Introduce yourself & give us a small background on your musical history before you joined the current band your in & did you play any other instruments before you started playing guitar?
My name is korey cooper. I started playing piano when I was 9 & this has given me a solid foundation for all things musical. During my high school and college years, I played in different local bands. I played clubs, coffee shops, and on the praise team at church, in whatever role was needed. I joined Skillet in 1998, but didn't start playing guitar until 2002.
When did you first discover your love for music?
I have loved music for as long as I can remember. My 1st grade music teacher told my parents to get me into lessons. They asked what I wanted to play. I said guitar and piano. All the counsel to them was to start me on piano first, and so my journey began. I have always been introverted, and I truly feel most comfortable and understood when I'm playing music..it's an emotional and spiritual expression and safe place for me.
What’s it like being a female in the music industry?
I've always been kind of unaware of certain gender biases. When I was a freshman in high school, I played on the guys soccer team. I wasn't trying to make a point or break new ground, there simply wasn't a girls team. I feel the same way about my job. Women are so emotive and expressive, and can add a tremendous amount to any male dominated field, especially one that is so artistic.
Would you say its harder being a female in the music industry?
I don't think it's harder from a musical standpoint. Respect has to be earned either way. I think it's harder from a touring standpoint. Life on the road is just plain gross and uncomfortable. Living in a small space with a bunch of smelly guys, wondering when, if ever, you'll get a shower...these amongst many other circumstances would repel most women from this job.