With a Yorkshire accent, an indie rock background, and a deep appreciation for classic country storytelling, Robin Cooper is not your typical country artist. But that’s exactly what makes him one of the most exciting new voices in the UK’s ever-growing country scene.
“I’m a Leeds-based country artist, and I make indie-infused, rocky country music,” he explains, kicking off our chat at a recent gig at Ron’s Honky Tonk in Hammersmith, London with characteristic humility and warmth. Cooper’s blend of Americana twang and northern grit offers something refreshingly original, a sound as shaped by British indie clubs as it is by Nashville radio.
From Brad Paisley to the Arctic Monkeys
Like many artists, Robin’s journey into country music started with a single spark. “Brad Paisley’s got to be the first one,” he says without hesitation. “He was the guy that got me into country music and playing guitar and singing and songwriting in general. He’s a brilliant guitar player… I love how quirky his lyricisms are and how he’s a bit off the beaten track.”
From there, it was a mix of modern country pop – “Florida Georgia Line” – and a crash course in the genre’s legends, thanks to his gran. “She introduced me to Waylon Jennings. I was like, ‘I listen to country music,’ and she went, ‘No, you don’t. Here’s some Waylon Jennings.’ I got educated very swiftly!”
But growing up in Leeds also meant being immersed in the city’s vibrant indie scene. Robin cites bands like Arctic Monkeys and Two Door Cinema Club as major influences, particularly their lyrical agility. “The quickfire lyrics and the style as well,” he explains. “But the thing I always come back to with country is the storytelling. There’s just no genre that does it better.”
A Guitar Hero in the Making
Robin’s first love was the guitar. “I was convinced I was gonna be a guitar superhero,” he laughs. Songwriting followed almost accidentally – a tongue-in-cheek number written at a teenage house party. “It was called ‘I Wasn’t That Drunk.’ It wasn’t very good, but I really enjoyed the process.”
Over time, songwriting became not just a creative outlet but a lifeline. “It’s a good thing to do if you’re sad or if you’re happy – just sit down and write a song. It’s a really nice thing to do, I think.”
His process remains fluid and open. “Sometimes it starts with lyrics, sometimes with a riff or a melody. I like writing on trains or buses… if I ever ignore you, I’m not being rude – my eyes are glazed over because I’m probably in songwriting mode!”
Finding His Voice, Live and in Collaboration
While Robin cut his teeth playing guitar in successful indie bands, going solo about a year and a half ago was a pivotal move. “There were some creative differences – I wanted to do more country. I’ve always wanted to do country.” Becoming a frontman has been a learning curve, but one he’s embracing: “The buzz of being on stage is just the best feeling in the world… it’s indescribable.”
He’s also found joy in co-writing, working closely with fellow rising artist Owen Morten. “When you really click with someone, it’s a really nice bond. It’s just a great day out – just happy to be here, to be honest.”
The Rise of UK Country
Robin is keenly aware of the rapid expansion of country music in the UK – and he’s thrilled to be part of it. “I remember being about 12 or 13 and not knowing anyone who listened to country music. Now we’ve got events like Ron’s Honky Tonk, Lil Nashville, and even Knocking Boots, a country nightclub in Leeds. The fact there’s a country nightclub now is crazy to me!”
He’s equally enthusiastic about the rise of domestic talent. “Jake O’Neill is having a great time at the moment. I’m really excited to see where he goes in the next year or two.”
Naturally, Jake would be Robin’s dream UK collaborator. “I kind of look up to him in a way,” he admits. Internationally, his wishlist leans toward songwriters rather than artists: “Ross Copperman, Shane McAnally, Craig Wiseman – I’d just love to see how their brains work.”
Looking Ahead
In the short term, Robin has his sights set on releasing two more singles and, for the first time, hitting the road. “I would love to tour. I’ve never toured properly – I’ve done a couple of shows in a row, but never the full thing. I’d love that whole experience of being on the road.”
Artist development is also a big priority. “I really want to improve my craft, particularly songwriting.” He’s been working with vocal coach and mentor Sarah Stead and is diving deep into how great songs are built. “I spend a lot of time just breaking songs down and learning how they work.”
Life Outside Music (Sort Of)
While Robin is deeply focused on his music, he finds plenty of inspiration in everyday life – particularly on nights out. “I love day drinking and going on nights out. When you’re with your mates, the sun’s out, you’ve got a beer in your hand… it’s just such a lovely expression of human nature.”
Leeds, unsurprisingly, is a big part of that vibe. “Oporto – hands down. It’s the best night out in Leeds. I did all my promo in there. They gave me free whiskey last time, so big shout out to Oporto.”
“What You See Is What You Get”
For fans just discovering Robin Cooper, he keeps things simple. “Someone said to me recently: ‘You’re a simple man. What you see is what you get.’ And that’s pretty spot on.” He adds with a grin, “If you ever see me at a gig or after a show, come say hi. And I like a pint!”
As UK country continues its meteoric rise, Robin Cooper stands out as an authentic, genre-blending artist whose heart belongs to both Leeds and Nashville. His passion for storytelling, sharp lyricism, and vibrant live presence mark him as one to watch – and one to raise a pint to.
Follow Robin Cooper on socials and keep an ear out for new music dropping later this year. Trust us – you’ll want to be along for the ride.
