The Northeastern New Mexico town of Tucumcari is best known in song for its destination calling in Little Feat’s “Willin.” Under the radar but highly respected singer-songwriter Dana Cooper has been allowing images to form with his poetic words for decades. Yet, he’s still unraveling new Americana tapestries in his sound with his highly anticipated 32nd studio album, The Ghost of Tucumcari, on May 17, 2024.
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Background of the Album
- Featured Artists
- Song Premiere: “The Ghost of Tucumcari”
- Artist’s Inspiration
Background of the Album
Featuring an All-Star lineup of guest artists, the album marks a major achievement for the veteran musician after over 50 years in the business.
Featured Artists
Artists lending their voices to this project are Lyle Lovett, Hayes Carll, Susan Gibson, Mando Saenz, Darden Smith, Shake Russell, Libby Koch, and more.
Song Premiere: “The Ghost of Tucumcari”
Glide is premiering the title track, which crackles with a mysterious energy that would make for the background music of a David Lynch film, where dreamlike patterns form out of the subconscious. With Lyle Lovett on vocals, the track encapsulates the essence of true Americana.
Artist’s Inspiration
“We were checking into a little motel in Tucumcari late on a cold night. Spied a smoky gray, battle-scarred Tom cat, his ears half chewed off, limping up to a dumpster. The lid was open and he wanted to jump up but just couldn’t make it in the shape he was in. I followed him with some food but he disappeared across the highway. Next day I was haunted by that forlorn cat and wrote the lyrics while driving down the road,” says Cooper.
Read More: Glide Magazine.
Learn More About Dana
Dana Cooper is an American singer-songwriter who has been described as a masterful storyteller and a gifted musician. With a career spanning over four decades, he has released numerous albums and gained a loyal following of fans who appreciate his poetic lyrics and soulful melodies. Cooper’s music is a blend of folk, Americana, and rock influences, and his songs often explore themes of love, loss, and the human experience.
Born in Missouri, Cooper began writing songs at a young age and honed his craft by playing in local clubs and coffeehouses. His early influences include artists like Bob Dylan, Joni Mitchell, and Neil Young, who inspired him to explore the power of storytelling through music. Cooper’s songs are characterized by their emotional depth and vivid imagery, drawing listeners in with their honest and introspective lyrics.
Throughout his career, Cooper has collaborated with a diverse range of artists, including Nanci Griffith, Guy Clark, and Pierce Pettis. He has also performed at numerous music festivals and venues across the country, earning critical acclaim for his dynamic live performances and compelling stage presence. Cooper’s ability to connect with audiences on a personal level has made him a beloved figure in the singer-songwriter community.
In addition to his music career, Cooper is also a respected music educator and mentor. He has taught songwriting workshops and classes at universities and music schools, sharing his knowledge and experience with aspiring musicians. Cooper’s passion for teaching is evident in his dedication to helping others discover their own unique voice and artistic vision.
One of the defining characteristics of Cooper’s music is his ability to capture the complexities of human emotion in his lyrics. His songs often touch on universal themes such as love, longing, and redemption, resonating with listeners on a deep and personal level. Cooper’s storytelling prowess and emotional authenticity have earned him a reputation as a true poet of the modern folk scene.
Cooper’s discography includes a wide range of albums, each showcasing his evolution as an artist and songwriter. From his early folk roots to his more recent forays into rock and blues, Cooper’s music is a testament to his versatility and creativity. His most recent album, “Incendiary Kid,” was released to critical acclaim and features some of his most captivating and introspective songs to date.
In a music industry that often prioritizes commercial success over artistic integrity, Cooper stands out as a rare and authentic voice. His commitment to creating music that is honest, soulful, and meaningful has earned him a dedicated following of fans who appreciate his artistry and musicianship. Cooper’s music is a testament to the power of storytelling and the enduring appeal of folk and Americana music.
As a singer-songwriter, Cooper has faced many challenges and obstacles throughout his career, but his resilience and passion for music have always guided him through tough times. His dedication to his craft and his unwavering commitment to his artistic vision have earned him the respect of his peers and the admiration of his fans. Cooper’s music serves as a testament to the enduring power of storytelling and the universal language of music.
Dana Cooper is a singer-songwriter whose music transcends genres and labels, speaking to the core of the human experience with grace and honesty. His songs are imbued with a rare depth and emotional intensity, drawing listeners in with their poignant narratives and haunting melodies. Cooper’s influence on the singer-songwriter community is profound, and his legacy as a masterful storyteller and musician will continue to inspire and resonate for years to come.