Dana Cooper

"The Ghost of Tucumcari" Voted #1 Album of 2024 on Americana Highways Readers Poll.

Dana Cooper's musical journey began at the young age of 2 when his father would prop him on the bar to sing along with the jukebox. Coming from Missouri, Cooper was surrounded by the sounds of classic country and folk music from an early age. He quickly became enamored with the guitar and taught himself to play and to harmonize vocally by listening to records. By his teenage years, Cooper was performing in coffee houses and clubs around Kansas City, honing his skills as a singer, songwriter and guitarist.

 

In the 1970s, Cooper landed a record deal with Elektra Records and released his acclaimed self-titled debut album in 1972. Backed by renowned LA studio musicians "The Section," including Leeland Sklar and Russ Kunkel, the album showcased Cooper's lyrical depth and virtuoso guitar playing.

 

For over a decade, he was half of the highly acclaimed duo - The Shake Russell/Dana Cooper band, who garnered a large following in Texas as well as appearing on Austin City Limits. Through the 70s and 80s, he built his reputation on the club circuit while also collaborating with artists like Lyle Lovett, Kim Carnes, Susan Werner, Kim Richey, Hal Ketchum & more.

 

Over his 50+ year career, Cooper has amassed a catalog of 30+ albums and continues to tour actively.