I had to be crazy to be standing outside in this insane July, Texas heat, just to get a few minutes with a certain Texas artist, but then again, fans do this very thing all the time. So the scene was set, July at midday, 104 outside, and no breeze. I should be back in the VIP trailer, but I couldn't resist seeing this sound-check. Johnny Cooper had always been an artist I had wanted to talk to about his career, and this was going to be my chance. Man it was hot. However, I was here, and I wasn't going anywhere.
An artist who has truly defined his career by his high-energy live show, and fan-friendly music, Johnny Cooper, J-Coop to his followers, definitely has secured a place among the touring faithful. Going into his eighth year as a touring artist, Johnny has no intentions of slowing down. With a crowded schedule of over two-hundred shows a year, Johnny and the band find themselves on the the road more often than at home. As is the case with most of the scenes acts, the road most certainly becomes a home away from home, yet these acts always find time to help out when their number is called. "More than anything, I'm all about trying to help out people through the power of music. It just blows me away, that through the music, how much you can do to help other people." And to me, it seemed almost second nature for Johnny to be involved with Pickin' For Preemies, with this selfless mindset of giving.
When I asked Justin how he viewed Johnny Cooper's involvement he had this to say: "He's a good buddy first of all. That's what makes it easy, whenever I've called to ask, are you in, the answer has always been yes. Johnny is faithful. As with every artist who plays the show every year, it truly is about the message, and how their hearts are tied to it. Johnny has always led the charge on that front, always willing to give his time and himself for the auction." And that really is what it's all about, the selfless giving that's been placed in the fore-front by the artists in this un-definable genre that exists somewhere between Texas and Oklahoma.
With new music always in the works, Johnny Cooper hopes to find himself back in the studio sometime at the end of the year, and yet again, taking his own brand of music to another level. An act that truly cannot be summed up by any one category or genre, Johnny Cooper delivers a funky, brash, rhythm-rich, rockin' and soulful good time. If you've never caught a J-Coop show, then you probably haven't a clue what I'm describing. His youth and experience always deliver, and helps you get a grasp on just how diverse this Texas music scene really is. I'll leave you guys with a look at another great track by this ever-evolving singer/songwriter.
With Labor Day quickly approaching, time is running out for you to get a ticket to be part of this awesome and truly worthy cause. The money raised goes to help Cook Children's Hospital NICU, where families truly have a chance to experience miracles daily. I know where I'll be this September 3rd. Come out for some great music, wonderful fellowship, awesome cause, and some unforgettable good times. This is Texas Red Dirt Roads.
For more on Johnny Cooper visit: Johnny Cooper
To purchase tickets for Pickin' For Preemies visit: Pickin' For Preemies
Adiós,
Aaron Bentley
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