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Exclusive Interview with Debbie Cochran

Debbie Cochran

About Debbie Cochran

Why country music ?
~ The sound of Country music branded my DNA at an early age. It’s natural for me. I have a “red dirt” country heart born in Alabama. Country music was my lullaby growing up. I can’t remember a day without traditional country music. Mom and Dad played their favorite 45’s and the radio would be tuned into WSM. I had my own “Make Believe Grand Ole Opry” behind closed doors. Country music is real life stories you can relate to, heart to heart, in a melody. I must admit, I always loved to dance to those funky grooves to other genres. But never forgot my Southern roots and that is where my songs come from (Home, Heartaches, Joy and Jesus).

If everything would be possible (waking the dead included) , which two people should sing the ultimate country duet?
~ I believe it has already happened. In 2014 Dolly Parton (Country) and Richie Sambora (Rock) performed a duet “Lay Your Hands on Me.” The performance was awesome. I also loved her duet with Brad Paisley “When I Get Where I’m Going.”

What song you ever recorded means the most to you and why?
~ “It’s Never Too Late” was the first to play on the radio. I remember my first meeting with my producer, Kent Wells. When Kent spoke the words “It’s Never Too Late” my theme song was born, and those dusty dreams of long ago became real. When the song was reviewed by renowned music critic, Robert K. Oermann, he gave me the DisCovery Award.

Who would you like to write a song for you?
~ Dolly Parton would be my choice. Grammy Savvy.

If you could turn back time to make only one change, what would you change?
~ My wheels are turning! Hindsight! I always felt music was a huge part of my soul. There’s no doubt I would have been more focused, not wasting a minute, on my future as a songwriter/recording artist/guitarist. That is who I was always meant to be. Today, I am experiencing my dream that was always underneath the surface. I don’t question the timing. I believe God’s timing is always right on time. Life isn’t perfect, but it sure is amazing. It is my song. I am so thankful for every minute, every breath I breathe, every time I laugh. I do love to laugh out loud and try hard not to cry. Through it all, I am stronger because of it.

What is the question interviewers never seem to ask you and…you wish they would? (Please provide your answer as well.)
~ What’s the funniest thing that ever happened to you that is still funny? It has happened several times in my life. I have a tendency to make grand entrances or exits by falling down stairways. This is true. I am entertainment for free. Just when you think the show is over, then I give an encore. First time it happened in a theatre, descending down the balcony watching “Old Yeller.” I also christened a tall stairway leaving a Las Vegas show with my future husband and his mother and father. I can only imagine what they were thinking. Also, the church stairway was another victim. There were many others. I usually dive off the small ones. Now, when I approach a stairway, I approach with caution. Especially if there is a crowd. Fortunately, no broken bones. Maybe I was supposed to be a stunt professional =)

Describe the ultimate recording studio (not the technique but the facilities)
~ I have recorded in two studios in Franklin, TN. Great vibes. Great acoustics. My producer, his staff and studio musicians make me feel as if I just arrived home for a family reunion. The entry seating area has comfy sofas to sink into as everyone arrives. Laughter echoes in the hallways. Dim lighting sets a peaceful mood, which helps me to relax. After appetizers, we gather around the sound board to begin the creative process. I can feel the bond the musicians have as they tune their personal instruments. Their gifted talent overwhelms me. When the music begins, the emotion swells in my heart. I feel as though I have arrived in music heaven. It’s perfect!

Johnny or June ?
~ I choose both. They were the depiction of together. They were soul mates. I love their legacy, their love story. They walked the line through the ups and downs creating beautiful music touching the world.

Are you still nervous before going on stage and if so, do you use any “rituals” to calm you nerves.
~ I do experience moments of anxiety before performing. I go through a mental list of what if’s speeding up my heart rate. Just before show time, I talk to myself, take some deep breaths and say a little prayer. When the music starts, I step out on stage, greet the welcome applause and somehow my anxiety diminishes.

What was the most memorable day in your musical career and tell us why.
~ There have been so many special moments. My first release “It’s Never Too Late” earned the DisCovery Award given by Robert K. Oermann, renowned Nashville music critic. It was an amazing feeling when I heard the news. The first time I heard the song on the radio, I thought my husband had the stereo playing. It took a minute for it to soak in, then the tears came. Also, I wrote a song “Eyewitness” which received an honorable mention in the 2014 New Artist Search presented by Singing News, the largest Christian music publication in the country. I was so excited and honored to be considered a top new artist at this point in my life. It is a dream come true. I feel blessed to have received recognition for my songs. I am so thankful for every moment.

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