We were lucky to catch up with Cindy Cooper recently and have shared our conversation below.

Alright, Cindy thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. We’d love to hear about when you first realized that you wanted to pursue a creative path professionally.

My love for music was born at home, long before I ever stepped on a stage. My father, a trained and degreed music teacher, filled our house with melodies and method. My mother, with her natural gift for song, made every room feel like a concert hall. Music wasn’t just something we listened to—it was part of the air we breathed.

One day, while I was singing to myself, my mother stopped in her tracks. Her eyes filled with tears—she said she couldn’t believe what she was hearing. From that moment on, she became my biggest fan, and her emotional reactions reminded me that music could touch something deep in the soul.

At Cadwalader Asbury United Methodist Church, that spark was fanned into flame. The church family quickly noticed my gift and often asked me to lead songs or sing solos during worship. My father would accompany me on piano, and my brother—also a gifted player—would often join in. Whether it was a Sunday service, a wedding, or a community event, we were a family making music together, and those early moments laid the foundation for everything that came after.

As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?

Music has always felt like home. From the very first notes I sang in church as a child, something deep inside of me lit up—and that fire only grew stronger. As I followed that passion, doors began to open in ways I could never have imagined. I found myself surrounded by professional musicians who not only believed in my gift but pushed me to dream even bigger.

One of those key moments came when celebrity manager Vernon Hammond introduced me to Emmy-winning producer Bill Jolly and members of the legendary Philadelphia International Records family. Suddenly, I was in rooms with giants—cutting demos for icons like Phyllis Hyman, Anita Baker, and Earth, Wind & Fire by way of Songwriter Skip Scarborough and being featured alongside Grammy-winner Billy Paul. Then came Showtime at the Apollo, where I took home the win, followed by tours singing background for the greats—Patti LaBelle and Teddy Pendergrass—across the U.S. and South America. Lastly, I toured with Stephen Caldwell and the Orlons, of which I am currently a member.

I became a staple in the Philadelphia music scene, known for my powerful voice and dynamic range, adding soul and fire to performances with Kim Burrell, Donnie McClurkin, Shirley Caesar, and more. My journey with music has always been about exploration—not just of notes and lyrics, but of my own gifts and the calling on my life. That pursuit led me to celebrity vocal coach Dr. Owen Brown Jr., the genius behind voices like Mary J. Blige, Stevie Wonder, and Luther Vandross. Under his guidance, I’ve learned how to care for my voice, my health, and prepare like a pro for any stage.

Now, with the support of Red39 Records, I’m finally stepping into a dream I’ve carried for years—recording my first solo gospel album. I’ve also had the joy of performing with the We Rize Up, Cindy Cooper and Friends, the SSML Band, Soul Purpose Band, and Mr. Bill Meyers from the Monitors.
This journey has been wild, humbling, and sacred—and the best chapters are still being written.

In your view, what can society to do to best support artists, creatives and a thriving creative ecosystem?

Society should support their local music community by going out and seeing live artists perform, buying their merchandise, and music.

Is there a particular goal or mission driving your creative journey?

My goal is to share my music and message with people who may be going through difficult and challenging times.
I also want to bring people hope and encouragement.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.cindycoopermusic.com
• Instagram: /https://www.instagram.com/cindycoopermusic/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=10006403764719:1
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cynthia-cooper-powell-873822101/
• Youtube: @cynthiacooper7414

Image Credits

Dwayne Keith Photography First Picture featured picture

All other pictures taken by Cindy Cooper
Except Orlon’s picture taken by Mr. Stephen Caldwell the originator of the Orlons