Episode Summary: "A Journey Through Love and Music with Kolby Cooper"
Podcast: takin' a walk
Host: Buzz Knight
Guest: Colby Cooper
Release Date: April 17, 2025
Introduction: Welcoming Colby Cooper
In this episode of takin' a walk, Buzz Knight welcomes Colby Cooper, a rising star in country music signed with BMG Nashville. Known for his heartfelt storytelling and electrifying performances, Colby shares insights into his musical journey, personal life, and the creation of his latest album, Love You Good Night.
Early Life and Hometown Influence
Colby opens up about his humble beginnings in Bradford, Texas, a small town with a population of approximately 35 residents. He explains how growing up on his grandfather's farm and the close-knit community shaped his songwriting and musical identity.
Colby Cooper [04:04]: "Bradford is really like my grandpa's farm and a couple spots right outside of it... the isolation and the loneliness out here... everybody's story, you know, everything that's going on."
The environment of Bradford provided rich material for his love songs and narratives about relationships, heavily influencing his lyrical themes.
Musical Influences and Creation Process
Colby discusses a diverse range of musical influences that have shaped his sound, blending outlaw country with southern rock. He mentions legends like Waylon Jennings and Chris Ledoux as foundational inspirations, alongside rock bands such as Guns N' Roses and Texas country artists like Randy Rogers and Wade Bowen.
Colby Cooper [06:17]: "I try to just take from everything... rap, old school rap, everything. I'm a big music fan in general."
His appreciation for vinyl records also plays a significant role in his approach to music, emphasizing the importance of creating cohesive albums that offer a complete listening experience.
Colby Cooper [08:31]: "I want to be able to put it on the vinyl and just sit back and then flip it and sit back, not have to get up."
Life as a Touring Musician and Work-Life Balance
Balancing a full-time touring schedule with family life presents significant challenges for Colby. He shares the emotional toll of being away from his three young children and the rapid changes they experience during his absences.
Colby Cooper [12:46]: "It's a big challenge... I have three babies... they grow up a lot when I'm on the road."
Despite the hardships, Colby expresses gratitude for being able to pursue his passion while providing for his family, highlighting the fulfillment it brings him.
Colby Cooper [13:30]: "I feel blessed because... all that I wanted was to play music and have a family."
Debut Album: Boy from Anderson County to the Moon
Colby's debut project, Boy from Anderson County to the Moon, marked a significant breakthrough in his career. The album blends two EPs—Boyfriends and County and To the Moon—capturing his identity and the camaraderie of his touring crew.
Colby Cooper [14:53]: "It describes me like I'm a boy from Anderson County... To the Moon is how me and all our dudes in the crew, we're like a family."
The project reflects his roots and the strong bonds formed through years of touring, emphasizing themes of love, friendship, and community.
Creation of New Album: Love You Good Night
Colby delves into the two-year process of creating his latest album, Love You Good Night. Collaborating with producers and writers like Andrew Bayless, Michael Whitworth, Riley Thomas, and Dan Pellerin, Colby aimed to craft a cohesive and meaningful record.
Colby Cooper [16:06]: "We were thinking so much about how the songs would fit together and what kind of story we'd tell."
He shares anecdotes behind specific tracks, illustrating the personal and spontaneous nature of his songwriting. For instance, "Empty Handed" was birthed from his first solo recording experience, while "Apartment 208" was inspired by a memorable flight and subsequent reflections.
Colby Cooper [22:45]: "It's called Love You Good Night because of the end of it... the very last words on the record is, 'Linda, good night.'"
Favorite Tracks and Stories Behind Them
Colby highlights several favorite songs from Love You Good Night, each with its unique backstory:
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Empty Handed ([17:42]): A solo-authored track capturing his experience of moving from Tyler, Texas, and embracing independence both personally and musically.
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Apartment 208 ([17:42]): Inspired by a late-night flight on Father's Day, this song explores themes of loneliness and coping mechanisms, reflecting a pivotal moment of vulnerability.
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Love You Good Night ([22:45]): The title track delves into longing and the bittersweet nature of being away from loved ones, encapsulating the emotional core of the album.
Closing Remarks: Looking Ahead
Buzz Knight wraps up the conversation by congratulating Colby on his new music and acknowledging his promising future in the music industry.
Buzz Knight [23:26]: "Congratulations on the new music and on the current state of affairs, which is only going to continue to get brighter for your musical career."
Colby expresses his gratitude for the opportunity to share his story and looks forward to future endeavors.
Colby Cooper [23:41]: "I appreciate you having me, man. It means a lot."
Conclusion
This episode of takin' a walk offers an intimate glimpse into Colby Cooper's life as a musician balancing personal aspirations with family commitments. Through engaging storytelling and candid reflections, Colby illustrates the depth of his passion for music and the enduring influence of his roots. Listeners gain a deeper understanding of his artistic process, the significance of his latest album, and the poignant realities of life on the road.
Notable Quotes:
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"I want to be able to put it on the vinyl and just sit back and then flip it and sit back, not have to get up."
— Colby Cooper [08:31] -
"It's a big challenge... I have three babies... they grow up a lot when I'm on the road."
— Colby Cooper [12:46] -
"It describes me like I'm a boy from Anderson County... To the Moon is how me and all our dudes in the crew, we're like a family."
— Colby Cooper [14:53] -
"I try to just take from everything... rap, old school rap, everything. I'm a big music fan in general."
— Colby Cooper [06:17]
Thank you for reading this summary of the "A Journey Through Love and Music with Kolby Cooper" episode of takin' a walk. For more insights and episodes, subscribe to the podcast on iHeartRadio or your preferred podcast platform.