Local Boy Cooper Alan's 'Winston-Salem': A Deep Dive into His Debut Album

Cooper Alan has spent years crafting singles and EPs, and now he's unveiling a more intimate side with his debut album, 'Winston-Salem'.

 

In a recent conversation, Alan shared that the timing for this release "felt right."

 

After a year dedicated to songwriting, he amassed a collection that authentically represents his current life stage.

 

"When you have about 20 songs that fit together, it just makes sense," he noted.

 

"With the incredible fan support over the past couple of years, it's time to offer more than just singles."

 

The album is thoughtfully divided into two halves, each showcasing different facets of Alan's artistry.

 

The "Winston" side delves into personal, reflective tracks inspired by his life experiences, while "Salem" features his signature high-energy, feel-good songs.

 

Together, they paint a comprehensive picture of Alan as an artist, husband, and soon-to-be father.

 

Named after his beloved hometown, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, which he proudly calls the "best city in the world," the album's structure emerged naturally.

 

Alan realized his catalog seamlessly blends "out-of-the-box" tracks with deep, emotional narratives.

 

"It made sense to showcase both sides on this project," he explained.

 

"I couldn't imagine a debut without them. 'Winston' is reflective and true to my experiences, while 'Salem' brings the fun, party vibes. Together, they create something special."

 

Themes of family, love, and significant life milestones are woven throughout the album.

 

As Alan prepares for fatherhood with his wife, Hally, he reflects on his upbringing and the influences that shaped him.

 

His latest release, "Hard Acre," exemplifies classic country storytelling, capturing his emotions as he steps into this new chapter.

 

"I co-wrote it with Zach Kale, Derek Bahr, and Joseph Patton," Alan shared.

 

"We stumbled upon the title and envisioned an older man passing down a house to someone starting their family. It mirrors the stage of life I'm in."

 

Alan also pays tribute to his parents with songs like "Better Dad" and "Good Mama," and honors his hardworking grandfather in "La-Z-Boy."

 

"I love singing about my family," he admitted.

 

Recalling his grandfather's health struggles and cherished moments together, he said, "He had this chair he loved, and some of my favorite memories are sitting there, watching Carolina basketball games with him."

 

Whether through heartfelt tunes or lively anthems like "Greener Grass," "Take Bobby Home," or "Drunk Drink," this collection offers a mature perspective while delivering the energy fans expect.

 

WINSTON-SALEM TRACK LIST:

 

1. Roots

 

2. Fourth of July

 

3. La-Z-Boy

 

4. 5X7

 

5. Holy Ghost

 

6. Starting To Show

 

7. Better Dad

 

8. Good Mama

 

9. Hard Acre

 

10. Take A Life

 

11. Devil In My Mind

 

12. Plead The Fifth

 

13. Damn In Me

 

14. Dale Dickens (RIP)

 

15. BOS

 

16. Crazy Shady Uncle

 

17. Alive

 

18. Greener Grass

 

19. Take Bobby Home

 

20. Drunk Drink

 

With the album now available and a baby on the way, Alan is taking a break from touring to embrace this new phase of life.

 

He plans to return to the stage with a headline debut at Nashville's Ryman Auditorium on March 26, followed by the "To The Pub Tour," kicking off on April 17 in Dublin and continuing through Belfast, London, Manchester, and Glasgow.

 

Fans can look forward to experiencing the full spectrum of Alan's musical journey in these upcoming performances.