Tempo Talks: A Conversation with Eric Cohen
THE RELEASE
Eric Cohen is a gifted emcee from Kansas City, Missouri. He is the driving force behind this extremely moving message. Eric Cohen established his particular musical voice after being influenced by musical legends such as Jimi Hendrix, Led Zeppelin, Janis Joplin, Stevie Ray Vaughn, Mac Miller, and Toby Mac. Eric devotes his time outside of music to a great cause, preaching regularly at a juvenile correctional center, where he makes a significant difference in the lives of troubled youngsters. While he aims to better himself and those around, his passionate expressiveness and personal connection to music provide a raw authenticity to his work that connects powerfully with audiences.
Eric Cohen's most recent song is an emotional cry from the heart that delves into the raw and delicate subject of suicide and the battle for survival. This recording, which was recorded in his basement and beautifully mixed and mastered by Uptown Productions, is a testimonial to the power of music as a conduit for personal healing and development. Eric's quest to overcome suicidal thoughts is inspiring, and his music serves as a light of hope for people who may be going through similar struggles. Eric Cohen is on a mission to share his message of perseverance and faith, with FM and satellite radio plays under his belt and future concerts at Faith Fest and Nehemiah Fest. "The suffering that was meant to bring me down is now weaponized for the glory of God," encapsulating the profound and redemptive nature of this release.
THE INTERVIEW
If you had to create a Mount Rushmore of inspiration, what four individuals molded the artist you are today?
Jimi Hendrix, Janis Joplin, Stevie Ray Vaughn, and Tupac. These are some of the individuals i grew up with listening to the most. I will add TobyMac on the tail end. Since i started walking with Christ, Toby's music has been a a huge inspiration.
Were there any specific experiences or events in your life that influenced the song's lyrics?
My life is full of suffering and adversity. Probably not too different than most people's lives. Through this adversity, i was given an option: Do let it consume me (which it did for a LONG time), or, do i use the sufferings in my own life to point to my Creator and His goodness (which is what i do now).
Can you share any interesting anecdotes about the song's development with your co-writers or producers?
I suppose my co writer is the Holy Spirit. When i sit down to right, it is the Holy Spirit working through me writing down the lyrics.
What was the biggest takeaway or lesson you learned while creating this song?
I was reminded that we all have sufferings. This life is not easy. But, if we know who to call out to (Jesus), then we can and will still feel peace and joy. There is still hope.
How has your recent growth as an artist influenced the direction of your future work?
It humbles me to think that i am allowed as an individual to be trusted with such a message. This keeps me focused on the present. I try my best not to dive too far ahead of myself. I just want to give hope in the darkness of this chaotic world. Whatever the Lord decides to do with me is up to Him.
KEEP UP WITH ERIC COHEN BELOW:
