Name: Cooper Riley
Birthplace: Memphis, TN
Current Residence: Nashville, TN
Music Style: Blues-infused country 
Website/Social Media Links:
Website: cooperrileymusic.com 
Instagram: @cooperrileymusic 
TikTok: @cooper_rileymusic

About Cooper Riley: Growing up in Memphis with a musical family, emerging singer-songwriter Cooper Riley was surrounded by soulful storytelling. Drawn to the sounds that scored his upbringing, he puts a bluesy twist on classic country elements to create a lane all his own. At age 18, Cooper fully immersed himself in songwriting and recording. Working on his first release, “Why Why Why,” pushed the songsmith vocally and revealed a range and flexibility he hadn’t yet tapped into. Inspired by the stylings of John Mayer, Chris Stapleton, and B.B. King, among others, he draws from personal experiences, observations, his faith, and more when making music — bringing his lyrics to life with chord progressions and freestyle sessions.

Tell us about your newest project. What was the inspiration behind it and where can we check it out? I released my latest single, “Outta Time,” on May 1. I wrote it because, sometimes in this industry, it can feel like all you’re doing is putting in time and watching the clock tick in front of your face. If you focus more on the time you’re spending instead of learning and growing, time can actually hold you back. It can either work for you or against you — and I choose for it to work for me. The song is available on all streaming platforms, so you can check it out anywhere you listen to music!

How would you describe your music? (artists with similar sound) I would describe my music and songwriting style as a mix of Kameron Marlowe, John Mayer, and Keith Urban.

How did you get started? I’ve been singing since I learned to speak. In middle school, I sang in the Memphis boys choir, and I’ve been playing piano since I was 13. I’ve also played guitar on and off since I was a kid.

Who are your biggest musical influences?  Some of my biggest musical influences include Keith Whitley, Chris Stapleton, John Mayer, and Randy Travis.

Do you have any other influences? Yes — many of my relatives on my mom’s side of the family can either sing, play an instrument, or both. My childhood piano teacher, Mrs. Culbreath, was also influential. She spent a lot of time teaching me how to read music, perform in front of an audience, and begin writing my own songs.

If you could change anything about the industry, what would it be? I’d like to see streaming services create more opportunities for artists to receive better financial support.

What sets you apart from other artists in your genre? I think my bluesy, soulful approach to country music helps set me apart.

What is it about music that makes you feel passionate? There are so many emotions in music that connect to different moments in life. The ability to tap into personal experiences and memories is what makes me feel passionate.

What’s next for you? I plan to collaborate with some great songwriters and release more new music this year, in addition to playing some shows this summer.

What are your career goals in the next five years? Over the next five years, I want to keep working on new music, spend more time on the road, and connect with more people.