The Rise of Cooper Alan: A New Voice in Country Music
When it comes to country music, the Carolinas have long been a hotbed for talent. Names like Randy Travis, Eric Church, and Luke Combs come to mind, but there's one name that is quickly making its mark on the scene—Cooper Alan. At just 29 years old, this Winston-Salem native has already carved out a unique space for himself in the industry, blending his love for classic country with a fresh, modern twist.
From Local Bands to TikTok Sensation
Cooper’s journey into music began long before he became a TikTok sensation. Growing up in North Carolina, he was immersed in a world of live performances and concerts. His first band started in eighth grade, marking the beginning of his musical journey. While he played instruments and performed covers, it wasn’t until later that he began writing his own songs. “Music has always been a big part of my life,” he shares. “I’ve been writing forever; I’ve been playing 4-hour sets for years.”
Despite his early passion, it wasn’t until he moved to Nashville after graduating from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill that he truly began to explore his sound. But it was on TikTok that he found his breakout moment. In March 2020, he downloaded the app and instead of posting covers, he began sharing his signature mash-ups and remixes of nostalgic '90s and '00s hits. These creative reimaginings caught the attention of millions, setting him apart from other artists on the platform.
A Unique Sound That Stands Out
Cooper’s style is hard to categorize. He blends elements of hip-hop, R&B, and rock into his country music, creating a sound that is both familiar and innovative. “Country’s my favorite, but I grew up on so many different types of music,” he explains. “Sampling and remixing have always been a big part of hip hop, R&B, and rap.” His ability to mix genres has made him a standout in the industry, and fans are eager to see what he’ll do next.
The Debut Album: A Reflection of His Journey
In November 2025, Cooper will release his debut album, Winston-Salem. This record is a reflection of his dual-sided personality, showcasing both deep storytelling and high-energy tracks. Side A, titled "Winston," features more introspective songs, while Side B, "Salem," is all about fun and party vibes. “This is how the songs came out of me,” Cooper says. “It’s everything I’ve always loved after growing up listening to AC/DC and Lynyrd Skynyrd, Toby Keith and Eric Church, 50 Cent and Eminem.”
The album includes over a dozen songs, all co-written by Cooper, with six of them already released. Fans can expect a mix of country, blues, rock, and even a pop-rap track. “I’ve always loved to dabble in a little bit of everything, with country being the main theme,” he adds.
Dream Collaborations and Future Goals
Cooper has big dreams for his career, including working with some of his biggest inspirations. He names artists like Dierks Bentley, Kenny Chesney, Eric Church, and Hardy as influences, noting their ability to blend genres and stay true to their creative vision. “They’re totally authentic to what they want to do,” he says. “Those are the artists who just kind of follow their creative compass.”
Beyond country, Cooper also hopes to collaborate with artists like Kid Rock, Eminem, and Hootie and the Blowfish. “I’m just all over the place,” he laughs.
Touring and Building a Family
As Cooper continues to grow his career, he’s also building a family with his wife, Hally. They met in high school, dated in college, and married in 2023. The couple is expecting their first child, a daughter, in December. “This whole thing has just been a pinch-me moment,” he says. “There's nobody better to go on this whole journey with than with Hally.”
Giving Back Through the Cooper Alan Foundation
Amidst his rising success, Cooper remains committed to giving back. He founded The Cooper Alan Foundation to raise awareness and funds for mental health. His first charity event, Good Noise, raised over $400,000 for HopeWay, a mental health facility in Charlotte, North Carolina. In 2026, the event will take place in Nashville, benefiting veteran-support organizations.
“I’ve been doing the therapy thing since college,” Cooper shares. “I think mental health is something to take very seriously—talking about it and destigmatizing it.” He hopes to encourage others to seek help and use his platform to make a difference.
Looking Ahead
With his debut album set to drop, his tour winding down, and a new chapter of fatherhood on the horizon, Cooper Alan is poised for even greater success. His unique sound, dedication to his craft, and commitment to his community make him one of the most exciting new voices in country music today.
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