Country singer, Cooper Alan, has been making waves in the music industry, and he is gearing up to release his highly anticipated album. At just 29 years old, Cooper Alan has already amassed a dedicated following, with over 10 million followers on TikTok. In an exclusive interview with PEOPLE, the North Carolina native shared insights into his musical journey and the transformative impact of social media on his career.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(jpeg)/cooper-alan-030525-tout-ce433885ee674aeab952168758fe95e4.jpg)
Alan’s love for music dates back to his early teenage years when he formed a cover band with friends in eighth grade. The thrill of performing live ignited his passion for music, leading him to continue his musical pursuits through college at the University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill. Despite studying business, Alan’s heart was set on a career in music, prompting him to make the bold decision to move to Nashville upon graduation.
Following his move to Nashville in 2018, Cooper Alan initially sought a record deal but pivoted his approach as the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted the music industry. Embracing the power of TikTok, Alan witnessed a significant breakthrough with his song “New Normal” going viral in August 2020, propelling him to newfound fame and success. The platform not only expanded his reach but also empowered him to create and share music that resonated authentically with his audience.
Reflecting on the profound impact of TikTok on his career, Cooper Alan acknowledges the platform’s role in democratising music discovery and fan engagement. It allowed him to connect with listeners on a deeper level and cultivate a genuine following that values his artistry. Leveraging this momentum, Alan took a bold step by establishing his own record label, Cooped Up Records, in June 2021, enabling him to retain creative control and artistic freedom.
In addition to his musical pursuits, Cooper Alan remains committed to giving back to the community through the Cooper Alan Foundation. The foundation, which focuses on mental health advocacy, reflects Alan’s personal journey with therapy and the importance of prioritising mental well-being in the demanding music industry. By using his platform to raise awareness and funds for mental health support, Alan aims to make a positive impact beyond the realm of music.
The launch of the Cooper Alan Foundation was marked with a successful fundraising event in Charlotte, raising over $400,000 for mental health organisations. As Alan continues to release new music and prepare for his upcoming tour, To The Bar Tour, he plans to allocate proceeds towards supporting his foundation’s initiatives. Engaging with fans during live performances remains a highlight for Alan, as he cherishes the opportunity to share his music and connect with supporters face-to-face.
Looking ahead, Cooper Alan’s musical journey shows no signs of slowing down, with plans to release his debut full-length album later this year. Featuring a blend of soulful country music and heartfelt messages, the album promises to showcase Alan’s diverse influences and personal experiences. Inspired by his wife, Hally Williams Cooper, and his family, Alan aims to deliver authentic and relatable songs that resonate with audiences.
As Cooper Alan continues to evolve as an artist and philanthropist, his unwavering dedication to music and mental health advocacy serves as a testament to his multifaceted talent and genuine passion. With a growing fan base and a promising future ahead, Alan remains poised to leave a lasting impact on the country music scene and beyond.
In conclusion, Cooper Alan’s story exemplifies the power of authenticity, resilience, and community in shaping a successful music career. Through his music and philanthropic endeavours, he not only entertains audiences but also advocates for important causes, inspiring others to embrace their true selves and make a positive difference in the world.