Waylon Jennings, and rock bands like Blink 182 and Nirvana, Cooper was destined to create a sound all his own. 

The Turning Point:

Just out of high school, the singer was able to capitalize on his one-of-a-kind talent. He amassed over 100 million streams prior to his debut major-label release. “For the first time in a few years, I took a couple of minutes to think about it and I was like damn, I’m right where I’m supposed to be and I’m doing what I’m meant to do,” shared the singer, reflecting on his journey thus far.

Cooper later added, “There’s been a lot of amazing moments. Whether it be playing our first decent size show […] all the way to playing our first big sold-out show.” Both personally and professionally, Cooper could not be happier with where he is now. He credits his wife and two young daughters for all that he has been able to accomplish so far.

Today:

Cooper created his EP, Boy From Anderson County from the joy he was feeling. “I wanted to make a happy record.” Adding later, “I wanted to kinda show anyone who didn’t know who I was or fans who do know who I am, I wanted to show where I am in my life.”

Although Cooper truly loves all six songs off his project, the singer-songwriter identified the title track and “Way To Go” as two standouts. With the latter, “I really go to explore musically areas that I haven’t gone before.” For the autobiographical tune “Boy From Anderson County,” Cooper got to share his full truth with his fans.

Similarly, the comedic and clever song “Her Favorite Songs” also pulled from a real-life experience. “Every song I write, it’s pulling from some real story, whether it be my story or someone else’s,” declares the rising star.

Fans can gear up for the full-length version of Boy From Anderson County slated to come out at the top of 2022. Cooper also promises that he will continue to hit the road hard, touring as much as he can throughout the rest of the year.

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