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10 Questions with ... Steven Cooper
May 21, 2012
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BRIEF CAREER SYNOPSIS:
LABEL:
- Urbpop Records
DISCOGRAPHY:
- Life & Love (2012)
- My Time - Album (2010)
1. Give us a quick recap on your musical journey.
I started doing music back in high school after a friend of mine dared me to write my first rap song. I ended up performing it for the school's talent show and got a standing ovation for it. Shortly after I was connecting with local talent and selling my demo CDs to anyone who would listen. It wasn't long before I was connected with some great people in the industry who taught me how to manage my career and begin building a solid group of supporters.
2. What's the story behind the single "Bigger"?
I'm all about gaining influence and inspiring people to be better versions of themselves. There are many artists giving false messages to a mass audience simply because they have mass influence. I want to compete with those messages and offer truth to the rap genre. No one can achieve that influence without first garnering recognition. I wrote this song to remind me to dream BIG and to remind others to think BIG for Christ
3. What can we expect from the upcoming album Life & Love, lyrically and/or sonically? What distinguishes you as an artist?
I think the title of this album says it all. I wanted this album to be filled with very raw and transparent content. The first songs on the album were written during a transitioning time in my life where I was dealing with a lot of different emotions: doubts, struggles, letdowns and everything in between. Toward the end of making this album I began overcoming a lot of these feelings and seeing things in a new light. I think this transition makes for a wonderful journey that is portrayed in each song.
4. Is there a theme or message that runs throughout the new album?
I think the message throughout this album is simple: finding yourself and following God is not a one-night accomplishment. Everyone walks a different path and for some it may take longer than others. This journey, although it hasn't always been positive, has allowed me to find peace and go deeper with myself and with God.
5. What inspires you or challenges you to keep on with your music?
It's no secret that music has power to relate to people on a very deep level. I love seeing someone pop on a song and watch their entire mood change; that's the Holy Spirit speaking to people. Or I hear how a song helped them through a certain time in their life. These responses to music keep me motivated to create inspiring music for Christ that relates to people in a real way.
6. Do you have a favorite place to perform?
So far my favorite place to perform was on Jeju Island in South Korea. The entire island was formed from a volcano and is such a beautiful place. To see it made me realize how BIG God is and the wonderful places he's created. The people of South Korea were unbelievably loving and full of life. I don't think I've ever had so much fun on tour!
7. Who inspires you personally and spiritually?
My fiancée seems to inspire me daily. She is such a loving and caring person who has shown me what grace is like in an every day application. She encourages me to go deeper, be stronger, and rise above all aspects of my life and faith.
8. Is there one song that you wish you had written?
"Waiting On The World To Change" by John Mayer
9. Fill in the blank: I can't start the day without:
Coffee, coffee, coffee. I kind of have a Starbucks addiction. Don't worry; I'm working on it!
10. Do you have much time to check out other artists' music? What are you listening to right now?
I love checking out new music in all styles. Every chance I get I'm searching through Spotify trying to find a new sound. I love all genres of music.
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