INNISFAIL - It has been a wild and sensational ride for break-out country-rock artist Devin Cooper, who is no stranger to Innisfail and the surrounding area.
The talented singer and musician, a former Innisfail High School student, has been singing and performing in town and in the region for almost two decades.
However, 2023 has turned out to be a blockbuster year of transition for the rising star, whose success is now growing throughout the province and beyond.
In February, the 26-year-old landed an incredible seven nominations for the 2023 Country Music Alberta Awards (CMAA), making him the most nominated solo artist for this year.
Cooper followed that up the same month with the release of his first new music of the year; a song called The Other Guy and its accompanying official video.
“It’s about being careless and doing things on your own terms; letting your rebellious side come out without worrying what the repercussions might be, even if only for one night,” said Cooper at the time of its release.
And then came the announcement of the CMAA awards on April 2 at Calgary’s Grey Eagle Resort and Casino.
Cooper walked away proudly with the Horizon Male Artist of the Year.
“It is such an honour to be recognized by so many people I look up to in the Country Music Alberta community,” said Cooper in a statement provided to the Albertan. “Between my team and myself, we were nominated for seven awards for the work we’ve done over the past year, so to take home the big one, the Horizon Male Artist of the Year Award, it really feels like a win for all of us.”
While his musical success this year is gratifying for Cooper, his commitment to support others in need continues to be paramount.
Starting at the young age of seven he has been volunteering at regional continuing care facilities and hospitals, and still a regular visitor and performer.
Cooper continues to host his “Ride To Remember” charity event; a fundraiser consisting of a motorcycle ride and concert that has raised thousands of dollars in support of the Alzheimer Society of Calgary.
It was an event the young singer and musician launched in 2019 after watching a close family member struggle with the disease.
And even with his musical fame growing in recent years, Cooper is still often seen performing at various Innisfail events, such as Canada Day celebrations and even the downtown Market on Main.
